Smiling is typically all about your teeth. But when your smile appears more "gummy" you could be experiencing gum recession.
This common dental issue affects all ages. It can cause your teeth to feel more sensitive (especially around the overexposed gum line and increase your risk of tooth decay and tooth loss.
Awareness about what causes gum recession and how it can be treated is essential to good oral health.
What is gum recession?
Your gums recede when the tissue begins to pull back from the surfaces of your teeth. As the recession expands your sensitive tooth roots can become exposed and vulnerable.
Keep in mind that the primary, surface structure of your tooth is naturally covered and protected by enamel. On the other hand, your tooth root relies on the protection of your gum tissue.
As your tissue recedes and exposes more of your tooth your risk of decay and damage increases.
Common signs of gum recession can include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold when eating or drinking
- The development of decay and cavities on the surface of your tooth root
And in more serious cases...
- Tooth loss
Early signs of gum recession are a signal to seek a dental examination and discuss treatment to prevent these issues and further damage to your teeth.
What causes gum recession?
A variety of factors can cause your gums to recede and expose more of your tooth structure and the underlying root.
Poor oral hygiene
Inconsistent or inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup on your tooth surfaces. Hardened tartar that's not professionally removed can ultimately affect your gum tissue, increase your risk of gum disease, and kick gum recession into high-gear.
Gum disease issues
Gingivitis and periodontitis can be major causes of gum recession. Gum tissue weakened by infection and disease begins to erode and allow the supporting tooth structure to be exposed more.
Brushing aggressively
Bearing down too hard or pulling the tissue up and way from your tooth when brushing can eventually damage your protective gum tissue. A toothbrush with hard bristles can have an equal effect on your gum tissue and speed recession.
Your genes
You might be genetically predisposed to thinner gum tissue. This would make yours more susceptible to gum recession.
Hormone changes
Hormone fluctuations can make gums more sensitive and prone to recession. You might notice this condition during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause.
Teeth grinding and clenching
Habitual force caused by grinding and clenching your teeth can cause your gum tissue to weaken and recede over time.
Tooth misalignment or bite issues
Crooked teeth and a misaligned bite creates uneven pressure on your teeth, gums, and underlying bone. Recession can result from uncorrected alignment or a crooked bite.
How to treat gum recession
The severity and cause of your gum recession determines the solution your dentist will use to correct it. Following are the common professional and personal solutions to treat your receding gums.
Scaling and root planing
This deep teeth cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar build-up below your gum line and smooths the root surfaces to help your gums reattach to your teeth.
Gum grafts
More advanced gum recession could require the use of tissue from other parts of your mouth or donor tissue to cover exposed root portions and restore your gum line to a healthy position.
Orthodontics
Misaligned teeth corrected with braces or aligners help reduce the uneven pressure on your gums and prevent further recession.
Nightguards or mouthguards
These appliances help cushion your teeth and gums if you grind or clench your teeth consistently.
An intact and natural looking smile is a sign that your teeth and gums are properly aligned. Noticing the signs of gum recession and being aware of the causes and treatment options can help ensure that your smile is healthy and attractive.
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