Many people assume that being “long in the tooth” is a natural rite of passage into their golden years. However, that’s not the case. Receding gumlines are typically a condition that can be prevented—or managed—with good home care and preventative dentistry.
Ideally your gum tissues should cover the entire root surface of your tooth, tapering off at the anatomical “crown” (the portion of your tooth that’s usually visible above the gums.)
If gums recede, it exposes the yellow-colored root surface which is more sensitive and prone to decay. But it also means the bone below it is resorbing, weakening the support around your tooth as a whole.
Gum tissues can recede due to a variety of reasons, such as:
Scrubbing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush can cause your gums to recede, as well as abrade your enamel.
Chronic teeth clenching and grinding can stress your teeth close to the gumlines, weakening the attachment tissues.
Accidental injuries that involve your face can cause permanent scarring in your gum tissues.
If teeth are crooked, they can pull and stretch your gums, causing them to creep down the root of your affected tooth.
Gum disease is the most common cause of recession. Bacterial deposits under the gum tissue cause the gums to detach from the tooth, creating deep “pockets” and destroying healthy adjacent tissues, causing the gumlines to appear as if they are “shrinking.”
Your periodontist may recommend one of several treatment options, or a combination thereof, to treat and manage your receding gumlines. Such as soft tissue grafting, Pinhole rejuvenation, periodontal therapy, laser treatment, or orthodontic appliances.
If you’re experiencing early to late stages of receding gums, contact a periodontist near you today.