What Is Gum Recession?

This is a condition whereby the gum tissue surrounding the teeth recedes or pulls back, which exposes more of the tooth or the tooth’s root. It can lead to the formation of “pockets,” or gaps between the tooth and gum line, which can allow disease-causing bacteria to build up. It is important to treat gum recession as early as possible. If left untreated, you risk severely damaging supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth, which ultimately could result in tooth loss.

Fortunately, early treatment can reverse or stop the gum recession process. Gum Recession is a common dental problem. Typically the first signs of gum recession start with tooth sensitivity, or you may even notice a tooth looks longer than normal. 

If you start to show symptoms of Gum Recession it is not something you want to ignore. There are many treatments that your dentist can do to repair the gums and also prevent any further damage. 

The Gums

Also called gingivae, the gums are the pink tissue that meets the base of the teeth. Gum tissue is quite dense and has a good supply of blood vessels beneath a mucous membrane. It also connects with the rest of the mouth lining. Firmly attached to the jawbone, the gums tightly cover each tooth in your mouth up to its neck. Healthy gums are pink, stripped, and tough. 

Why Do Gums Recede?

There are various reasons that can cause your gums to recede, which can include periodontal disease or poor oral hygiene. This condition however, can also affect individuals with good oral hygiene. The main causes of gum recession are inflammation of the tissues and physical wear of the gums.

Your genes can also be the reason your gums may be more susceptible to gum recession. Studies have shown that 30% of the population may be predisposed to gum disease, regardless of how well you care for your teeth.  

You should avoid brushing your teeth too vigorously to prevent the enamel on your teeth to wear away and thus preventing your gums to recede. You should also avoid toothbrushes with hard bristles. Often, physical wear of the gums happens more on the left side of your mouth since most people use their right hand while brushing teeth.

Other reasons why gums recede include:

• Not flossing, brushing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash enough can cause tartar to form between teeth. This can cause gum recession.
• Clenching and grinding your teeth will put too much pressure on the teeth, which leads to gum recession.
• If you use tobacco products, sticky plaque is more likely to form on your teeth. This can be very difficult to get rid of and can lead to gum recession.
• Hormonal changes in females during times such as in puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can make gums much more sensitive, and therefore more venerable to gum recession.

Again, gum recession is a relatively common dental condition. Many people will not notice the first signs of gum recession. This is because gum recession happens slowly. Often, the sensitivity of the affected tooth is the first sign of this condition, it is important to schedule regular cleanings with your dentist to catch gum recession early.