Gum recession is a problem that we see all the time. Many people who have this problem don’t even know it. Because of the consequences of gum recession, it is important to know the factors that increase risk, and where to turn for help.
Receding gums are often associated with gum disease. This is because infection in the gums causes the tissue to break down and pull away from the teeth. The longer gum disease goes without proper treatment, the more gums recede and the greater the risk of tooth loss. While gum disease may be a significant factor in the development of recession, it is not the only one.
Factors to gum recession include:
- Poor hygiene. When we do not brush and floss, bacteria accumulate around teeth at the gum line. As tissue weakens, it pulls away from the teeth.
- Heredity. Genetic factors predispose nearly 30 percent of us to gum disease despite hygiene practices. This supports the need for good daily habits.
- Tobacco. People who smoke or use smokeless tobacco are at significantly higher risk for oral infections, including gum disease. The chemicals in tobacco products degrade gum tissue, causing recession.
- Brushing too hard. Gums are delicate! We can demonstrate how to brush and floss so you do not inadvertently cause your gums to recede.
- Friction and pressure. Bruxism is a habit for many people. It describes the jaw-clenching and teeth-grinding that may go on during sleep. The force that is placed onto teeth and the gums has been found to cause recession.
- Hormones. Women are more susceptible to gum recession due to the fluctuations in hormones. The risk increases during pregnancy and also peri-menopause.
- Insufficient dental care. Even for those who brush and floss daily, it is important to obtain routine dental care every six months. The recall visits in which we check and clean the teeth enable us to monitor overall oral health. This means that problems like recession can be spotted early and treated with the most appropriate care before significant damage occurs.
The team at Sabharwal Dental Group believes in developing ongoing relationships with each patient in order to provide them with the greatest benefits of professional dental care. To schedule your visit in one of our dental clinics in the Vaughn area, call (844) 432-0770.
