Receding gums are very serious, and the sooner you get on top of it the better. It’s important to make sure you have a solid oral hygiene routine, avoid certain risk factors such as smoking and clenching your teeth while sleeping (bruxism), and get regular checkups! The second stage of this disease is periodontitis, which starts when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and forms pockets that harbor harmful bacteria. The bacteria irritate the surrounding tissue and bones, which then destroys them. Eventually the tooth’s roots are exposed, which can lead to root sensitivity and cavities. This inflammatory condition is the primary cause of receding gums. Other causes of this condition are poor oral hygiene, smoking, eating foods high in sugar and starch, brushing too hard, and genetics.

A dentist can undo minor gum recession through a deep cleaning process called scaling and root planning, as well as cover exposed tooth roots with grafting techniques.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease or pyorrhea, is a chronic bacterial infection that destroys the bone and tissue that anchor teeth in place. This leads to loose teeth and eventually tooth loss. This inflammatory condition can be prevented by brushing, flossing, and having regular dental cleanings and checkups.

The first stage of this infection is gingivitis, which causes the gums to become red and puffy and bleed easily when brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene, a good diet, and regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is the routine practice of brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing, in addition to visiting the dentist for dental exams. Good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath (halitosis), swollen and bleeding gums, stained teeth, and more.

The mouth is full of germs that are normally kept under control by the body’s natural defenses and proper oral care. However, poor oral hygiene can allow these germs to enter the bloodstream and cause problems throughout the body.

Individuals with poor oral hygiene have a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart disease and stroke because bacteria from the mouth travels to other parts of the body, causing inflammation and blockages in blood vessels. Those with poor oral hygiene also have an increased risk of diabetes because gum disease increases the levels of glucose in the blood and may contribute to insulin resistance. Additionally, bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections and pneumonia.

Smoking

Smoking is a serious health hazard that can cause many diseases including gum disease and receding gums. Smoking restricts blood flow to the gums, reducing their ability to thrive and heal. Tar and nicotine stains the teeth, damages the enamel and promotes tooth decay. It also reduces saliva flow, which is needed to slow the build up of plaque and neutralise plaque acids. This allows gum disease to develop and progress much more rapidly in smokers.

Receding gums reveal more of the roots and can make the teeth extra sensitive. If you have a hard time eating cold or hot food, have difficulty with dental floss or are wincing at temperatures, it could be an early warning sign of gum recession. Getting regular oral health check-ups and quitting smoking will help. A restorative dental procedure called gum tissue grafting can cover the exposed roots and reduce sensitivity. This is not a permanent solution, but it will buy you some time while you focus on a long-term plan to stop gum disease.

Genetics

It’s not uncommon to receive physical traits from your parents such as eye color, hair color or even the shape of your nose. But what many people don’t realize is that receding gums can also be genetic.

There are many reasons why your genes may make you more susceptible to gum disease and receding gums. During puberty, pregnancy or menopause, fluctuating hormones can cause gum tissue to become sensitive and irritated. This sensitivity and irritation can lead to the growth of bacteria that eat away at healthy gum tissue resulting in gum recession.

You might also have a misaligned bite or crooked teeth that put extra strain on your gums. The constant pressure from chewing, biting and clenching can eventually cause the gum tissue to recede. Lastly, you might have a vitamin deficiency that can affect your teeth and gums such as a lack of calcium or zinc. A dental professional can prescribe a variety of medications or supplements that can help prevent receding gums and other oral health issues.