Gums help keep your teeth in place.  But if your gums begin to recede, gaps can develop between the teeth and gums, causing dental problems.  One of the biggest problems is your becoming loose and even falling out. This problem affects nearly half the adult population over 30. This percentage increases for people over 65.

Causes of Dental Recession

Braces – As braces realign the teeth, it can sometimes cause gum recession.

Brushing too hard – Aggressively brushing your teeth causes many problems. Use a soft toothbrush and leave the serious cleaning to the pros.

Bruxism – This is when you grind your teeth. If you do this often, it can irritate your gums until they pull away from your teeth.

Diabetes – Diabetes can keep nutrients from reaching the gums. This weakens the bones holding teeth in place.

Genetics – Sometimes, you can do nothing to avoid receding gums. If they are in your genetics, being proactive in your dental care and talking to your dentist is necessary.

High Frenal attachment – The frena membrane attaches the muscles that move your lips and cheeks. If your frena is too high, they can tug at your gums and cause a recession.

Periodontal disease – Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can cause swollen, irritated gums. If left untreated, it can cause bacterial buildup, inflammation, infection, and gum recession.

Poor dental hygiene –Failing to brush and floss daily leaves behind bacteria. This bacteria becomes plaque. The longer plaque is on your teeth, the thicker it becomes, making it more difficult to remove.

Smoking – This weakens the body’s ability to fight infection, so gum disease is easier for the mouth to succumb to.

Vitamin C deficiency – Vitamin C is essential to many functions of the body. Several studies have found that people with low amounts of vitamin C are more prone to gum recession. Scientists have also found that smokers and those exposed to second smoke have lower levels of vitamin C.

Treatment for Gum Recession

Braces – Yes, braces can sometimes cause gum recession. But sometimes, the best approach is to let the orthodontic work happen. When the tooth realignment has occurred, the gum may correct itself over time.  In cases where gums do not adjust, a gum graft may become necessary.

Dental Bonding – Depending on the severity, the recession can often be camouflaged with tooth-colored resin. The resin covers the exposed tooth root so that it is less noticeable.

Topical antibiotics – Should periodontal disease cause the recession, your dentist or periodontist may prescribe an antibiotic. Your dentist may also work with you to help you develop better oral health habits.

Scaling and planning – This deep dental cleaning is done under local anesthesia. The process removes bacteria that has built up under the gum line.

Gun recession is not something to ignore. If you suspect your gums have begun to recede, call our office for an appointment as soon as possible.