Do you suspect that your gums are receding? If you do things are a lot more serious than you probably realize, as your gums play an important role in protecting your teeth and keeping them firmly in place.
If your gums start to recede then gaps will open up – which in turn will make it easy for bacteria to accumulate. Before you know it you may end up with tooth decay, and tooth loss.
Frankly speaking there are many causes of receding gums, but the most common are:
- Periodontal disease
The main cause of receding gums is periodontal disease – also known as gum disease. It starts when bacteria builds up between your gum and teeth causing infection and inflammation. If left untreated it will slowly destroy not only the gum tissue but also the bone that supports it.
- Aggressive brushing or flossing
Brushing or flossing your teeth with too much force can damage your gums and make them recede. That is why it is recommended that you brush and floss gently, and use soft-bristled toothbrushes.
- Genetics
Studies have shown that genetics can play a role in receding gums. In some cases your genes may put you at increased risk of receding gums, while in others they may give you a predisposition to gum disease.
- Clenching or grinding teeth
If you have the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth frequently it may result in gum recession. The additional force exerted will be borne by your gums and could wear them down over time.
- Misaligned teeth or bite
Having teeth that are misaligned, or an overbite or underbite ,can increase friction to parts of your gums. That in turn will wear your gums and make them recede more quickly.
- Tobacco products
Smoking or consuming other tobacco products can cause gum recession in several ways. It will inhibit your saliva production allowing more plaque to build up. At the same time it will also affect your immune system – putting you at greater risk of periodontal disease.
- Hormonal fluctuations
Women are particularly vulnerable to gum recession due to hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy or menopause. The hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive and increase the risk of them receding.
- Lip or tongue piercings
Any lip or tongue piercings that come into contact with your gums could potentially wear them down by rubbing and irritating them repeatedly. As time goes by this could cause the gums to recede.
If you suspect that you have receding gums, it is best to contact your dentist and book an appointment as soon as possible. Don’t just brush it off like many people do, or by the time you get it treated the damage may be already done.
Keep in mind that once your gum tissue is damaged and lost, it won’t come back – so it is best to get treated as early as possible to prevent it from receding any more. As long as you visit your dentist quickly, most early causes of gum recession are treatable.
