Receding gums: how to treat gingival recession

Receding gums, also called gingival recession, are due to a progressive diminuation of the gingival tissue. Gradually the root of the tooth becomes visible and the teeth appear longer.

Too much retraction of the gingiva can lead to a lossening of the teeth and permanent loss since when gingival recession occurs, there is also a loss of bone under the gum.

When teeth come loose, the periodontium can no longer protect dental fixation. The periodontium is composed of different tissues that all play a role in the maintenance of the teeth: the alveolar bone, the cementum, the gum and the alveolar-dental ligament.

Receding gums: what are the causes?

The gum covers the root of the teeth and the alveolar bone that holds them at the level of the jaw. The finer it is, the more vulnerable it is to potential aggressions. Thus, several factors can result in receding gums:

• Ageing: with age, the gum is less well irrigated and ends up being tapered and recedes. Gingival recession is more common in adults over the age of forty but the process can begin as early as adolescence
• Inadequate brushing: brushing too vigorously or using the wrong technique can erode tooth enamel and irritate gingival tissue
• Poor oral hygiene: irregular or insufficient brushing of the teeth encourages the appearance of bacteria (plaque) in the mouth. This can result in periodontal disease which encourages gum infection and attacks the underlying bone
• Certain habits: nail biting, teeth grinding (bruxism), chewing gum, etc. can eventually have an adverse effect on the thickness of the gums and cause them to shrink
• Piercings: a piercing on the tongue or lip can irritate the gum until it erodes
• Smoking: nicotine, so often associated with poor oral hygiene, affects the thickness of the gums

Receding gums: how to prevent them

Loss of teeth can have serious consequences on your physical and psychological well-being thus, when you notice the first symptoms of receding gums, it is better not to ignore them and consult a dentist.

You will need to make an appointment with a dentist when you notice signs of receding gums such as:

• The appearance of small spaces between the teeth
• Hypersensitivity of the teeth especially with regard to temperature variations, sweet foods or even to touch
• Bleeding or inflammation of the gums
• Bad breath
• Tooth roots are highly visible
• A modified smile where the teeth are longer than before