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Introduction Gum Recession
Gum recession occurs when the margin of gum tissue around the teeth pulls back to expose more of the crown or root of a tooth. Receding gums can form gaps or pockets between the tooth and gums allowing the build-up of disease-causing bacteria.
If the pockets remain untreated, the surrounding tissue and bone structure can be compromised, and tooth loss can occur.
Gum recession is a widespread dental condition and can affect all ages.
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Symptoms of Receding Gums
Many people are unaware they have receding gums because it occurs gradually, so watch for the following signs:
- Teeth that appear longer due to gum tissue loss.
- Swollen gums.
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing.
- Discomfort when chewing food.
- Loose teeth due to the breakdown of connective tissue and bone.
- Exposed roots which are sensitive to temperature.
- Bad breath due to a build-up of bacteria in the gum pockets.
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Causes of Gum Recession
Periodontal disease and poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum recession. However, gum recession can also occur in patients with proper oral hygiene habits. Some other causes of gum recession include:
- Physical wear and tear of the gum tissue are one of the main reasons for recession. Vigorous tooth brushing or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can adversely impact your gum tissue. Always use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush your teeth.
- Over-brushing teeth cause receding gums. This type of recession typically affects the left side of the mouth more because most people use the toothbrush in their right hand which puts more pressure on the left gums.
- Other physical features that cause gum tissue to recede are tongue and lip piercings, damage from dental treatment, and misaligned teeth.
- Smoking can cause a sticky plaque which makes gum tissue recede.
- Your genetic make-up can make you more susceptible to periodontal disease which causes gum recession.
- Changes in oestrogen levels during a woman’s life can increase gum sensitivity and make her vulnerable to receding gums.
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Available Treatment
Mild cases of gum recession can be treated using scaling and root planning by a hygienist in Knutsford. This treatment removes plaque and tartar that is built up around the root area. Smoothing over exposed root can make it more difficult for bacteria to attach itself to the tooth.
Antibiotics are used to kill any remaining bacteria to prevent future infections.
Deep cleaning cannot treat the receding gums if an excess loss of gum tissues and bone loss occurs. Gum surgery may be required to prevent the gaps from getting bigger.
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Natural Remedies
There are several at home remedies to treat receding gum tissue. A few of these remedies can be done daily to help prevent issues with gum tissue.
- Drinking green tea every day improves the attachment of gums to the teeth and reduces tissue bleeding.
- Rinsing your mouth with sesame oil or coconut oil daily can remove harmful toxins from your mouth and prevent oral diseases.
- Eating foods rich in vitamin C can help prevent receding gums from inflammation.
- Applying aloe vera gel to inflamed gums can prevent gaps from worsening.
- Using antibacterial mouthwashes can promote healing of inflamed gums while getting rid of the bacteria that cause infections.
- Flossing reduces bacteria and plaque that can help fight gum diseases that may cause receding gums.
Preventive Measures
Regular dental check-ups are important. Your dentist measures the distance between the bottom of each tooth and the gumline to keep track of any changes over time. Cosmetic dentists can help find the cause of your gum recession and recommend ways to prevent it from worsening. Gum disease is preventable and even reversible if it is caught in the early stages. Your hygienist can teach you the proper way to clean your teeth if you think you are brushing too harshly.
Brushing twice a day, flossing once daily, and using mouthwash are also important ways to stop or slow receding gums. Proper daily oral health can improve the overall health of your teeth and gums, giving you a healthy-looking smile.
Established in July 2018, Superior Smiles is a new Knutsford dental clinic in Cheshire with extensive experience we offer wide range of dental treatments for all ages.
