4 Tips to Prevent Gum Recession

No one is immune to gum recession, even those with a perfectly healthy oral cavity. Many people deal with some form of recession. The condition, although hard to deal with, is not impossible to stop. To prevent the hassles of treatment (usually gum grafts), it is better to take measures to prevent the condition altogether.

Preventing gum recession

Gum recession is usually caused by gum disease, which is an infection and inflammation of the gums. The gums recede as the body tries to fight off the infection and gets weaker. The stress on the gums causes the tissues to deteriorate slowly. Gum recession can also occur due to congenital reasons like thin, fragile gums, and that explains why people with healthy teeth and gums also can develop the condition.

The risk of gum recession is also higher if someone brushes their teeth too hard every day. The recurrent pressure on the gum line can cause a recession. Undersized jawbones and crowded teeth are also causes of gum recession, among others. When gum recession occurs, the gum line will move gradually away from the tooth’s crown, eventually exposing the tooth roots and causing pain or even tooth loss. It is possible to prevent gum recession with the following methods:

1. Maintain good oral hygiene

The most effective way to prevent gum recession is to maintain good oral hygiene practices. Brushing and flossing every day is necessary. This will remove the food particles and bacteria in between and around the teeth and gums. Brushing should be done gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinsing the mouth with antimicrobial mouthwash can also help to remove bacteria.

2. Schedule regular dental visits

Regular visits to the dentist are also important to prevent gum recession. During a checkup appointment, the dentist will examine the gums to see if there are signs of gum disease or recession. The dental professional will be able to provide treatment and prevent the condition from worsening. They will also clean tartar deposits on the gum and teeth to reduce the risk of developing oral health issues.

3. Undergo orthodontics treatment

Crooked teeth and misaligned bite place undue force on the gums and jawbone. This can increase the risks of gum recession. Orthodontic treatments like metal braces or clear aligners can correct malocclusion and stop the gums from receding.

4. Avoid tobacco use

Tobacco use in different forms — cigars, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or products containing nicotine — are not favorable to the gums. Tobacco leaves a residue on the teeth and gums gradually, and if they are not cleaned properly, it can cause gum recession. Quitting smoking or avoiding the use of tobacco can reduce the risk of gum recession, as well as the chances of other health issues such as oral cancer.

Final note

The simple tips listed above are effective for preventing gum recession. Receding gums are hereditary in some families. In that case, it is advisable to contact the dental office and discuss with the dentist effective methods to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you notice signs of receding gums, the dentist will suggest treatment options to restore gum health and volume.

Request an appointment here: https://www.titandentalcare.com or call Titan Dental Care at (703) 745-3227 for an appointment in our Sterling office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: I Think My Gums Are Receding in Sterling, VA.