What Causes Gums to Recede?

Receding gums can be a problem. Receding gums can cause tooth sensitivity, bone loss and loss of a permanent tooth. Knowing what causes your gums to recede and what you can do to solve this problem can help you take care of your teeth. Here’s what you need to know.

What causes gums to recede?

There are many things that can cause gum recession. Below are some common reasons people have this problem.

  • Periodontal disease
  • Injury to the gums
  • Brushing too hard
  • Using a toothbrush with bristles that are too stiff
  • Build up of dental plaque or tartar
  • Tongue piercings and lip piercings
  • Tooth misalignment
  • Smoking
  • Tobacco use

Can you make a receding gum grow back?

Unfortunately, once your gums have receded, they will not grow back. There are things your dentist can do to restore your gums. You can also take preventative measures to stop your gums from receding more.

How can you prevent a receding gum from getting worse?

See your dentist for preventative dentistry in Sioux Falls, SD, twice a year. This can help prevent your gums from receding further. Another way to prevent your gums from receding is by using the right type of toothbrush and good tooth-brushing habits.

The next time you visit the dentist, ask your dentist to show you how to brush your teeth properly to be gentle on your gums while still fighting plaque and tartar. While you’re at it, switch to a soft bristle toothbrush, if you don’t have one already.

Have receding gums? Contact your dentist.

If your gums are receding, your dentist in Sioux Falls, SD, can help. At First Class Dental, we offer preventative treatments that can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Call today to make an appointment to see your dentist.

How to Prevent Bleeding Gums  

Bleeding gums may not be what you want to see when you’re brushing or flossing, but it also might not be as severe as you might think. Gums often bleed when they become inflamed, so it may just be a case of improving your hygiene and seeing more of your dentist in Sioux Falls, SD. We’ll look at what you can do to prevent this relatively common occurrence and why it’s so important to do so.

Brush and Floss More

The more plaque you have, the more inflamed your gums are likely to become. Brushing and flossing can limit the spread of bacteria, which can stop tooth decay and gum disease in its tracks. You should aim to brush at least twice a day and to floss at least once a day. Keep in mind that certain things, like pregnancy or puberty, can affect hormones and make you more susceptible to bleeding gums in Sioux Falls, SD.

Make Small Lifestyle Changes

There are a few changes that you can do to prevent bleeding gums. For instance, hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant and can be used to stop gum bleeding. Just a swig and gargle per day can help you fight everything from gingivitis to gum recession. Or up your consumption of spinach, kale, and collard greens, as these foods are high in Vitamin K. (You should also stop smoking, but that’s a bigger ask.)

Visit a Dentist in Sioux Falls, SD

If you’re looking for professional services to prevent bleeding gums, First Class Dental Care has Perio Protect, a custom-made tray that conforms to your mouth and gums. It’s a non-invasive and proven way to help you prevent periodontal disease (and, by extension, bleeding gums). To find out more about how to treat your gums, contact us today to schedule an appointment.