Ways To Prevent Gum Recession From Getting Worse

Gum recession is a common but serious dental problem where gum tissue pulls away from teeth. If you’ve noticed early warning signs of gum recession, it’s time to take action.

Why Stop Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs gradually. If left untreated, your gums and teeth can experience severe damage, resulting in frequent cavities and even tooth loss. Receding gums cannot grow back on their own, making it critical to catch and stop gum recession as soon as possible. Luckily, there are ways to prevent gum recession from getting worse once it starts.

Visit Your Dentist

If you’ve noticed signs of gum recession—such as increased sensitivity or visible teeth roots—set up an appointment with your dentist. Your provider can diagnose your gum recession, let you know what treatment options are available, and make recommendations for improving your oral health. Depending on how advanced your gum recession is, your dentist may recommend preventative or restorative treatments, including antibiotics, gum grafts, or veneers. Proper care is the key to managing gum recession and its impact, so it’s important to get an expert on board early on.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Though some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease, others develop gum recession due to poor oral hygiene. Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and visiting your dentist for cleanings every six months will prevent your gum recession from worsening. A good oral hygiene routine will also help to alleviate sensitivity caused by gum recession.

Stop Smoking

Smoking causes gum disease to get worse at a much faster rate than in non-smokers. Nicotine and tar in cigarettes cause plaque to build up on teeth, which irritates the gums. Furthermore, smoking weakens your body’s ability to fight off gum infections. Smoking also impairs treatments for gum recession, making quitting a huge step in the right direction to prevent gum recession from worsening.

Gum disease is a serious dental problem that can cause permanent damage to your smile. If you’ve noticed warning signs of your gums receding, remember to keep up with your dental hygiene routines and appointments to prevent the disease from progressing.