Receding gums occur when the gum and bone in the mouth begin to move away from the teeth. Similar to the hair line receding, this happens with age however there are certain measures which can be taken to prevent this from happening and to treat the issue one suffers from it.
Gums may recede due to old age as well as through over aggressive brushing, inadequate brushing and flossing, bruxism (grinding of the teeth), or gum disease.
One can try and prevent receding gums and the pain associated with it by conducting general good oral health care as well as routine assessments by a dentist. The following should be conducted to prevent receding gums:
- Good oral healthcare is imperative to prevent receding gums. This includes brushing ones teeth twice a day to prevent plaque build up and flossing between the teeth at least once a day.
- Brushing correctly at a mild to moderate pressure with soft bristled toothbrush will help gums from receding. The teeth should be brushed in a gentle small circular movement or a short back and forth motion.
- If one grinds or clenches, a night guard may be necessary to prevent this. This will be customised for your mouth and prevent bruxism which may be the cause of the receding gums.
- Regular visits to you dentist, at least twice a year keep teeth and gums healthy and stop gums from receding.
Prevention is always better than cure. Once ones gums have receded they will not grow back hence the importance of looking after them and keeping your oral state healthy at all times. Warning signs that one can look out for which may tell whether the gums may be heading in this direction are the following:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold food and beverages
- Food getting stuck between your gums and supporting teeth
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Redness or puffiness around the gums
- Bad breath
- Exposed tooth roots
In a severe case of gum recession, one may require dental surgery, especially if your tooth roots are exposed. During gum grafting, a periodontist will use a small strip of gum tissue from either the roof of your mouth or somewhere else to cover the exposed root.
If receding gums is left untreated, the tooth roots will eventually expose, which can be painful and cause sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. Exposed roots are also prone to develop tooth decay, eventually leading to tooth loss and gum disease
Without treatment for receding gums, tooth loss is almost inevitable and severe pain is an eventuality. One should visit their dentist immediately should receding gums be suspected in order to salvage what is left of the gums and prevent any further deterioration through a structured oral care routine.