The issue of gums receding is extremely common. When your gums are receding they pull back from the surface of your teeth, exposing the root surfaces of your teeth.
Here are the common signs and symptoms of receding gums:
- Pain at the gum line
- Sensitivity caused by exposed teeth roots
- Teeth can appear longer
- If severe, it can cause loose teeth
Causes of receding gums
There are a number of reasons why your gums could be receding:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Hardened plaque build-up (known as tartar/calculus)
- Family history of periodontal disease
- Brushing too aggressively (too much pressure) over a lengthy period of time
- Clenching or grinding your teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Smoking
- Diabetes
How to prevent receding gums
- Visit your dentist regularly so that it can be spotted early
- Gentle brushing
- Good dental hygiene to keep gums healthy
Receding gums treatment for mild cases can be effectively treated by your dentist and hygienist to get rid of plaque and tartar build-up below the gum line so your gums can heal. Our hygienist will also take measurements of your gums to help monitor and treat gums disease.
If the condition is more advanced, you will need to see a periodontist (gum specialist) to treat the problem more aggressively.