Receding Gums: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Gum health is a vital aspect of maintaining optimal oral care. One gum-related issue Islington Dental Clinic in Toronto urges patients to look out for and promptly treat is gum recession.

Receding Gums Overview

When one's gums recede, the amount of gum tissue surrounding their teeth gradually erodes. As the condition progresses, a greater number of tooth components, especially the roots gain greater exposure to bacteria, plaque, tartar, and other potentially detrimental particles.

Causes

Gum recession may be attributed to numerous causes, including genetics, the use of tobacco products, increased alcohol intake, brushing one's teeth with excessive force, poor dental hygiene, failing to receive routine professional dental care, hormonal imbalances, age, dental abnormalities like misaligned or crooked teeth, and adherence to bad habits such as tooth grinding or jaw clenching.

Symptoms

In addition to gum line disintegration, impacted individuals might experience other noticeable physical manifestations including:

Loose Teeth

As gums recede, the tooth's inner structures are no longer held in place, which often precipitates loosening and, in severe instances, tooth loss.

Discomfort

Gum recession often leaves a tooth's roots and nerves exposed. Ergo, simple acts like eating and drinking could become painful.

Complications

This lack of protection increases the stricken subject's chances of developing maladies like tooth decay, dental infections, and gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Additionally, receding gums could have a significantly adverse impact upon one's smile and general personal aesthetics.

Treatment Options

Treatment will depend on how severe the recession is and if other complications are present. Mild cases are typically remediated using dental techniques like scaling and root planing. These efforts keep exposed areas clean and safeguard against the buildup of bacteria and plaque. More severe instances might require gum surgery. Specific interventions employed include regeneration, open flap scaling, and soft tissue grafting.

Prevention

Not all cases can be prevented. However, patients at the Islington Dental Clinic in Toronto might reduce their chances of developing the condition by not smoking, consuming a healthy diet, practicing solid dental hygiene, controlling habits teeth grinding and jaw clenching, and receiving routine professional care.

Contacting Us

Those living in Toronto, Greater Toronto Area, and surrounding regions are urged to visit us at Islington Dental Clinic any signs of symptoms of receding gums are experienced. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.