If you have been feeling like your gums are gradually shrinking, you are not alone. Receding gums is a common problem that can affect anyone at any age. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of receding gums and how to prevent it from happening!

Possible Causes

  1. There are a few things that can cause gum recession. One of the most common causes is gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissue and bone supporting your teeth. If you have gum disease, it is important to see a dentist so they can treat it before it leads to gum recession.
  2. Brushing your teeth too hard can also cause gum recession. When you brush your teeth, be sure to use gentle strokes and a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should also avoid flossing too vigorously as this can also damage your gums.
  3. Another possible cause of gum recession is genetics. If your family has a history of gum disease, you may be more likely to develop it yourself.
  4. Smoking is also a risk factor for gum disease. Smoking can damage the gum tissue and make it more difficult for the gums to heal.

Prevention

If you are concerned about receding gums, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening. 

  1. First, be sure to brush and floss your teeth every day. This will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums. 
  2. You should also see a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. If you have gum disease, your dentist can treat it before it leads to gum recession.
  3. Quit smoking if you smoke cigarettes. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and gum recession. 
  4. Be sure to eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods. Eating nutritious foods will help keep your gums healthy.

Treatment Options

If you think you may be experiencing gum recession, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and receding gums treatment plan. Your dentist will be able to determine the cause of your gum recession and recommend the best course of action for you based on the severity of your gum recession. Treatment options include gum grafting, which involves taking gum tissue from another part of your mouth and attaching it to the receding gums. This can help cover exposed tooth roots and prevent further gum loss. Other treatment options include scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, as well as oral rinses and antibiotics. With proper care, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid further gum loss.

I am Dr. Onatsky. I am here to help you obtain and maintain that beautiful healthy smile. Call today to schedule an appointment: 718-621-0827. Onatsky Dental Clinic is located at 2960 Ocean Ave 1st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11235. Stay well.