Stop Receding Gums from Getting Worse
Can you stop receding gums? With a variety of treatments, precautions, and a few lifestyle changes a solution is definitely within reach. First you should assess how severe the gum recession is, what is causing it, and what steps you should take. The best way to do this is to be informed, and see your dental care team promptly.
What causes receding gums?
1. Periodontal disease- Periodontal disease is marked as diseases which interfere with the teeth, gums, and jaw. Many different conditions fall under this category, which includes receding gums. Some periodontal diseases are inherited, others are developed over time. Speak with your dentist about what they see, what changes in hygiene you need to take, and the severity of the disease.
2. Poor hygiene- Lack of dental hygiene creates opportunity for food particles to accumulate. As these pockets of debris form in between teeth and under the gumline, they fester and cause infection. Bacteria attacks healthy tissue and breaks it down to feed, which causes gum tissues to shrink and separate from the tooth. This process eventually leads to receding gums, tooth loss, and complex periodontal disease.
What are the symptoms of Receding Gums?
1. Pale, Discolored, or Thin gums- Your gums are so vital to the ecosystem of your mouth, they move the blood throughout your mouth. As disease attacks the tissue within your gums, the lack of blood flow leads to discoloration. The gums then shrink and pull away from the tooth, which creates the “long tooth” look.
2. Inflamed Gums- Bright red, puffy, irritated, or itchy gums can all be a sign of infection or receding gums as well. If infection takes hold within the tissues, the first response may to inflame the area. This is a warning sign you should pay attention to.
3. Pain- Pain is our natural alert to a problem. If the gums recede to a point where the root structures are exposed, patients will experience sharp and persistent pain. This pain may be constant or when exposed to high hot/cold temperatures
How can you stop receding gums?
Once you identify receding gums, or any noticeable change in your dental health, you need to make an appointment with your dentist. Dentists are your gateway to the dental medical world, and they know gum disease better than anyone. They will be able to examine your gums, listen to your signs and symptoms, and make predictions for the whole health of your mouth. They can then recommend treatment options and specialists that can help combat the spread of receding gums.
Treatment
Receding gums cannot be “fixed” but they can be treated. Your dentist will help identify the main culprit and advise on the necessary changes you should make. In some cases, gum tissue can actually be grafted to replace tissue that would otherwise never grow back. This is a long process, and if it is right for you your dentist or periodontist will be able to advise best. Some patients have also reported positive outcomes drinking green tea, applying healthy oils, and using medicated topical oral analgesics.