Maintaining the health of your gums is part of taking care of your oral health. Receding gums, where gum tissue begins to pull away from the surface of your teeth, can be caused by a number of factors. The buildup of bacteria can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of gum disease and receding gums.
Learn more about periodontal treatment services and what causes receding gums by contacting Columbia Smiles today.
Common Causes of Receding Gums
What makes the gums pull away from the teeth? Genetic factors and lifestyle choices can all contribute to periodontal issues. Some individuals are more likely than others to develop a problem with receding gums. For example, as people age, their gum tissue becomes thinner due to wear and tear. The majority of seniors have receding gums on at least one of their teeth. If you know that you are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, you can work to prevent gum recession.
There are several other causes of receding gums. These include the following:
- Gum disease – Inflammation of the gums can cause them to recede
- Brushing too hard – Brush with a gentle hand in order to avoid irritation
- Poor oral health – Not brushing and flossing often enough or with good technique can contribute to the buildup of plaque
- Smoking – Tobacco use can diminish your body’s ability to fight infection, including gum disease
Avoiding the above causes of receding gums can help you prevent this issue. By maintaining good oral health habits and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
It’s important to try to prevent gum recession. Your gums protect your teeth, and if they recede, the roots of your teeth are susceptible to decay and other issues. And once the gums pull away from the teeth, it’s not possible for them to grow back. While your dentist can provide periodontal services to help promote good gum health, there are a few habits you can implement to promote your overall oral health.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle motions when brushing your teeth
- Floss regularly to remove plaque in hard-to-reach places
- Brush at least twice a day and after meals if possible
- Avoid smoking
- Swap out sugary drinks like soda for water or coffee to avoid the buildup of plaque
Additionally, visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings and exams. They can spot the beginning of gum recession before you are aware of the problem. They might also recommend products and techniques to promote good oral health.
If your gums are receding, contact a dentist that specializes in periodontics, the branch of dentistry that deals with the gums. They might recommend treatments and procedures to help protect your teeth and gums. For example, removable gum veneers and even surgery can help keep the problem of receding gums from getting worse.
Contact Columbia Smiles if You Have Receding Gums
If you have receding gums or are concerned about developing this condition, make an appointment with your dentist today. An experienced dentist can determine the best course of action and help you improve your oral health.
At Columbia Smiles, we provide a variety of dental services to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. These include the following:
- General dentistry services, including cleanings and exams
- Diagnostic dentistry services, including wisdom teeth removal and trauma services
- Cosmetic dentistry services, including teeth whitening and dental veneers
Contact the Columbia Smiles team today to make an appointment. Call 410.690.4855 to learn more about how we can help you prevent receding gums.
