There are numerous types of dental issues you may encounter in life. Many of them will just be difficult to detect at the onset. In fact, even with proper oral hygiene, something like gum recession can develop without you noticing it, very slowly over time. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly. They will spot the changes you’re likely to miss. So, let’s explore gum recession.
Signs of Gum Recession
Now that gum recession in its early stages is difficult to detect, you need to be aware of the tell-tale signs. The following post describes some of the ones to look out for:
Symptoms can vary depending on the cause of your exposed root. You might also have exposed roots with no symptoms.
- Tender gums. If your tooth root is exposed, you may experience tender or sore gums that bleed when you brush them.
- Longer-looking tooth. Your tooth may look longer than usual if your gum line is receding.
- Swelling and pain. You may develop sharp pain and swelling if the nerve or pulp of your tooth becomes infected.
- Tooth discoloration. You may notice discoloration if you also have tooth decay.
- Brushing your teeth may cause sensitivity, as well as eating food that is:
- hot
- cold
- sour
- acidic
- sweet Read more at Healthline
You could also be asymptomatic, which is the most challenging situation in many ways. It’s also why you need a dentist to examine your teeth regularly.
Causes of Gum Recession
Obviously, you wouldn’t want to experience gum recession. However, you may be curious to know if you are more likely to suffer from it or not. Are there certain factors that predispose you to gum recession? Find out in the following post:
- Overly aggressive brushing or flossing. It’s great to be enthusiastic about oral care, but you should make sure that you’re brushing, not scrubbing! Never use a toothbrush that isn’t labelled “soft.” Be gentle on your teeth and remember that taking care of them isn’t supposed to hurt.
- Your gums’ characteristics are determined by your genetics, just as the rest of your body is. If one or both of your parents have gum recession, you’re at a higher risk for receding gums.
- Abnormal tooth positioning. If your teeth are not in alignment to one another, gum recession can occur in this situation.
- Grinding your teeth, or bruxism. Do you often wake up with a headache? Does your spouse or partner complain that you grind your teeth? This habit can be the cause of many dental maladies, not just gum recession, so let your dentist know right away if you think you are grinding your teeth. Teeth grinding can be treated easily and painlessly with a mouth guard and several other options.
- Trauma to gum tissue. The gum tissue may recede when a traumatic injury has occurred on a tooth or teeth. Read more at Colgate
Both aggression in brushing and the lack of it can affect recession. Due to this, it’s good to be moderate with your oral care routine.
Solutions for Gum Recession
If you suffer from receding gums, you’re probably wondering whether you can do anything about it. Can the process be reversed? Or better still, might your gums grow back? Get the answers you seek in the following post:
Some people claim that several natural remedies can “cure” gum recession. The most popular ones include oil pulling, using aloe vera, and drinking green tea. The question is: are they effective?
Each of these natural remedies may help improve your oral health. A 2009 study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research found that swishing sesame oil in the mouth reduced plaque and gum inflammation. However, the researchers only involved 20 participants, and all of them were too young (between 16 to 18 years old). thus failing to support the claim that oil pulling is a possible treatment for gum recession in older adults.
Another study published in the same year highlighted the possible advantages of drinking green tea for combating the bacterial causes of inflamed gums. And, a 2011 study found that applying aloe vera under the gums helped reduce bacteria buildup and inflammation. However, similar to the study about oil pulling, the researchers did not involve enough participants to strengthen the verity of their findings. Read more at Cunning Dental
It’s imperative that you voice any concerns about your gums to your dentist. This will help to ensure a favorable outcome if there really is an issue.
If you need help with gum-related problems or any other issues affecting your smile, Dr. Jolene Dague, one of the leading dentists in Davenport, Iowa, is ready to provide you with a transformation you’re sure to love. Get in touch today to schedule your dental appointment. Call Dague Dental Solutions at (563) 386-9770 or reach us through the contact form on our website. We look forward to creating the smile of your dreams.