Receding gums can be painful, and unfortunately, this irreversible condition will only worsen without proper care and prevention. The best way to avoid the development of gum recession is to prevent it. Understanding the causes of this condition can help.
Here’s everything you need to know about how gum recession happens and what you can do to minimize your risk of developing or worsening it:
Causes of Gum Recession
Some of the causes of gum recession are a bit hard to parse out because they can look like good oral hygiene on the surface. For example, brushing is one of the leading causes of receding gums. Regular brushing is fine and encouraged, but ensure you’re not brushing too hard, or it can cause lasting damage to the gums.
You’ll also want to have regular dental check-ups to eliminate the buildup of plaque and tartar. A dentist can help you spot periodontal disease early, another leading cause of gum recession. They can also help correct your bite, as misaligned teeth contribute to recession.
Other causes of gum recession are easier to avoid, such as smoking or chewing tobacco. Even lip and tongue piercings can cause your gums to start receding. If this is a concern for you, then you may want to weigh whether you should remove those piercings and/or give up nicotine.
An Ounce of Prevention
The good news is that it only requires a little effort to prevent gum recession from worsening. Some people develop receding gums due to their genetics, but many of the causes are related to the care and maintenance of your mouth.
You can limit your risk of gum recession by brushing your teeth thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush twice a day. Floss before one of those brushings, and use mouthwash. You should also follow up regularly with your dentist. If you’re prone to gum disease, then you may want to have your teeth cleaned more frequently.
Eliminate other factors that can contribute to gum recession, such as tobacco use, smoking, and piercings. These are simple ways to reduce the risk of receding gums.
Getting the Help You Need
Are you ready to start tackling the issue of gum recession head-on? You need the help of a dentist with experience in this area to give you the best outcome for what can become a painful condition. At East Kildonan Dental Group, our dentists in Winnipeg offer services for anyone and everyone who may need extra care for their teeth and gums. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you!