When the gums start to wear away and you appear to have a ‘toothy’ smile, you may need to undergo treatment to restore the gum line. Gum recession is one of the side effects of periodontal disease and can be treated with the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™) or traditional gum surgery procedures. Neglecting treatment can put your oral health at risk.
Signs of Gum Recession
One of the most common signs of gum recession is sensitive teeth. Your teeth might start to look longer than normal or you may notice a small notch developing at the gum line. If you are noticing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kent as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
Your gums can recede for several reasons, including:
- Periodontal disease
- An active infection in your mouth, this condition is characterized by loss of supporting bone and other structures, and will often cause your gums to recede.
- Genetics
- Some people have a genetic predisposition towards developing gum disease which is the primary cause of gum recession.
- Brushing technique
- Using the wrong tooth brushing technique or being overly aggressive can wear down the gums.
- Poor dental hygiene
- If you are not taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, you may be at risk for developing gum disease and therefore gum recession.
- Hormones
- Changing hormone levels can impact the gums, at times leading to recession.
- Tobacco use
- Smoking and chewing tobacco have a very negative effect on the gum tissues and often cause gum recession.
- Bruxism
- Habits of grinding and clenching the teeth place undue pressure on the gums and teeth, and may lead to receding gum tissues.
- Misalignment
- Crooked or misaligned teeth can cause gum damage in associated areas.
- Body jewelry
- Lip and tongue jewelry that comes into constant contact with the gums can wear them down, resulting in recession.
- Orthodontic treatment
- Shifting teeth during orthodontic treatment can cause gum recession.
To most effectively prevent the occurrence of gum recession, it is important to have a clear understanding of the causative factors. For more information about the causes of gum recession in Birmingham, AL, schedule your consultation with Dr. Kent today!