Many people struggle with their dental health and it is something that will worsen very quickly if gone untreated. Receding gums is a common challenge for many adults and can become incredibly painful, making it imperative for you to seek out a cosmetic dentist in Rochester.
When gums recede, they pull away from the tooth and leave more of the tooth (and even the root) exposed.[1]
This can be caused by a multitude of factors, such as: [1]
- Periodontal disease
- Genetics
- Aggressive tooth brushing
- Insufficient dental care
- Hormonal changes
- Tobacco products
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Crooked bite
- Tongue or lip piercing
Any of the activities above can cause your gums to begin to recede or, in other words, pull back. When gum recession occurs, you may experience discomfort, but more importantly, it may lead to more severe dental problems down the road. If you believe your gums are beginning to recede, it’s important that you contact a periodontist for an appointment.
Signs You May Need a Soft Tissue Graft
Surprisingly, gum recession can often go unnoticed because the change happens gradually, so it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. If the cause of your receding gums is treated quickly, it can not only relieve you of any discomfort but prevent future dental issues from arising. If you are unsure if your gums are receding, look for these signs.[1]
- A tooth appears longer than normal
- Unusual sensitivity to cold and/or heat
- Loose teeth
If your symptoms are past the point of just needing extra self-care, don’t worry! Talk to your periodontist about the steps you can take together, such as a soft tissue graft, to repair your gums and strengthen your teeth’s foundation.
What Happens if l Don’t Have Gum Recession Treated?
If early gum recession goes unaddressed, larger gaps will begin to form between your teeth that allow disease-causing bacteria to build up,[1] putting you at risk for developing gingivitis and, even worse, advanced periodontal disease. At these stages, you will notice more pressing symptoms, with possible longer-lasting consequences, such as.[2]
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Tooth loss
- Jaw bone deterioration
47.2% of adults over the age of 30 suffer from a level of periodontal disease, and 70.1% of adults over 65.[2] As you can see, gum recession and the chances of developing periodontal disease is extremely common, but there are steps you can take to prevent your gums from receding or to keep your condition from escalating (if you’ve already noticed a change), such as:[1]
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Talk to your periodontist about how to prevent grinding your teeth or how to correct a crooked bite
- Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
- Cut back or stop smoking (if you do smoke)
- Follow your periodontist’s recommendations for regular checkups and professional cleanings
No matter what your current dental health is at, issues can develop and appear seemingly out of nowhere. It’s important to remember to properly care for your teeth, visit your periodontist regularly, and always monitor for changes.
Finding a Cosmetic Dentist in Rochester
A dazzling smile is the first thing someone should notice about you, and at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health, we strive to give you just that! We offer an array of services, including Soft Tissue Graft, that will keep your dental health in tip-top shape and leave you feeling healthy, protected, and at peace with your dental hygiene. To learn more about the services we offer, our amazing team, and what Dental Implants & Periodontal Health can do for you, contact us online or by phone at 585-685-2005. Together, we’ll take back your dental health and give you a smile that beams confidence and strength like never before!
Sources:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/receding_gums_causes-treatments
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html#Warning
