Gum recession refers to a condition in which the gum tissue pulls back or wears away, exposing a tooth’s root. Receding gums are one of the most common periodontal diseases brought about by poor oral hygiene. This condition can expose a person to the risk of infections because it allows bacteria to accumulate. Most people do not know the causes of receding gums and may not identify that they have the condition as the recession occurs gradually. Allow Splendid Dental Bellaire to answer any questions you have and give you some more insight into the causes of receding gums by calling 713-244-7797.
Causes of Receding Gums
One of the most common causes of receding gums is poor hygiene practices. However, people who observe proper dental hygiene measures may also be prone to this condition. For instance, some genetic factors such as gum thickness and the position of one’s teeth may be receding gums predisposing factors. Additionally, brushing teeth aggressively or using a toothbrush that has hard bristles can damage the gums. However, this form of recession mainly affects a specific side of the mouth. For example, a right-handed person is likely to put pressure and damage the mouth’s left side.
Changes in hormone levels, especially during menopause or pregnancy, may also increase gum sensitivity and vulnerability. Moreover, people who smoke tobacco cigarettes may develop plaque, which attracts disease-causing bacteria. In some cases, clenching and grinding teeth may exert excessive force on the teeth and lead to gum recession. Other common causes or receding gums are delicate gum tissue, crooked teeth, damage from a dental procedure, and tongue piercings.
Symptoms of Receding Gums
Gum recession exposes the tooth roots, which causes increased sensitivity to cold and heat. Moreover, a person may notice changes in the appearance of their mouth and tooth structure. Such changes may include elongated teeth and an increase in the size of gaps between the teeth. Receding gums may also cause gum bleeding during brushing and flossing. A person can also experience bad breath due to the accumulation of bacteria between the teeth and gum.
One may also experience pain along the gum line, and in some cases, the gum can become red and swollen. Moreover, the teeth may become loose and wiggly due to decreased anchorage. Receding gums may also lead to the exposure of teeth roots and cause tooth loss.
Treatment for Receding Gums
Mild cases of gum recession do not require specialized treatment. In most cases, a dentist can advise a person on the preventive measures they can apply to avoid extensive harm to the gum. Such measures include using a soft-bristled toothbrush, properly flossing every day, and avoiding over-brushing. However, severe gum recession may require immediate medical attention. For instance, one can use desensitizing agents to reduce the sensitivity of the exposed part of the tooth root. A dentist may also cover the exposed portion of the tooth using composite resins. This procedure is also known as composite restoration and helps fill the gaps between the teeth.
Another way to treat receding gums is by using pink composite or porcelain. This material possesses the same color as the gums and is useful in filling the gaps left by receded gums. A dentist may also use a removable gum veneer made of silicone or acrylic to replace the damaged gum tissue. One may also undergo dental surgery using graft tissues to treat a severe case of this condition. Other treatment methods that are effective in curing receding gums are:
- Orthodontics
- Topical antibiotic gels
- Enzyme suppressants
- Antimicrobial mouthwash
If you have receding gums, finding prompt treatment is critical. Doing so can save the appearance of your smile. To discuss your treatment options for your receding gums, please contact Splendid Dental Bellaire today.
Prevent Receding Gums Now with Splendid Dental Bellaire
Identifying the signs and symptoms of receding gums will help you to seek medical attention. At Splendid Dental Bellaire, we provide a wide variety of cosmetic and general dentistry services, including:
- Periodontic treatment
- Dental exams
- Dental cleanings
- Teeth whitening services
- Ridge augmentation services
We can help you treat receding gums using specialized procedures such as oral surgery. Moreover, we educate our patients on the causes of receding gums and the measures they can use to prevent it. Call Splendid Dental Bellaire today at 713-244-7797, or contact us online to book an appointment for specialized dental care.
