Health

Why Do Gums Recede, and How Can You Prevent It?

Are your gums wearing away or pulling back, exposing more of the tooth, maybe even the tooth’s root? Gum recession is a significant dental health threat. It results in gaps/pockets between the gum line and teeth, creating a perfect environment for bacteria build-up. If Frisco gum recession remains untreated, it can damage the teeth’s bone structures and supporting tissues and, in worst cases, cause tooth loss.

Gum recession is a common problem, and the worst part is that most people don’t realize they have it until it has taken a toll on their oral health. This is since it happens gradually with little or no readily noticeable signs. Among the early tells is spotting a tooth that looks longer than normal or tooth sensitivity. As you strive to maintain good oral health, understanding the common reasons gums recede is essential, helping you take relevant measures to keep it at bay. Among the factors that contribute to gum recession includes:

Poor dental care

Brushing and flossing are at the heart of good oral hygiene. Nonetheless, your hygiene measures could be the reason your gums are receding. Aggressive brushing, for instance, is wrong. It can contribute to gum recession since it causes the enamel to wear away.

If your hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, is inadequate, it also contributes to gum recession. Poor hygiene leads to plaque accumulation that hardens and turns into tartar, causing the gums to recede. The film can’t be removed with your standard hygiene measures. You need professional cleaning, which is not a routine for many people.

Improving your dental care regime helps prevent gum recession. Gently brush your teeth, use safer products, and include professional cleaning in your routine.

Bad habits

Tobacco, whether chewed or smoked, can cause gum recession. This is because it leaves a sticky plaque that is hardly removable through routine brushing and flossing. If you can’t stop the habit, regular professional cleaning is advised.

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a habit that increases gum recession risk. The tricky part is that it mostly happens unconsciously, especially in your sleep. The excessive pressure on the teeth leads to gum recession, among other dental problems. You can address the problem by managing stress, a factor that increases the chances of teeth grinding or clenching. Investing in a mouth guard is also helpful.

Crooked teeth

Crooked teeth affect your bite. When the bite is misaligned, it causes more force on your jawbone and gums, causing the recession. You can address the malocclusion by investing in orthodontics, including clear aligners or metal braces. Besides aligning the bite, you also eliminate crooked teeth challenges such as when brushing, your speech, and your smile.

Piercings

Piercings are great, but when in the mouth, they increase the risks of gum recession. Wearing the jewelry in the mouth, whether on your tongue or lip, affects your gum tissue as they rub and irritate it, causing it to wear away.

Gum disease

Periodontitis is the biggest culprit of gum recession. The gum disease, a bacterial infection, destroys the gum tissues and supporting bone holding your teeth in place, causing gum recession. Maintaining a good oral health routine and seeking immediate dental care if you suspect you have gum disease is advisable, not just to address gum recession.

Concerns such as your genes or hormonal fluctuations can also cause gum recession. A routine dental checkup is among the most effective preventative measures that can help you avoid or treat gum recession and other dental concerns. Visit Lone Star Dental Care for more information on gum recession, prevention, and treatment options.