Filtered by Oral Health Goal
A healthy, vibrant smile can boost your confidence and overall well-being. However, receding gums can be a common dental issue that affects both oral health and aesthetics. It may start as a minor issue but if left untreated, it can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum disease, and even tooth loss. In this article, we will delve into the causes, effects and treatment options for gum recession.
1. What is gum recession?
Gum recession is a form of gum disease. It happens when your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing the roots underneath. Your teeth can become more sensitive when brushing or eating, making daily necessities a painful hassle. Gum recession can be mild, moderate or severe, and it may affect one tooth or multiple teeth. So make sure you take proactive measures to limit the effects of this issue.
2. How to promote gum health and tissue regeneration?
Treating the effects of gum recession is crucial to maintaining good oral health. Gums that have receded might not grow back, but there are some key steps that you can consider to prevent the condition from worsening. The first step in treating gum recession is to improve your oral hygiene routine. This includes regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and prevent further gum disease. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique to avoid damaging your gums. Following these steps can benefit your oral health and confidence from thicker, brighter gums.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential. Dentists can help you to remove the dental stones that cannot be removed through regular brushing and can advise you on proper oral care. In cases where gum recession is severe, a gum graft may be recommended. During the procedure, gum tissue from another part of the mouth — or sometimes a donor — is used to cover the exposed root surface. Scaling and root planing is a common deep-cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease. These procedures remove plaque and tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth to promote gum tissue reattachment. These and other procedures are just some examples of ways your dentist can help.
If malocclusion is contributing to gum recession, you may require additional help from an orthodontist. Orthodontic treatment may be suggested to correct teeth misalignment and reduce traumatic pressure on gums. If you smoke, quitting is essential to prevent further gum recession and ensure the success of any orthodontic treatments. For post-treatment, there are over-the-counter products like desensitising toothpaste or topical fluoride gel that can help alleviate tooth sensitivity associated with gum recession.
Taking care of your gums is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall oral health. Gum recession is not something that can be neglected. If your gums recede too much, it may result in bone loss, which can ultimately result in tooth loss. By understanding the causes of receding gums and adopting these effective ways to restore gum health, you can prevent further damage and achieve a beautiful, confident smile.
References:
- C.C. medical (no date) Gum recession: Causes, prevention, Surgery & Treatment, Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22753-gum-recession (Accessed: 05 October 2023).
- (No date) Nutrition & Oral Health | Colgate®. Available at: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health (Accessed: 05 October 2023).
- Mark Burhenne, D. (2021) The 12 best foods to eat if you have gum disease, Ask the Dentist. Available at: https://askthedentist.com/gum-disease-diet/ (Accessed: 05 October 2023).
Being a dentist at the prestigious Tiew Dental, Dr Jacquelyn Lim is one you can rely on for accurate, professional advice. She graduated from University Malaya in 2019, and now has invaluable experience and knowledge, thanks to her time serving at government dental clinics. She has a special interest in Orthodontics and Periodontics. When she’s not treating patients at her clinic, she is either at the gym or travelling to her favourite destination.