What exactly is “oral health”? Oftentimes, people automatically think of keeping their teeth healthy and clean since that is the first thing others notice when smiling. However, oral health also includes keeping the gums in top condition. These soft mouth tissues not only form a tight seal of protection around your teeth but also provide a barrier against bacteria. However, your gums can still experience trauma and illness. They can even begin to recede. Read on to learn the causes and how your dentist can restore your smile!
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing more of it, including your dental roots. Aside from making your smile appear off balance, gum recession can seriously harm your oral health if left untreated. It increases your risk of tooth decay, tooth infection, dental sensitivity, and other similar issues due to the revealing of the tooth’s root.
The Major Causes of Gum Recession
There is not one dominant cause for the gums to begin to recede. However, there are a variety of factors that can cause this oral health issue, such as:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: When an excess of plaque builds up in the mouth due to a lack of consistent brushing and flossing, oral health issues occur that cause loss or gum recession.
- Teeth Grinding: Bruxism (teeth grinding) wears down teeth, which can trigger the gums to begin to recede.
- Aggressive Brushing: If the gumline is brushed too hard, it can cause damage to the gums.
- Tobacco Use: Well-regarded studies have revealed that smoking tobacco leads to gum recession.
How Can Your Dentist Help?
To keep your smile protected from the various issues that gum recession can cause, it’s best to treat it as soon as possible. Fortunately, your dentist can help with this oral health issue! After a thorough examination, they can suggest various treatment options. The most common periodontal (gum) therapy is called root scaling and planing. This is a deep cleaning of the mouth that removes bacteria from the pockets between your gums and teeth. The treatment frees your gums from any infected matter and allows your gums to heal.
A beautiful smile includes thriving teeth and gums. By seeking treatment from your dentist for receding gums, you can get not only your grin but your oral health back on track!
About the Author
Dr. Julie Young and her team at Corte Madera Dentist are eager to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy and beautiful. With training from some of the most prominent dental professionals, she has almost 25 years of experience as a general, restorative, and cosmetic dentist. She offers a range of treatments and procedures, including periodontal therapies like scaling and root planing. To schedule an appointment, contact her through her website or call (415) 924-5300.
