How To Recognize Signs of Gum Recession?

Gingival recession is a term for a situation where gums begin to shrink or wear down around the teeth. It is a very common and treatable oral malady, and a major reason why this condition is so prevalent is that many people who are experiencing it may not even know it, especially since this is a gradual occurrence.

What is the Gum Recession?

Gum recession can be described as a scenario in which a patient’s gums recede or start to pull back from the patient’s teeth. This means that as the gums pull back further, the tooth’s crown becomes more or wholly exposed. This, as a consequence, puts the tooth into more wear and bacteria, which causes tooth decay as well as other dental issues. Below are some of the causes of gum recession:

• Tobacco product usage
• Teeth clenching or grinding
• Aggressive tooth brushing
• Genetic predisposition
• Gum disease

Why Do Gums Recede?

• Genetics: At least one person in every three is a carrier
  There is evidence that incorrect teeth brushing can harm the gums.
• Tobacco products cause it.
• Bruxism, that is, grinding and clenching of teeth during the day or at night, leads to its development.

Signs of Receding Gums

• Tooth Sensitivity
  The common sign of this condition is when the teeth become more sensitive to sweet foods and icy beverages. The inflammation of the gums causes the tooth root to be sensitive to both hot and cold foods and liquids.
• Longer Teeth
  If you feel that your teeth are longer in size than they used to be, this is a sign of receding gums. Gum tissue that has receded somewhere leaves some part of the tooth exposed, thus making it seem like the tooth is longer.
• Visible Roots
  Other symptoms associated with retractive gingival margins include the exposure of the roots of the teeth. When the gums pull back, the roots of the teeth are visible, and in most cases, they may look darker or more yellow than the rest of the tooth. You may also observe tiny recessions at the level of the gums.
• Bleeding Gums
  If you experience any bleeding from your gums, either while brushing or when flossing, it may be an indication of gum recession. Where they rub against the teeth, they degenerate, becoming thinner and prone to bleed when they recede.
• Loose Teeth
  In worst-case scenarios, more gum advancement could lead to teeth shifting and loosening. This is because the gums hold the teeth in place, and where they pull back, the teeth can easily become wobbly.
• Bad Breath
  If you have had bad breath for a long time, you could suffer from gum retraction. When gums pull back, they form gaps between the teeth and the gums, into which bacteria can harbor, causing stinking breath.

If you spot any sign of the mentioned issues, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. If you have such symptoms, seek professional dental treatment as soon as possible to avoid worsening the situation.

Treatment Of Receding Gums

Treatment of receding gums varies depending on the extent of the process. In some patients, a severe form may be managed through better oral hygiene and regular dental prophylaxis. However, more severe cases may require treatments such as:

• Scaling and root planing:
  It involves a non-surgical procedure where calculus and stains on the teeth and their roots are professionally cleaned. It can also help encourage the reattachment of gum tissue and prevent additional recession.
• Gum grafting:
  This is a reconstructive dental surgery where tissue is transplanted from one part of the mouth and is grafted on the area with exposed roots. It may reduce sensitivity and enhance the type of tissue in the gums.
• Medications:
  A dentist may prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwash to help control the bacterial infection affecting the gum and bones.

Preventing Gum Recession

Preventive measures can be taken to prevent eventual gum recession when enjoying proper gum health. Here is how you can prevent gum recession:

• Brush Properly: Avoid brushing your teeth with a hard-bristled brush. Brush them in circular motions. Do not brush too hard or use a toothbrush with stiff bristles, as this can lead to gum shrinkage or receding gums.
• Floss Daily: Dental flossing reduces the accumulation of bacterial deposits on the surfaces of the teeth, in between the teeth, and along the gums. It also protects against gum disease, which is a major factor in gum deterioration.
• Use Mouthwash: Use an over-the-counter antimicrobial to help eliminate the bacteria in the mouth and promote healthy gums. The recommended brands of mouthwash, or the ones formulated for gum diseases, are ideal for oral washing.
• Maintain Regular Dental Check-ups: Clean your teeth and oral cavity through recommended check-ups by dental practitioners at specific intervals. General dental check-ups allow your dentist to identify early signs of gum recessions or gum diseases and take necessary action.
• Quit Tobacco Use: Tobacco use and smoking, in particular, are very risky for gums and can also result in the gums receding. Especially stopping tobacco product use can lead to an improved state of your mouth and gum line and a reduced risk of further exposure.
• Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding: If you have bruxism – that is if you habitually grind or clench your teeth – consult your dentist about possible therapy. Tooth clenching is a particularly dangerous habit because it may cause gums to recede.
• Address Misaligned Teeth or Bite Issues: Patients with improper tooth alignment or bite problems should see an orthodontist for treatment to realign their teeth and, therefore, reduce the excessive force exerted on gums.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat greens and fresh foods, including many fruits and vegetables and whole-grain foods, to have a healthy mouth. Reduce the consumption of sugar and related products such as sodas, which may cause gum diseases and dental cavities.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress depletes the immune system and enhances one’s susceptibility to periodontal diseases. Stress should also be managed; this can be done by following stress management skills such as exercising, meditating, and engaging in other human activities that will help in the general well-being of a person, including the mouth’s gums.

Thus, if you include those measures into your everyday practice and don’t neglect regular visits to a dentist, you will have no problems with gum recession and will keep your gums healthy.

Wrapping It Up

Gingival recession is a widespread oral disease that may result in different manifestations such as tooth sensitivity, increased tooth length, visible teeth roots, gum bleeding, tooth shifting, and unpleasant breath. These are indications that you should visit your dentist at Lytle Dental for an assessment and follow the necessary procedure. Unfortunately, you have been unable to maintain optimum oral hygiene; nevertheless, if you exercise even a little diligence, you won’t have to worry about further deterioration of your teeth or gums.