Are you focusing your oral care on getting your teeth super-bright? If so, you may be neglecting the very foundation of your teeth – your gums.
Your gums are soft-tissue structures that help bind your teeth to the bone. Healthy gums provide a tight seal around each tooth to keep out harmful bacteria and food debris. When it comes to complete oral health, healthy teeth start at the bottom… of each tooth!
One serious problem that may develop is receding gums. With this condition, the gums around your teeth are being pulled back or are wearing away. When this happens, your teeth look longer because more of the tooth’s root is exposed. Ultimately the underlying bone may begin to break down, causing gum disease and tooth loss.
Tooth sensitivity when enjoying a cold drink or brushing your teeth is a common sign of receding gums. Other symptoms may include tender, red or swollen gums; visibly longer or loose teeth; bleeding when brushing or flossing; persistent bad breath; teeth that don’t fit together correctly.
Brushing Too Hard Is Among the Causes of Receding Gums
Yes, you can brush your teeth too hard! It’s best to brush teeth thoroughly but gentlytwice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Another cause of receding gums is eating foods that have too much sugar or are acidic such as citrus fruits, coffee and soda. These foods and drinks can irritate your gums and harm your tooth structure.
Those with gum disease may also experience receding gums as they deteriorate along with the supporting bone structure. Bruxism, or grinding your teeth, particularly at night, can damage tooth ligaments and surrounding gums.
If your parents have gum recession or gum disease, you may also be prone to this condition because of inherited thinner tissue.
Prevent Receding Gums Before You Have a Problem
Receding gums and gum disease are serious medical conditions that require prompt professional attention. To avoid reaching this stage, be proactive when it comes to gum health:
- Don’t make excuses about flossing. A once-a-day flossing can remove plaque and food particles along the gum line that your toothbrush won’t reach.
- Don’t miss 6-month dental cleanings and exams. But if you notice anything unusual with your gums or teeth between cleanings, give us a call.
Let Us Know If You Have Questions on Any Aspect of Oral Health Care
Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating and educating patients for over twenty-five years. Our office serves the New Fairfield, New Milford, Danbury, and Sherman areas of CT and Pawling, Patterson and Putnam Lake of New York. You can call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.