What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Receding Gums?

By Teresa Truman 6 months ago

Receding gums, or gingival recession, refer to the gum surrounding the teeth that pulls back or wear away, causing more of the tooth and its root to be exposed. This common dental problem occurs gradually and is one of the possible causes of tooth sensitivity, greater vulnerability to tooth decay, and tooth loss when unresolved as mentioned by a dentist in Fort Lee, NJ. Some of the points discussed in this article include receding gums’ causes and symptoms

Several Factors Can Cause Receding Gums:

They include the following:

  •         A formation of a periodontal pocket: Plaque and tartar around the gums can irritate and cause inflammation known as gingivitis. This condition may progress to periodontitis with deep periodontal pockets if not treated.
  •         Poor oral health: When tooth hygiene is not taken care of, over time, it leads to gum recession
  •         Aggressively brushing teeth: Hard brushing or toothbrushes with hard bristles wear away the gums, ultimately causing recess.
  •         Genetics: Individuals with hereditary gum disease are at risk of developing receding gums.
  •         Tobacco use: smoking and chewing tobacco increases the risk of gum disease and receding gums.
  •         Hormonal transitions: hormones make gums prone to infection and inflammation, leading to recession.

Symptoms of Receding Gums

However, signs of receding gums may be somewhat different depending on the extent of the condition. They typically comprise the following:

The apical portion of the tooth becomes apparent because the gum recedes. As a result, the teeth tend to have increased shadows. Exposed tooth roots can lead to the teeth becoming more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. Moreover, when brushing or flossing, the gums bleed easily. Once the gum as a part of the root is lost, the teeth can become loose or shift. Severe gum recession can expose the tooth root and result in notches or grooves in the teeth. Various measures can be employed to treat receding gums, which encompass addressing the source, preventing further recession, and replacing gum tissue.

Receding gums can be a sign of gum disease and should not be ignored. By learning the causes, symptoms, and treatment possibilities of receding gums, you can safeguard your oral health and avoid further damage. If you notice your gums receding has several symptoms, such as sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, or exposure from the roots, it is close to essential to visit the dentist immediately, which can help prevent further gum recession and also return the gums to health.