If you notice your teeth looking longer or your gum line becoming uneven, you might be wondering: Why are my gums receding? In this article, we discuss the most common causes of gum recession and the periodontal care methods that can help address this issue.
Why Are My Gums Receding?
One of the most common causes for gum recession is periodontal disease (gum disease), a chronic infection of the gum tissue. Gum recession typically happens in advanced stages of gum disease. Other symptoms that might help identify gum disease include:
- Gums that bleed often when brushing and flossing
- Persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth or bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Sore gums (painful to touch)
- Changes in the way teeth fit together or in the bite alignment
The number and type of symptoms of gum disease can vary from person to person. Thus, we recommend consulting a periodontist if you notice gum recession, even if no other symptoms of gum disease are present.
Other reasons for gum recession may include:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco (as it reduces blood flow to gums, slows healing, and increases risk of infection)
- Aggressive brushing that constantly irritates the gum tissue
- Hormonal changes
- Genetic predisposition
- Teeth grinding or clenching (as it puts excessive pressure on teeth and gums)
How to Treat Gum Recession
Gum recession treatment depends on the cause of the issue. When a recession is caused by gum disease, the condition must be managed before cosmetic procedures are possible. Let us look at the available treatment options for gum recession.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Improving your daily oral hygiene is non-negotiable when treating gum disease, as this condition is most often caused and exacerbated by bacteria in plaque and tartar. An effective oral hygiene routine includes:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for two full minutes
- Flossing every evening
- Using non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste
- Adding a water flosser as the first step in your evening routine
Additionally, dentists recommend that people with gum disease have professional dental cleanings and fluoride treatments every 3 to 4 months.
Also, as we mentioned before, a hard-bristled toothbrush can irritate the gums, so we recommend opting for a soft or medium-soft one and being gentle when brushing along the gum line.
Medications
Advanced stages of gum disease often require antibacterial therapy. You might be prescribed oral or topical antibiotics to reduce gum infection.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are needed when plaque and tartar accumulate in enlarged periodontal pockets (underneath the gum line). This procedure allows for cleaning the pockets, reducing infection, and prompts the gum tissue to reattach to the teeth.
Gum and Bone Grafting
Gum and bone grafting are used to regenerate tissue damaged by gum disease (when gum recession or bone loss is present). Gum grafting focuses on rebuilding gum tissue that has receded, helping to cover exposed tooth roots and protect them from further damage. Bone grafting uses implanted tissue material to restore the jawbone.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
Pinhole surgical technique is a cosmetic procedure that repositions the gum tissue to improve the appearance of the gumline. However, as we mentioned earlier, cosmetic procedures are typically considered only when the cause of recession is sufficiently managed.
Treat Gum Recession with David Kao DDS
If you notice signs of receding gums or other periodontal disease symptoms, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at our clinic. We use a wide range of therapeutic and cosmetic procedures to ensure your gum health and the beauty of your smile. We are looking forward to your visit.
