Gum recession means your gum tissue is receding away from your teeth. This may be happening for a few reasons, but gum disease is a common culprit.
Your dentist in Durham, NC, can help you avoid gum recession or treat the condition if it’s already there.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
- Aggressive brushing—When brushing your teeth, be gentle and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Piercings—Piercings on the lips or tongue can aggravate tissues leading to recession.
- Misaligned teeth—Misaligned teeth mean an uneven bite surface. Gums may recede in this case due to exaggerated wear and tear.
- Oral trauma—Injuries to the teeth and oral tissues can mean gums move away from the teeth.
- Accumulating tartar and plaque—Tartar and plaque are also common causes of cavities and gum disease.
- Tobacco Use—Tobacco leads to many oral health and body wellness issues, including gum recession.
- Periodontal disease—Periodontal disease may be the leading cause of receding gums.
Keeping Your Gums Healthy
The best way to keep gum tissue healthy is to eliminate bad habits and see your dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. Dental cleanings in Durham rid your gums and teeth of accumulated plaque and tartar. During your preventive visit, your hygienist can also show you gentler ways to brush your teeth that are effective and safe.
Additionally, if you sustain an oral injury, talk to your dentist and consistently report changes to your oral health, including an elongated appearance to the teeth or gum irritation.
Finally, we encourage our patients to cease tobacco use in all forms.
If you already have periodontal disease, your dentist will discuss treatment options to save your smile and prevent complications.
Periodontal Health and Treatment in Durham, NC
Call us today to schedule an appointment with the dentist or if you have questions for our team.