Receding gums: Causes and solutions
Receding gums are a common dental problem, usually affecting those who are 40+, although younger adults can also be affected. Painful and often a cause of concern for those suffering, it’s wise to get the problem looked over and take action before your receding gums begin to cause more problems. With this in mind, we’re sharing our top dental advice on causes of and solutions for receding gums – helping you to get healthier, pain-free gums in no time!
What are receding gums?
Gingival recession, or gum recession, is what happens when gum tissue is recessed, exposing the roots of the teeth. The roots are usually sensitive, which can cause pain when eating and brushing.
Receding gums don’t necessarily indicate poor dental hygiene either. They can be caused by any number of habits, from the way you brush to grinding your teeth at night. Because of this, treatment is usually dependent on the cause of the problem – solving the issue that’s causing your receding gums in the first place.
Cause #1 Brushing technique
There’s a fine line between brushing and scrubbing. Brushing too hard or using a hard bristled toothbrush can destroy enamel and irritate and inflame the gums. This causes recession along the gum line, which will worsen with consistent poor brushing habits.
Solution: Use a soft bristle brush and ask your dentist for tips on how to best minimise further irritation to your gums.
Cause #2 Flossing technique
While it’s great that you’ve made flossing a part of your daily routine, it’s important that you use the proper technique. Aggressive flossing will irritate the gums – causing discomfort and recession.
Solution: If you’re not sure how best to floss your teeth, ask your dentist. Remember, you only need to floss once daily – so don’t go overboard either.
Cause #3 Genetics
Like most health issues, the chances of gum recession are also down to your genetics. If on, or both of your parents have gum recession, you’re at a higher risk of having receding gums too.
Solution: Catching the problem early is key in this situation. Your dentist will be able to advise on what you can do to protect your gums and offer professional dental treatment should it be required.
Cause #4 Teeth alignment
We all chase the perfect smile – the benefits of which are not only aesthetic. Misaligned or poorly positioned teeth can also cause a number of dental problems, including receding gums.
Solution: We offer a variety of solutions to correct poorly positioned teeth. You can find out more about these orthodontic treatments here. Your dentist might also recommend a regular deep clean of your teeth to prevent further problems from occurring.
Cause #5 Grinding teeth
Yet more proof that your stressful lifestyle isn’t doing you any favours. Grinding your teeth, which is otherwise known as Bruxism, causes the teeth to be pushed against the delicate bone that houses the teeth. This pressure causes the bone to recede from around the roots and the gum to recede as a result.
Solution: If your receding gums are causing real issues, your dentist may advise you wear a special gum shield retainer at night. This will prevent further damage from occurring, as well as relieve the headaches you get from grinding your teeth.
If your receding gums are causing you problems why not book an appointment to see your AP Smilecare dentist today? You can contact us on 01254 297 000.
Do you have receding gums? If so, what have you done to prevent the problem from worsening? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @APSmilecare