Gum recession is a dental condition that occurs when a person’s gums recede from a tooth, exposing its root. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are over 200,000 cases of receding gums in the United States each year.
Receding gums are a significant dental health concern because they create space between the teeth and the gums. This leaves the teeth where the gums have receded vulnerable to harmful bacteria. These bacteria can cause tooth decay, infections or in some cases, tooth loss.
When it comes to serious oral health issues like gum recession, prevention is essential. People who want to make sure their teeth and gums are as healthy as possible should note the causes of gum recession in order to take steps to avoid this condition.
Here are the main causes of receding gums:
One of the leading causes of receding gums is gum disease, which is often a result of subpar oral hygiene. People who do not brush or floss their teeth regularly or schedule visits to the dentist to remove harmful plaque and tartar build-up are especially prone to gum recession.
The best way for individuals to lower their risk of gum recession is to brush their teeth, floss and use an antiseptic mouthwash every day. It is also important to schedule regular dentist appointments so dentists can remove calculus from the mouth and monitor gum health.
Some individuals have a higher likelihood of developing gum recession because of the way their teeth are positioned in their mouth, the size of their gums or other genetic factors outside of their control.
People who have a predisposition to gum recession should make sure to visit their dentist frequently to monitor the health of their gums. This way, if any signs of gum recession are detected, the dentist can prevent the problem from escalating further.
While vigilant brushers may think that they are doing their part to reduce their risk of developing receding gums, they may be causing more harm than good. Overbrushing or brushing teeth using too much force increases the wear and tear of the gums. This can increase the chances of a person developing gaps between their teeth and gums.
Options for preventing gum recession from this physical wear are to avoid sugary drinks that tear down the enamel of a tooth, use toothbrushes with soft or medium bristles and brush teeth using a non-aggressive technique.
Sometimes people do not realize that their gums have receded until they are experiencing sensitivity and pain from infection or tooth decay. In these cases where it is too late to prevent gum recession, there are treatment options available.
People who suspect that they are experiencing gum recession should talk to their dentist about minimally invasive gum recession treatments. These treatment options can help prevent further damage and reduce teeth and gum sensitivity.
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