Receding gums is a common dental problem where the gum tissue that connects your tooth and gums begins to wear away, exposing more of the tooth. This gradual process is typically discovered after symptoms like tooth sensitivity, a visible lengthening of the tooth or after an oral exam by your dentist. Here is a guide to frequently asked questions about receding gums and what you can do to treat them. 

Questions About Receding Gums, Answered 

What are the common causes?

There are many reasons a person could experience receding gums. The top cause is periodontal disease. A bacterial infection destroys the gum tissue surrounding your tooth and bone. Aggressive brushing and teeth grinding or clenching are another cause, putting too much pressure on the tooth and gum tissue itself. 

Diminishing gums can be a result of poor dental care, hormone changes or smoking. In some cases, it may have nothing to do with your oral care and have more to do with your genetics or tooth alignment. 

Why are receding gums a problem?

Receding gums aren't just aesthetically less appealing. They can result in small pockets forming between the tooth and gum where bacteria can get caught. A bacterial infection in the gum tissue can affect the tooth structure and result in tooth loss. 

How can I prevent receding gums?

The best way to take care of your gums is to brush and floss correctly, and see your dentist for oral exams twice a year, or as recommended. An electric toothbrush can prevent you from putting too much pressure on your teeth as you brush, eliminating the need to scrub. 

Pay attention to your mouth so you can be aware of any changes. If you are a smoker and decide to quit, you will reduce the likelihood of a host of oral issues and significant health concerns to boot. 

What are treatment options?

For mild gum recession, your dentist may focus on deep cleaning the areas of recession, removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gum's surface. Using root planing, this area will be made smoother to make it harder for bacteria to stick. 

A composite restoration utilizes resin to close any gap between the tooth and gum. For severe cases, a patient may undergo surgery that replaces the missing gum tissue with a tissue graft that heals in its place. 

A quality family dentist can make you a patient for life. When residents in Dunkirk, NY, are looking for the best oral care, they turn to North Chautauqua Dental. Since 1980, this dental practice has been dedicated to providing its patients with a full range of dental services to keep their smiles healthy and white. From extractions and dental implants to whitening treatments and dental veneers, this professional and experienced team works hard to ensure their patients feel calm and comfortable. To learn more about their team, visit the website. To schedule an appointment, call (716) 366-6822.