The number one cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease, or periodontal disease. However, there are steps you can take to limit your risk for gum disease or to treat and reverse it. Receding gums are one of the early warning signs that you may be at risk for gum disease.
What Causes Gums to Recede?
There are multiple causes of receding gums. First, you may simply be brushing your teeth too vigorously! While you may think that brushing quickly will allow you to finish earlier, vigorous brushing can damage your tooth enamel and irritate your gums, causing them to recede. Instead, gently brush your teeth for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled brush.
Gums can also recede due to poor oral hygiene. When bacterial plaque builds up and gets under your gumline, it irritates your gums and results in gum recession. Without proper care, bacterial plaque can harden into tartar, an irritant that can only be removed by a professional.
Can Receding Gums Grow Back?
While receding gums do not grow back, there are many things Dr. Lee and our team can do to treat the issue and prevent it from worsening. Minor gum recession can often be treated through a professional cleaning. One of our talented dental hygienists will remove the bacterial plaque and tartar from below your gumline. Then, we may prescribe a special mouthwash or rinse to clean the area. In more severe cases, we may use antibiotics to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
What Are Early Warning Signs of Gum Recession & Gum Disease?
The early warning signs that your gums may begin to recede due to gum disease include tender, swollen gums that have a bright red color or bleed easily. If you believe you may have gum disease, our team can help. Call us today to learn more about how we treat gum recession or to schedule your next appointment!
