Adults with receding gums are not uncommon. When your gums recede, your teeth appear longer, and your tooth roots may be exposed. This can result in gum sensitivity and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Your dentist can treat receding gums and keep the condition from worsening. Adults may experience receding gums as a result of years of rough tooth brushing. Gum disease can cause receding gums in some cases. Other causes include improper tooth positioning, misaligned teeth or a misaligned bite, teeth grinding or clenching, and tobacco use.
What is Gum Disease?
Plaque contains bacteria, which irritates your gums. Plaque can build up on the teeth and produce toxins if it is not removed daily. Toxins like this cause gum inflammation. If left untreated, this inflammatory process has the potential to destroy gum tissue. Gums will separate from teeth, forming pockets. The pockets then collect more bacteria, exacerbating the problem. Gum disease is typically discovered during a dental examination and can be treated by a dentist or dental hygienist. Receding gums are usually not painful. Tooth sensitivity may occur in some people. Your teeth may become loose if periodontal disease is not treated. In people over the age of 40, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss.
Can Receding Gums Be Fixed?
Good oral hygiene can help to prevent receding gums. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent receding gums. Brush your teeth gently to moderately with small, circular motions – no rough, back-and-forth brushing. You may experience sensitivity due to exposed tooth roots if your gums have receded. Your dentist may advise you to use a topical medication at home. The medication can help to reduce root sensitivity while also protecting root surfaces from decay. A dentist may be able to graft tissue to cover exposed root surfaces and prevent sensitive gum tissue from receding further in some cases. This is known as gum grafting. Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that a dentist or periodontist performs. The dental professional will cover exposed root surfaces with grafted oral tissue during the procedure. Gum grafting improves tooth appearance while restoring gum health and reducing discomfort. You can look forward to healthy gums and a bright smile in the years to come if you brush and floss daily and visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Dynamic Dental Care, 10010 N Division St, Spokane, WA 99218 | (509) 466-2587 | dynamicdentalcare.com | 10/10/2024 | Related Phrases: dentist Spokane WA |
Adults with receding gums are not uncommon. When your gums recede, your teeth appear longer, and your tooth roots may be exposed. This can result in gum sensitivity and, in severe cases, tooth loss. Your dentist can treat receding gums and keep the condition from worsening. Adults may experience receding gums as a result of years of rough tooth brushing. Gum disease can cause receding gums in some cases. Other causes include improper tooth positioning, misaligned teeth or a misaligned bite, teeth grinding or clenching, and tobacco use.