What Are Receding Gums?
Gum health is a neglected but vital component of oral health. One of the extremely common conditions that most people go through is gum recession, or receding of the gum line away from the teeth and exposing roots. It could lead to increased sensitivity, increased susceptibility to decay, and even tooth loss if left untreated. While age is likely to be accompanied by receding gums, it can also be caused by poor oral hygiene, brushing too hard, or illness.
The good news is that receding gums are preventable with the right approach. People can keep their gums and smile intact if they react early before receding gums become a problem. The following are six required tips for preventing receding gums and having long-lasting oral health.
Best 6 Tips for Preventing Receding Gums
- Proper and Gentle Brushing Techniques
Brushing every day is an ancient oral practice, but the method of brushing is as crucial as the number of times one brushes. Brushing vigorously is what everyone thinks will make the teeth clean, but brushing vigorously has been proven to wear away tooth enamel and pull gums back.
Prevention for this can be done by the patient employing a:
- Soft-bristled toothbrushes so they won’t hurt gums.
- Brushing with soft pressure and in a circular motion rather than side-to-side scrubbing.
- Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums so that it can remove plaque easily without damaging the gum line.
An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor is also beneficial, as it will not apply too much pressure but will still work effectively.
- Choose the Right Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Toothpaste includes dental care ingredients that are vital for gum health. Excessive harsh abrasives in toothpaste can destroy enamel and lead to gum inflammation, which, over time, may lead to recession.
When selecting toothpaste and mouthwash, the following should be done:
- Select fluoride toothpaste that prevents enamel hardening and resistance to decay.
- Shun alcohol-containing products as they dry out the mouth and make gums sensitive.
- Attempt to use sensitive-teeth toothpaste, which will be an added cushion for the exposed roots.
Utilize the mouthwashes with chlorhexidine or essential oils in a manner to assists in providing another protection against gum recession by preventing plaque formation.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups
Periodic visit to the dentist is a major contributor to the prevention of gum recession. The dentist will detect early cases of gum disease, provide professional cleaning of plaque and tartar, and provide oral habits.
The patients should:
- Visit the dentist every six months for professional check-ups and cleaning.
- Visit the dentist right away if having symptoms such as chronic bleeding gums, swelling, or tenderness.
- Adhere to the dentist’s advice for future treatment in the case of gum recession signs detected early.
Treatment early makes minute gum issues monolithic issues.
- Stop Smoking and Tobacco
The two most common causes of gum recession and gum disease are tobacco and smoking. Tobacco compounds decrease the quantity of blood that reaches the gums, leaving the gums more exposed to infection and less capable of healing.
One of the most significant actions to take for individuals who desire to preserve their gums is to stop smoking. The benefits of stopping smoking include:
- Improved gum health and reduced inflammation.
- Reduced risk of periodontal disease.
- Improved oral and overall systemic health.
Health care professionals’ help, nicotine replacement therapy, and habits can help quit.
- Preserve Teeth from Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism, or grinding, is a habit that frequently occurs and can cause discomfort in the form of gum recession. The pressure exerted on gums and teeth during grinding reduces the supporting tissues’ strength, resulting in gum trauma.
Prevention of gum recession caused by bruxism is maintained by patients with:
- The wearing of a night guard is custom-designed to reduce the pressure on the gums and teeth.
- Participation in stress-reducing techniques like meditation or deliberate breathing exercises in an attempt to reduce the occurrence of clenching episodes.
- See a dentist if experiencing signs of bruxism, or jaw or worn teeth pain.
The early treatment of tarting and gnashing will prevent damage to the teeth and gums in the future.
- Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet
Healthy nutrition is also a primary element of health, including having healthy gums. There are specific nutrients that help in a way that will provide strong gums that are better resistant to infection.
Do the following to maintain healthy gums:
- Consume food rich in vitamin C (fruits, bell peppers, greens) to strengthen gum tissues.
- Consume sufficient calcium from milk and dairy products, nuts, and processed foods with fortified vitamins and minerals to strengthen the bones and teeth.
- Condition the mouth well by consuming excess water for removal of disease-causing bacteria found on gums.
It is also important to prevent excessive intake of sugar because sugar resides on destructive bacteria that lead to gum recession and infection.
Receding gums are not reversible, yet it is also mostly avoidable with good oral hygiene. Following these six steps on preventing receding gums, one can keep his or her mouth clean and avoid the ache and effects of receding gums.
From proper brushing to good eating, every little change made daily yields significant benefits. Periodic dental checkups, smoking cessation, and stress-related behaviors like grinding are factors that help prevent gums from being unhealthy.
Finally, this day’s cleanliness can lead to healthier gums and a healthy smile tomorrow.
