Many dental patients are rightfully concerned with potential gum recession. Gum recession is when the margin of the gums begins to pull away and move down the tooth. This exposes more of the tooth structure and leaves your teeth and underlying bone more exposed to possible infection or disease. Additionally, as the gum recedes, it creates pockets that can trap food particles and bacteria. These pockets are also difficult to clean regularly, so the potential to damage your tooth is further increased.

If gum recession continues to go untreated, the possibility of tooth damage or loss is increased. Fortunately, understanding the signs of gum recession and knowing what you can do to prevent this from happening to you can help to reduce the chances that you ever have a problem. It also helps to identify gum recession in the early stages so that your Denver dentist can quickly intervene.

Why Does Gum Recession Occur?

There are several factors that can lead to gum recession, or that may make you more prone to being affected by this condition.

• Periodontal Disease – Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and structures that help keep your teeth in place. Periodontal disease usually begins in the gums and then progresses if untreated. Inflamed, irritated, or infected gums that can’t heal will begin to recede over time.
• Genetics – Some studies suggest that around 30% of the population is more susceptible to gum disease regardless of their dental hygiene practices. This means that even if you have great dental practices, that you may notice gum recession. It is important to schedule and attend your dental appointments every six months to keep on top of gum recession.
• Aggressive Brushing – Many people believe that brushing their teeth and gums vigorously helps to clean them and stimulates healing. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Vigorous brushing can physically push the gums down the teeth and doesn’t allow them to adhere to your teeth naturally. Also, using a toothbrush that is too stiff can pull the gums away and down your teeth. Talk to your Denver dentist about what the best toothbrush stiffness is for you.
• Inadequate Dental Care – Improper home care can be a significant factor in your susceptibility to gum recession. It is important to brush twice daily and floss daily to help keep infection at bay. Additionally, making sure that you visit your dentist every six months can help to catch any issues, and clear away the tartar and plaque on your teeth that you have been missing.
• Gender – Unfortunately, women are more susceptible to gum recession as well. This is due in large part to the hormone changes that women experience throughout their lives. Women should be especially vigilant in their dental care when going through puberty, pregnancy, and menopause because the hormonal fluctuations during these periods are much higher.

Preventing Gum Recession

If gum recession is caught in the early stages, you can often reverse course by maintaining a healthy regimen of brushing and flossing. Your dentist in Denver may also recommend a deep cleaning. Deep cleanings are processes that scale the teeth and remove any plaque or tartar that has built up on the surface of the tooth and the root. When plaque or tartar is on the tooth, it doesn’t allow the gums to naturally attach to the tooth, so by removing this material; your gums can begin to heal and reattach themselves.

If the previous options don’t stop gum recession, your Denver dentist may suggest surgery. There are many different types of surgeries that are available to help heal and restore your gums, so you should visit your dentist to explore your options.

Overview

If you think that you have any stage of gum recession or are just concerned about the likelihood of gum recession, schedule an appointment with your Denver dentist today. Dr. Barotz at Barotz Dental can evaluate the health of your gums and teeth and help to give you personalized advice to make sure that your oral health is in top condition.  Call 720-573-1500 to schedule a consultation.