Causes of Gum Recession

Taking good care of your teeth is important for a healthy smile that will last for years. Lots of people don’t realize, however, that taking care of your gums is just as important for a health and appealing smile. Swollen gums, gum disease, and bleeding gums can be uncomfortable and can even affect your teeth as well as your jawbone. One issue that also affect your dental health is gum recession. The team at our Rockville, Maryland cosmetic dentistry office would like to address the issues surrounding receding gums and what we can do to treat them.

Gum recession refers to a condition in which the gums gradually pull back from around a tooth, exposing the cementum, dentin, and other structures of the root of the tooth as well. There are many possible causes of gum recession. Some of these include gum disease (i.e., gingivitis and periodontitis), tooth grinding, use of chewing tobacco, smoking cigarettes and cigars, crooked teeth, brushing too vigorously, and poor dental hygiene.

There are many different symptoms of gum recession that you should be aware of. The first sign of gum recession that you may notice is tooth sensitivity. Given that part of the tooth’s root is exposed, you will likely notice an acute sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages. Gum recession may also lead to tooth discoloration, cavities forming below the gumline, and changes in the spaces between your teeth.

There are plenty of options for dealing with gum recession, but it’s best to practice good dentla hygiene in order to prevent gum recession from occurring in the first place. Be sure to floss everyday and to brush your teeth thoroughly as least twice a day. Be sure to select a toothbrush with soft bristles so you don’t harm the gums or the gumline.

It’s important that the root cause of the gum recession be treated. For instance, if crooked teeth led to gum recession, you should undergo some form of orthodontic treatment to straighten the teeth. If gum disease was responsible, then the gum disease should be treated. In many cases, soft-tissue grafting can be used to help build up the gumline again.

For more information about gum recession, Rockville, Maryland dental crowns, and other matters related to dental care and dental health, be sure to contact our cosmetic dentistry office in Rockville, Maryland.