What causes receding gums?
What causes the gums to recede?
General Dentist Bellevue Lynnwood Bothell
Receding gums are a very common issue. This means that the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth. This leaves some of the root of the tooth exposed.
Although it’s very common, gum recession can cause a few different issues. For some people, it’s a significant cosmetic concern, particularly if there’s a lot of gum recession around the mouth. It can also lead to increased tooth sensitivity. This happens because the root of a tooth has less enamel than other parts of the tooth. When the gum tissue pulls away, the exposed root of the tooth is more sensitive to things like pressure and temperature changes.
Receding gums also create deeper pockets between the gum tissue and the tooth. Bacteria can grow in these pockets, causing gum disease. This can lead to loss of bone tissue in the area and can sometimes cause teeth to be lost, because the tissues that hold the teeth in place are damaged.
What causes the gums to recede?
Gum recession can occur for a few different reasons. Some of the more common causes include:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease). The deeper pockets caused by gum recession can contribute to gum disease by giving bacteria a place to grow, but gum disease can also lead to gum recession. This happens because the inflammation caused by gum disease causes damage to the gum tissue, causing it to pull away from the tooth. A vicious cycle can be created, where gum disease causes gum recession, which worsens the gum disease. It’s very important to visit your dentist at least once every six months for a professional cleaning. If you do develop gum disease, treatments are available that can help.
- Grinding or clenching the teeth. Also known as bruxism, this habit puts pressure on the tooth roots. This stresses the tissues that help the gums stay stuck to the teeth, causing gum recession. A night guard can help some people with bruxism.
- Brushing the teeth too vigorously. A good home oral hygiene routine, including brushing your teeth twice a day, is extremely important, and can help to prevent gum disease. However, pressing too hard while brushing or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles can damage gum tissue, leading to gum recession. To help protect your teeth, choose a toothbrush with soft bristles, and try not to press too hard into the teeth while brushing.
- Genetics. Some people are more prone to gum disease and gum recession than others, because of genetic factors. It’s always important to see your dentist regularly, no matter how good your home oral hygiene routine is. If you’re genetically predisposed to have problems with your gum tissue, then professional dental care can help to maintain your smile.
Treatment for Receding Gums – General Dentist Bellevue Lynnwood Bothell
If you have gum disease, then it’s very important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Treating gum disease reduces the risk of tooth loss, as well as other serious health problems related to gum disease.
If you’re looking for a general dentist, we invite you to book an appointment with Dr. Mulliken. His patients come from all over the Eastside and even farther afield, to see a dentist who’s highly skilled as well as friendly and open. Please contact our office to schedule your appointment.