Feeling a little ‘long on the tooth’? While we typically use that phrase to describe something a bit past its prime, did you know it was first used to describe horses whose receding gums revealed they may be too old for purchase? It’s true – and unfortunately, this condition doesn’t just appear in the equine world- it can happen to humans, too! Here’s a closer look at why your gums could be receding, and what you can do to reverse it!
What Causes Gums to Recede?
When the margins of the periodontal tissue begin pulling away from the teeth and exposing the roots, this is known as “receding”. There are many things that can cause gums to shrink, such as genetics, brushing your teeth too aggressively, changes in hormones, and of course, periodontal disease. Worse yet, in addition to its unpleasant appearance, by creating that space between the teeth and periodontal tissue, harmful oral bacteria have a VIP entrance to infiltrate your gums and may eventually lead to permanent tooth loss!
How Can I Prevent Receding Gums?
Thankfully, preventing gum recession is easier than you might think. First and foremost, be sure to adhere to a solid oral hygiene routine. This means brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings. Beyond that, be sure to avoid any bad habits that could harm your periodontal tissue, such as excessive alcohol consumption, teeth grinding, and of course smoking, vaping, or using other tobacco products.
How Do Dentists Treat Receding Gums?
There are several ways your dentist can treat receding gums. Beginning stages can sometimes be reversed with periodontal therapy treatments like scaling and root planing, which clears away the bacteria and plaque from the periodontal pockets and planes the roots of the teeth so the tissue can reattach. However, if your condition has become too advanced, you may need the help of a restorative procedure such as gum grafting from a periodontist. Depending on your exact symptoms, your dentist can discuss your recommended treatment options during your exam.
Remember while receding gums can make you look older than you really are, its real danger lies beneath the surface, where dangerous oral bacteria can infiltrate the gums and cause permanent tooth loss. So, don’t let your smile reveal more than it should! Talk to your dentist today about gum disease therapy and stop receding gums in their tracks!
About Our Practice
At Buda Dental Professionals, we want you to have a healthy, beautiful smile. If your gums have become infected with bacteria, receding tissue can make you look and feel older than you really are, and may eventually rob you of your teeth. To put a stop to the shrink, don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule a consultation for gum disease therapy today by visiting our website or calling 512-295-5555.