Receding Gums? Know How to Prevent it

Receding gums (also known as “gingival recession”) is a condition where the gums pull back from the tooth surface. It exposes the root surfaces of teeth. This type of gum disease can be due to numerous factors – genetics, smoking, and harsh brushing. The periodontist or the oral surgeon can treat and prevent it from turning worse.

What to Do to Prevent Gum Recession?

Consider the following ways to minimize the risk of gum recession:

Ensure Routine Dental Visits

Regular dental checkup in Phoenix twice a year is also essential. Both gum diseases and decay are the main causes of receding gums. The family dentist in Phoenix is an expert in preventive dentistry in Phoenix, AZ. He/she will help you identify the early symptoms of gum disease and decay and recommend a suitable treatment to prevent it from developing further.

During your dental appointment, the professional will eradicate tartar accumulation with special methods and tools. He/she will monitor the changes that may occur in the mouth.

Quit Using Tobacco Products and Smoking

Smoking and the use of tobacco products cause receding gums. That is why smokers usually have more tartar and plaque accumulation in the mouth. It ultimately declines dental health.

Practice Good Gum and Teeth Care

Following good oral hygiene habits is the best way to minimize the chances of decay, periodontal diseases, and tooth loss. By taking care of your oral health, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection-related gum recession:

• Floss once daily to keep your mouth healthy.
• Brush thoroughly twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
• Stick to the recommendation for professional teeth cleaning from the dentists at Encanto Family Dental Care.
• Use antimicrobial mouthwash two times a day to fight further plaque accumulation.
• Avoid brushing harshly because it can damage your gums and teeth. So, brush gently and consistently using a soft-bristled brush.
• Pick a shape and size of the toothbrush that lets you access every area of your mouth.
• Replace your brush at least every two to four months.

Treat Bruxism

Bruxism is a condition that occurs when an individual constantly grinds or clenches his/her teeth. Since it puts pressure on the gums and teeth, this makes the gums likely to recede.

A splint or a mouthguard is an effective way to prevent nighttime gum recession due to teeth grinding. These customized devices create pressure across the jaw and serve as a barrier to the bottom and top teeth.

Eliminate Tongue and Lip Piercings

Tongue and lip piercings rub the gums. It irritates and can make the gums wear out, resulting in a gum recession. Therefore, the dentist usually recommends removing your tongue or lip piercings to prevent the condition from occurring.

Choose a Healthy Diet

Choosing a well-balanced diet will help you achieve a healthy smile for longer. But there are certain foods to avoid to minimize or prevent the signs of gum recession. These include extremely cold and hot things, starches, sugary-based things, and acidic items.

Get Braces Treatment

If you have crowded teeth, you are more prone to gum recession. But getting braces will help you prevent the condition while ensuring straight teeth. The treatment makes teeth cleaning easier. It ultimately results in a healthy mouth.

Use Right Brushing Method

Incorrect brushing techniques can make your gums recede. Therefore, it is essential to use the right method. As per the American Dental Association, you can consider the following pointers:

• Put brush against the gums at a 45-degree angle.
• Apply gentle pressure by sweeping the toothbrush forth and back using tight and tiny strokes.
• Now focus on brushing the inner and outer chewing surfaces of teeth.
• Make sure you hold the toothbrush vertically when cleaning the inner surfaces of the front teeth.
• Brush for around 2 minutes in total.

Replace Ill-Fitting Dentures

Dentures that do not fit properly can rub the gums. It irritates and makes the gums recede surrounding the healthy teeth. With time, partial dentures can become incompatible with the mouth. It can be due to differences in the alignment of the jaw, shrinking of gum and bone ridges, and general wear and tear of dentures. By replacing your ill-fitted dentures, you can successfully prevent gum recession.