Over time, receding gum lines can expose more of your teeth, causing them to appear longer than usual. It can also reveal the roots, resulting in extreme sensitivity to temperatures. As the margin of your gum tissues continues to wear away, your gum pockets can deepen and cause your teeth to become loose. If left untreated, the gaps forming between your gums and teeth can cause mouth bacteria to build up. This can damage your teeth and lead to tooth loss. Are you wondering what causes receding gums and how they can be treated? Read on to learn more about what you can do to avoid this dental issue.

Why Do Gums Pull Back?

• Incorrect Brushing. Brushing your teeth twice a day is crucial for promoting good dental health. If you brush your teeth too hard or using the wrong techniques, your gingival margin may become inflamed and cause gum recession.
• Gum Disease. This refers to the infection and inflammation of your gums and their surrounding structures in your mouth. There are many reasons why you may develop gum disease. These include poor oral hygiene, genetics, and certain immune disorders.
• Teeth Grinding or Clenching. Are you one of those people who grind or clench their teeth while sleeping? If so, the motion of teeth grinding or clenching can put so much pressure on your gums, causing them to pull back gradually. It may also cause the teeth to become loose. 

Other potential causes of gum recession are ill-fitting partial dentures and teeth that aren't in proper alignment. Both can force your gum tissues to move out of place. Your gums may also recede once you sustain direct trauma to the mouth. These include sports-related injuries, falls, and other accidents. You're also at an increased risk for receding gums if you smoke or chew tobacco. 

How Is It Treated?

Treatment for receding gums largely depends on what caused the problem and how far your gums have pulled back. If your gums are receding because of poor oral hygiene, your dentist can talk to you about changing your brushing behaviors. They may recommend appropriate interdental cleaners and mouthwash to keep even the hard-to-reach areas in your mouth clean and fresh. 

For mild cases of gum recession, occasional deep cleaning treatments will help keep mouth bacteria from forming in your gum pockets. Scaling and root planning are crucial in getting rid of dental plaque and tartar. For more advanced cases, grafting procedures and regenerative options may be recommended to restore your gum tissues. 

Tips to Prevent Gum Recession

Practicing good oral hygiene is the best way to keep your gums from receding - by brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. When you brush, try paying attention to your gum line. Be thorough, but gentle as too much pressure can damage the gums. Floss in between your teeth once a day and ensure that you visit your dentist twice a year or as advised for a professional dental cleaning and other treatments. A healthy lifestyle also helps in preventing gum recession. Eat a balanced diet, quit smoking, and limit your alcohol intake. 

Do you want to schedule your dental check-up? Visit our oral health care professionals today at SmileOn Dentistry in Marina del Rey, California. Call us today at (310) 881-8780.