What is Receding Gums
Causes of Receding Gums
If you notice your gums are getting worse, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. This is because if you let receding gums go untreated, they can become even more advanced and lead to tooth loss.
Gum recession is caused by a number of factors including poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease. These bacterial gum infections destroy the gum tissue and supporting bone that hold teeth in place.
Patients who are prone to gum disease may need regular deep cleaning treatments, such as scaling and root planing. During these procedures, tartar is removed from both above and below the gum line, which makes it more difficult for bacteria to build up.
Experiencing receding gums in 20s can be quite unexpected. Other factors that can contribute to receding gums include smoking, genetics, aging, and certain medical conditions. A dry mouth, which is caused by certain medications, can also increase the risk of gum recession because it makes it harder for saliva to flow properly. Despite the age, addressing these factors promptly is crucial to prevent further gum recession and maintain optimal oral health. Seeking professional guidance and adopting a meticulous oral care routine can significantly mitigate the impact of these factors on gum health.
Receding gums can make your teeth appear longer and can be uncomfortable to touch if they are exposed. They can also cause tooth sensitivity, and in severe cases, tooth loss.
Why Am I Getting Receding Gums
If your gums seem to be getting worse, it is very important to see a dentist as soon as possible. This is because gum recession can lead to infection, sensitivity, tooth decay, and tooth loss if it is left untreated.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) is the most common cause of receding gums. This is because it causes the gum tissue to pull back from your teeth, exposing their roots.
Gum disease can also lead to inflammation and damage to the supporting bone structure, resulting in a condition known as periodontitis. Symptoms of periodontitis include red, swollen, or bleeding gums and the buildup of sticky plaque that forms between your teeth and gums.
Genetics – Some people are more susceptible to gum recession than others. This is especially true for those who have a family history of gum disease.
Bad Oral Hygiene –
A lack of regular brushing and flossing can make it more difficult to remove bacteria, plaque, and food particles from your mouth. In addition, smoking or using tobacco products can increase your risk of developing gum disease and receding gums.
Natural Ways To Help Receding Gums
If you’re dealing with receding gums, it may be time to get help. There are a number of natural ways to help your gums heal and prevent further problems.
For starters, make sure you’re brushing and flossing twice a day. This is one of the best ways to keep plaque at bay and reduce your risk for gum disease.
A saltwater rinse can also be helpful. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a cup of water and use it to rinse your mouth two or three times each day.
Aloe Vera Gel –
Applying aloe vera gel to affected gums can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. It can also repair damaged tissue and improve oral health.
Turmeric Gel –
Adding turmeric to aloe vera gel increases the effectiveness of this remedy. It has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve gum pain, inflammation, and bacterial growth in the mouth.
Oil Pulling – Swirling a tablespoon of coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil around in your mouth for a few minutes can help remove plaque and kill bacteria. It can also reduce bad breath and prevent cavities.
Receding Gums Getting Worse
Receding gums are an incredibly common condition that affects many people. It is an unpleasant and unsightly change that can compromise the health of a person’s smile.
It is also a risk factor for periodontal disease and tooth loss. Fortunately, there are treatment options available to treat receding gums.
A dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. They can also perform soft tissue grafts, a surgical procedure that replaces damaged or missing gum tissue.
Brushing and flossing are the most important oral hygiene procedures for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. A dentist can show you how to do this correctly and advise on which type of toothbrush is best for your mouth.
Smoking is another risk factor for receding gums, as it can wear down the tissue on the teeth and gums. A person’s genes also play a role in their risk for gum disease and tooth loss.
Minor gum recession can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and by avoiding smoking. However, if the recession is severe or has been left untreated for long periods of time, it can cause the roots of a person’s teeth to become exposed and susceptible to bacteria and infection.
When to see a dentist
Receding gums can be a sign of an underlying oral health problem. A dentist can diagnose this issue and provide treatment to restore your smile.
When you see your dentist regularly – at least once every six months – they can monitor your oral health and spot any problems early on, before they get worse. This helps prevent issues like receding gums, which can be dangerous to your teeth, mouth, and jawbones.
Your dental professional will be able to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend treatment, such as scaling and root planing. These procedures scrape away plaque from the tooth and roots, helping gum tissue heal.
Patients who have advanced gum disease can also have a procedure called flap surgery, which removes bacteria from deep under the gums. This surgery will help reduce the appearance of receding gums and protect your tooth and bone from future damage.
Your dentist can also use a procedure called soft tissue surgery, or gum graft, to replace lost gum tissue. These procedures are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they can also help prevent further recession of the gums and protect your teeth and jawbone from future damage.
Can receding gums grow back?
There are a number of things that can cause your gums to recede. These include poor oral hygiene, aging, and genetics.
Receding gums can also be caused by periodontal disease, which is a buildup of bacteria and plaque on the teeth. If the plaque isn’t removed, it can irritate the gum tissue and lead to more recession and pockets in the gums.
If you have periodontal disease, your dentist can perform a procedure called scaling and root planing to remove any bacteria in the small spaces between your teeth and gums. This can stop or prevent further recession.
If you don’t have periodontal disease, mild gum recession can often be fixed with a stringent oral healthcare routine. This includes thorough brushing and flossing daily, avoiding abrasive toothpaste, and maintaining regular dental cleanings and exams.
Conclusion
Some of the best ways to prevent or treat gum disease include good oral hygiene and frequent dental visits. Regular checkups and cleanings can remove plaque and tartar, which can help reduce gum inflammation and bacterial growth.
Brushing and flossing properly is also a great way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. By using a soft toothbrush with rounded bristles and a circular motion, you can remove food particles and plaque that may be hiding between your teeth. The best part is that you don’t need to spend a lot of money or time doing so.
In addition to the good old-fashioned brushing and flossing, some of the more innovative and effective ways to treat and prevent gum disease involve technology and science. This includes such innovations as mouthguards that prevent you from grinding or clenching your teeth while sleeping, laser dentistry, and 3D imaging to detect early stages of gum disease before they become a full-blown problem. The best way to avoid a bad case of gum disease is to take care of your teeth and gums by eating a well-balanced diet, quitting smoking, and avoiding habits that damage your gum tissue.
Don Gilbert is a revered figure in the fields of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Health Education, celebrated for his outstanding credentials and qualifications. And aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Don Gilbert’s impressive background, emphasizing his pivotal role in promoting children’s oral health and educating families about proper dental care.