Receding Gums Are a Problem and What You Can Do About Them
When you think about your oral health, do you only think about your teeth? It’s a very common mistake to overlook the gums or ignore problems along the gumline. Don’t make that mistake yourself!
Healthy pink gum tissue is meant to cover the root of the tooth. If your gums are starting to recede and expose tooth roots, your mouth is at higher risk of decay, infection, and tooth loss. This is a condition call receding gums, and it needs to be identified and treated as early as possible.
Why Is Your Gum Line Receding?
Your gums should wrap tightly around the lower portion of each tooth and remain firmly attached to the jaw bone. This makes the gums responsible for shielding the roots of the teeth from bacteria, plaque, and damage. When the gum line recedes, it withdraws from its correct position and exposes the roots of the teeth.
Receding gums develop for a few different reasons:
- Physical wear of the gums that is often caused by vigorous tooth brushing or the use of hard bristles instead of soft.
- Periodontal disease, the infection of the gums and jawbone. This disease causes the gums to pull back away from the teeth, which in turn creates open pockets where bacteria thrives. Excess bacteria causes infection that triggers the connective gum tissue and jawbone to deteriorate.
Signs of Receding Gums
A receding gum line isn’t always easy to catch in its early stages. Watch out for the the following signs of receding gums so that you can identify and treat your condition early:
- Swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when eating, brushing, or flossing
- Worsening tooth sensitivity
- Teeth that are loose or can move slightly when touched
- Pain when chewing
- Teeth that look longer than others in the mouth
The Best Treatment Options
Receding gums can be treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and dental care. Be sure to incorporate more whole foods into your diet, and stay away from sugary and acidic foods breed bacteria. Dr. Yamaguchi of 19th Avenue Dental can also perform treatments that support better gum health and stop aggressive recession. Call to make an appointment in Everett, Washington today!
