What Is Gum Recession?

Have you noticed that your teeth look a bit longer than usual? While you may not pay too much attention to this fact, it can be a sign of a serious problem - gum recession. 

What is gum recession, what causes it, and what can you do about it? Keep reading to find out! 

So, What Is Gum Recession? 

Gum recession is a condition in which the gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth and its root. Because of this, pockets can form between the teeth and gum line, making it easier for bacteria to accumulate and become infected. If left untreated, gum recession can eventually lead to tooth loss. 

‍What Causes Gum Recession? 

Gum recession can be caused by a variety of factors, such as: 

• Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to getting gum disease regardless of how well they are taking care of their oral health. 

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting to brush and floss your teeth daily can lead to bacteria accumulating on your teeth and turning into plaque. Over time, if this plaque is not removed with regular dental cleanings, it can turn into tartar. Tartar can increase the likelihood of gum recession. 

• Gum Disease: Gum disease is the most common cause of gum recession. It's an infection of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. The infection causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots.

• Aggressive Tooth Brushing. When you brush your teeth too hard, you can wear away the gum tissue, exposing the roots of the teeth. This can also happen if you use a toothbrush with hard bristles.

Gum Recession Signs 

The most obvious sign of gum recession is that your teeth seem longer than usual. Moreover, because the exposed roots of the teeth do not have the protective covering of enamel, they become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. This can cause pain or discomfort when eating or drinking.

Can You Treat Gum Recession? 

Fortunately, gum recession can be treated and even reversed in most cases. The treatment will depend on the cause of the condition and its severity. 

If gum disease is the cause, your dentist will recommend periodontal care. This type of treatment usually involves a deep cleaning of the teeth and gums, also known as scaling and root planing. The dentist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums to reduce inflammation.

If the cause of the gum recession is aggressive tooth brushing, you will simply need to modify your brushing technique. Your dentist can teach you how to brush your teeth correctly and recommend a toothbrush with soft bristles.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct gum recession. This can include a procedure known as a gum graft, in which a piece of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and used to cover the exposed roots of the teeth.

‍Dealing with Gum Recession? We Can Help! 

If you think your gums are receding, schedule an appointment with our dentist in Bowling Green for a thorough consultation. We can help you identify the cause of gum recession and find the best treatment. 

Follow this link to schedule your appointment online with Dr. Packard or one of the dentists at Precision Dental. 

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