Six Tips to Prevent Receding Gums

Gum recession is a very common problem in dentistry. Bad oral hygiene can lead to gum recession, where the gums pull back and create pockets between the tooth & gum. These spaces then become filled with bacteria that can cause damage to the bone and tissue. Gum recession, if left untreated, can cause severe pain and even tooth loss.

Gum recession happens gradually. You may not be able to notice any changes until you feel the pain and sensitivity. Regular dental visits are essential to detect gum recession early.

Here are some other things you can do to protect your gums and improve oral health.

1. Take good care of your dental health

Healthy gums are the best way to avoid gum recession and other issues. Good dental hygiene habits can reduce the risk of periodontal disease, tooth decay, or tooth loss.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth twice daily (or after each meal). Daily flossing is also important for maintaining a healthy mouth. You can rinse your mouth with antibacterial toothpaste to combat further plaque build-up.

2. Do not brush too hard

Brushing your teeth is essential. Brushing too hard can cause damage to your gums and teeth. Over-brushing can damage the enamel of your teeth and cause receding gums. Brushing aggressively can cause enamel to wear down and gums to recede.

3. Visit your dentist regularly

Regular visits to Liverpool dentists are another important part of maintaining healthy teeth. During these visits, your dentist will use special tools and techniques to remove tartar buildup. Gum recession can occur if tartar is not treated. Tartar cannot be removed with regular flossing and brushing; only your dentist can remove it.

Your dentist can also detect periodontal diseases and tooth decay. These conditions can lead to gum receding. It is best to treat any oral problems early. You can address any issues that may develop before they become more severe by attending regular dental appointments.

4. Resolve bruxism

When you clench or grind your teeth, this is called bruxism. Grinding and clenching can cause severe damage to your gums and teeth. This can lead to gum receding. Talk to your dentist if you experience clenching and grinding. You can use a custom mouthguard to treat sleep bruxism, which is nighttime clenching or grinding.

5. Stop using tobacco products and quit smoking

Smoking and using tobacco products can be very harmful to your oral health. Receding gums is just one of many severe and harmful consequences of smoking. Smokers tend to have more plaque and tartar, negatively affecting the gums.

6. Removing lip and tongue piercings

Infected lips and tongues can cause damage to teeth and gums. Jewellery can rub the gums and irritate them. You may notice your gums receding over time.

What to do if your gums have receded?

It is important to see your dentist if your gums are receding. There are various options depending on the severity and extent of the problem. Your dentist will recommend which method is best for you.

Root and Scaling Planning

Deep cleaning requires scaling and root planinng. This procedure is ideal for mild gum recession. During the process, your dentist will clean out all plaque and tartar from your teeth and below your gum line. They then smoothen the roots of your teeth to reattach the gums.

There are also open flap scales and planning. This refers to removing the gum tissue during root smoothing and cleaning.

Regeneration

When the bone or gum tissue has been severely damaged, regeneration is performed. Your dentist does a comprehensive cleaning once again. To encourage healing, your dentist may apply a regenerative substance to bone and tissue. The gum is then reattached.

Gum Grafts

There are many types of gum grafts. All involve removing small sections of tissue and layering them over damaged gums. This tissue is either from your roof or the inside of the mouth. These are the types of gum grafts:

● Connective tissue transplants are used to address more severe areas of damage. The graft is removed from the roof of your mouth in this instance.

● The Gingival Graft is recommended for people with thin gum tissue. This option does not require the nerves and roots to be exposed. The dentist will take a small amount of tissue from your roof and attach it to your gums.

● Pedicle Graft is a treatment option for people with receding teeth but otherwise healthy. A flap of tissue is removed from one side and attached to the other. The flap is then turned over to cover exposed roots.

Receding Gums? Contact Your Dentist

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to your oral health. Most people don't feel pain until the problem has advanced. Regular visits and a strict dental hygiene regimen are the best strategies to avoid gum recession and periodontal problems. Your dentists will likely spot gum recession sooner than you!

Make sure you have regular dental visits and that you brush twice daily. Be gentle because aggressive brushing can cause gum damage. To maintain good oral hygiene, you should address clenching, grinding, or tongue piercings.