Can you fix receding gums?

When gums recede, the gum tissue that supports the teeth wears down, which leads to more of the tooth, and possibly the tooth’s root, being exposed. The exposed areas of teeth and gums are more susceptible to the growth of bacteria, which can lead to disease and decay. If this bacteria growth goes unchecked, the gum and bone tissues themselves can sustain damage, which can lead to tooth loss. Receding gums is a very common dental condition that can be caused by poor oral hygiene, aggressive brushing, disease, and genetics. Since the gums receded relatively gradually, many people who have receding gums aren’t aware that they suffer from this issue. There are a few symptoms that indicate that the gums may be receding. First is the appearance of the teeth themselves; in cases where gums are receding, the teeth appear longer, since more of their surface is exposed and visible. In cases of more severe gum recession, the roots of the teeth may be exposed. The roots of the teeth are highly sensitive, and if they become exposed, this can lead to discomfort and possibly pain. If you have severely receding gums, you may also find that your teeth have loosened, which can be due to the buildup of bacteria and resulting disease of the tissues of the mouth. The more the gums receded, the greater the chances of loosened teeth

Receding gums have many possible causes. Periodontal disease, or an infection of the gums, causes gum tissues to deteriorate, eventually also degrading the bone that holds your teeth in place. The main cause of gum recession is periodontal disease. In its initial stages, periodontal disease is usually painless, and can therefore go undetected. Early minor symptoms of periodontal disease include redness or swelling of the gums, tender or bleeding gums, and chronic bad breath. See your dentist if you suspect that you may have receding gums caused by periodontal disease. Receding gums can also be caused by genetics -- in some cases, people are simply more prone to periodontal disease, even in cases where they have exemplary oral hygiene. Overly aggressive brushing of the teeth can also lead to receding gums, so be sure to ask your dentist for a demonstration of proper brushing techniques and appropriate pressure. On the other hand, inadequate brushing and flossing may also worsen receding gums, allowing plaque to harden into tartar and further pushing the gum tissue away from the surfaces of the teeth. This tartar must be removed professionally and is best prevented by regular, proper brushing and flossing. Women may be more prone to receding gums, which can be caused by changes in estrogen levels like the ones that naturally occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause; these changing estrogen levels can also lead to gum sensitivity in general. People who smoke cigarettes or use other forms of tobacco are also more prone to the plaque buildup that can lead to receding gums, as are people who habitually clench or grind their teeth. People with crooked teeth or an improperly aligned bite may also find themselves with receding gums, as improperly placed force may adversely affect the bone and gum tissue.

In cases of mild recession, patients may find professional deep cleaning to be beneficial. Dentists can remove plaque and tartar during this deep cleaning, smoothing and polishing the exposed tooth and root area and preventing or delaying future bacteria growth. Sometimes, dentists will follow a deep cleaning with the application of an antibacterial gel, or with a prescription for antibacterial mouthwash, to discourage future overgrowth of bacteria. If this professional deep cleaning is insufficient, the dentist may then recommend surgery to repair or replace the receding gum tissue.

More on Gum Recession : Receding Gums Symptoms