Fight Receding Gums

Gum recession is a very common dental condition, especially as we age. Receding gums happen when the soft tissue surrounding the teeth begin to slip away from their normal position. As your gum line moves further down, you may experience tooth sensitivity. This is due to part of the root of the tooth being exposed. The root of the tooth houses the nerves and with this area of the tooth being more unprotected, you may become more susceptible to pain and infection.

Some common causes and how to fight receding gums include:

Brushing Too Hard

Being too aggressive with the toothbrush not only can cause tooth abrasion, but can also lead to your gums pulling away from your teeth. Ease up on the force applied while brushing and make sure you are using a soft-bristled tooth brush. Some people may find it helpful to use an electric toothbrush to provide a more smooth and steady motion.

Infrequent Brushing & Flossing

On the opposite end of the spectrum, not following a proper home care routine can cause receding gums as well. Not brushing and flossing your teeth often enough can cause bacteria to build up between your teeth. This can lead to inflammation of the gums and problems with the underlying bone structures surrounding your teeth. Be sure to discipline yourself to brushing and flossing each morning and night to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Gum Disease

Receding gums can often be a sign of a more serious condition, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Make sure to keep up with your dental checkups every six months to evaluate the health of your gums. Early detection is important to keep any problems from becoming more serious, expensive and painful.

If you are showing signs of receding gums or other dental issues, give us a call at (813) 475 – 4528. Make sure you are up-to-date on your dental checkup and make your next appointment with Westchase Premier Dental if it’s been 6 months since your last visit. Your gums will thank you!

Further Reading: Receding Gums