What Causes Gum Recession and How Your Orlando Periodontist Can Prevent It

It’s often a painful feeling when you have receding gums, and you might not know whether you can address the problem yourself, or seek the help of an Orlando periodontist. Depending on the severity of the condition, there are several steps you can take at home that serve as effective treatment for receding gums, before consulting a professional becomes necessary.

dental patient

Causes

Gum recession happens when gum tissue lowers its position on the tooth, exposing the roots of the teeth. This can be caused by any number of daily hygiene habits, and the method of treatment often depends upon the underlying cause of the issue.

Overly Aggressive Brushing or Flossing

While you should always be brushing regularly, brushing too vigorously can be harmful to your oral health. Try to use toothbrushes labeled “soft,” and be as gentle as possible on your teeth.

Genetics

Just as the rest of your body’s characteristics are determined by genetics, so are your gums’. If one or both of your parents have gum recession, you will be at a higher risk for receding gums.

Teeth Grinding

Do you find yourself frequently waking up with a headache? Have you heard complaints from your spouse or partner that you grind your teeth at night? Teeth grinding can be a primary cause of gum recession, and other dental maladies as well. If you suspect that you’ve been grinding your teeth, let your Orlando periodontist know right away. Teeth grinding can be easily treated with a mouth guard and other painless options.

Trauma to Gum Tissue

When a traumatic injury occurs involving one or more teeth, the gum tissue may recede. If an incident occurs that you suspect may have damaged your gum tissue, always consult a dental professional.

Treatment

The key to preventing gum recession is catching it early. The earlier you spot the issue, the less likely it is that you will require professional treatment to fix it. If the issue is minor, you will likely be simply instructed to re-evaluate your flossing habits, wear a mouth guard, or buy a more gentle toothbrush.

If the condition is more advanced, however, and you do need treatment, your Orlando periodontist will advise the best course of action. In addition to helping you change any poor dental hygiene habits, your dentist will also determine whether scaling and root planing–a special, deeper cleaning—will be necessary. This method of treatment is often utilized in cases where gum recession is caused by periodontitis. Depending on the cause of your gum recession, you may also have to have surgical treatment. This is called a gum graft, and will be conducted by your Orlando periodontist.

If you suspect that you are suffering from gum recession, it’s always a good first step to get a professional opinion. Central Florida Periodontics are the leading Orlando periodontists for treating gum recession. Reach out to us today to book an appointment.