Receding gums are a common dental problem, but most people do not realize it before it becomes serious. Gum recession occurs when the tissue surrounding your teeth retracts, exposing more of the tooth surface or its root. This can be caused by various things, including gum disease, brushing too hard, genetics, or smoking.
While it may seem harmless, gum recession can lead to more severe issues like tooth sensitivity, tooth loss, and tooth decay. It can also give rise to serious gum diseases that can cost you a fortune in treatment. The hot weather in Texas can contribute to dry mouth conditions, which can worsen your oral health.
If you have noticed sensitivity or feel like your teeth look longer, do not wait to take action. A dentist in Abilene, TX, can check your gum health and determine what is causing the recession. It is best to seek treatments during the initial stages of the problem rather than waiting for it to get worse.
Possible reasons why your gums may be receding
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Poor oral hygiene.
If you have poor oral hygiene, your gums may start to recede. When leftover food is accumulated in your mouth, it can lead to plaque buildup and cause gum inflammation. When this plaque is not removed, it converts into tartar, which can cause gum disease and recession.
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Aggressive brushing or flossing.
If you brush your teeth aggressively, stop it. Overbrushing your teeth can wear down the gum tissue. Moreover, it can cause your gums to pull away from the teeth. Therefore, you should choose a soft bristles toothbrush and brush very gently to protect your teeth and gums from any further damage.
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Periodontal disease (gum disease).
Gum infections like gingivitis can result in gum recession if you do not treat it timely. Gingivitis can progress to a more serious condition, periodontitis, which can result in deeper gum damage and affect the supporting structures of your teeth.
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Genetics.
Genetics also plays an important role. Some people are born with weaker gums that are more likely to recede. If anyone in your family has a history of gum recession, you need to be extra cautious with your oral health. Also, make sure you visit your dentist for regular gum checkups.
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Teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism).
Many people have a habit of grinding their teeth. This often happens during sleep. However, this movement puts extra pressure on your gums and leads to gum recession. Therefore, it is very important to wear a mouthguard if you do not want to damage your gums anymore.
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Misaligned teeth or bite issues.
If your teeth are crooked or misaligned, the pressure from chewing may be uneven. This can also put stress on your gums and lead to recession. However, there are certain orthodontic treatments like braces or aligners that can correct bite issues and prevent gum recession in the long term.
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Smoking and tobacco use.
Smoking is very dangerous for your oral health. It reduces blood flow to the gums and impairs their ability to heal, making them more prone to recession. Moreover, tobacco can also increase the risk of gum disease. Therefore, you must stay away from tobacco whether you are chewing or smoking it.
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Hormonal changes.
Hormonal changes in your body, especially during pregnancy, can make your gums more sensitive and prone to gum recessions. Women may be at higher risk for gum disease during times of hormonal changes. Therefore, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene during these times.
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Injury or trauma to gums.
Accidental injuries, like falls or sports accidents, can damage your gums and result in recession. Moreover, rough dental procedures and incorrect use of dental tools can also harm your gum tissues.
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Piercings in the lip or tongue.
Lip or tongue piercings can rub against the gums and cause irritation or even injury to your gum tissue. This can result in gum recession over time, especially if you do not take proper care of the piercing. Therefore, it is highly advised to remove or even avoid oral piercings to protect your gums from further damage.
