What Are Receding Gums – Dental Insurance PlusÂ
Receding gums is when your gums pull away from your teeth or draw downward, exposing parts of the tooth that your gums would typically conceal. Severe reducing gums issues may expose your tooth roots. Exposed tooth roots may also cause your teeth to become more sensitive or painful. Some of the factors that can increase your risk of receding gums can include:
- Gum disease
- Brushing too hard
- Aging
- Smoking/Chewing Tobacco
- Badly fitting dentures
- Damage from surgery or injury
- Genetic predispositions
The treatment for receding gums depends on the severity of the problem. If the condition is caught early, your dentist may recommend deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. Treatment involves removing the plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and smoothing the roots to prevent bacteria from accumulating.
In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend surgical procedures such as gum grafting to repair the damaged gum tissue or bone regeneration to promote the growth of new bone. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices and visit your dentist regularly to prevent the recurrence of receding gums.
