What Causes Receding Gums?

Receding Gums: Causes & Prevention

At E11even Dental, we understand the impact that oral health issues can have on confidence, especially when it’s something painful or noticeable to other people. Receding gums were once thought to be an inevitable sign of ageing, assumed to be unavoidable with time. However, there are preventative measures and professional treatments that can address the issue and prevent your receding gums from deteriorating. 

If there is something about your oral health that doesn’t look or feel quite right, it’s always best to arrange a checkup at our dental practice in Harley District, London. As receding gums can be a sign of something more serious like gum disease, it’s important that you do not delay professional treatment.

We’ve put together some information on what causes receding gums and how you can prevent them below.

What Are Receding Gums?

Receding gums occur when your gums begin to pull away from the tooth. More of the tooth becomes visible, and hence teeth may look longer .

What Are The Signs Of Receding Gums?

Gum recession is a very slow process that most people don’t realise is happening until they begin to see the signs. One of the initial signs of receding gums is tooth sensitivity, but it begins to become noticeable as the tooth appears longer than it used to be. 

What Causes Receding Gums?

There are several factors that can contribute to causing receding gums. Although they can naturally occur with age, there’s a lot of other things that can cause receding gums too. Brushing too hard and poor oral health can both contribute to gum recession. Poor oral health can lead to periodontitis, resulting in the gums becoming inflamed due to plaque bacteria. If this is left untreated, the gums can begin to recede over time. Smoking, trauma or injury can also contribute to causing receding gums.

It’s also possible for genetics to play a role in gum recession. The volume and thickness of your gums can be inherited from your parents. If your parents had thin gum tissue, you are likely to have it too, which can put you at risk of gum recession. As genetics are unavoidable, taking care of your oral health is the best way to prevent receding gums. 

How To Prevent Receding Gums

The best way to prevent receding gums is to continue taking excellent care of your oral health. This involves brushing twice a day, using a soft-bristled brush and regularly visiting your dentist for checkups. Taking health measures like quitting smoking and avoiding fizzy drinks can also help to take good care of your oral hygiene.

If, however, you do notice signs of receding gums, it’s important to always schedule a routine checkup with your dentist and regular hygienist visits. If the cause of your receding gums is not addressed, it will inevitably lead to more serious oral health issues.

It must be noted that once gums have started to recede, they will not be able to grow back. This is why it’s so important to visit a dentist at the first sign of any issues. 

Professional Treatments

Once your gums have started to recede they will not grow back. However, there are still professional treatments to prevent them from receding any further and to get to the cause of the issue. The cause of your receding gums will always be treated first and then other issues will be considered further down the line. 

Regenerative Surgery: When the bone of your teeth has been destroyed due to receding gums, regenerative surgery is often recommended to encourage your gums to naturally regenerate bone and tissue to the area.

Deep Cleaning & Root Planing: If your case of gum recession is mild, your dentist may schedule a root planing or debridement. This is also known as a ‘deep clean’. During this procedure, the dentist will remove the harmful bacteria below your gumline. 

Tissue Graft: Your dentist will recommend the correct gum tissue graft procedure for you. A connective tissue graft is most common for receding gums and involves tissue being removed from under your skin elsewhere in your mouth. It is then later stitched to the affected gum tissue. 

There are also cosmetic options if you are still unhappy with your smile at the end of your procedure. For example, removable gum veneers will help to transform your smile.

Visit E11even Dental Today

Here at E11even Dental, our team of specialist dentists will make a comfortable environment for you to discuss any oral health issues you are facing. If you notice any signs of receding gums, do not hesitate to contact our practice immediately.

To learn more about how we can assist you in preventing receding gums, click here. Alternatively, speak to a member of our friendly reception team to arrange a consultation at our Harley District dental practice. Call us today on 0207 487 2711.