Gum Recession Could Shorten the Life of Your Teeth

Teeth are resilient thanks, in part, to the enamel, the hardest substance in the body. With proper care and attention, teeth will function and look attractive for the better part of one’s life.

Gums also play an important role in this resilience. In addition to framing the teeth, the gums also protect the dentin and the roots below the enamel. However, gums can recede and expose the teeth to bacteria and disease and cause sensitivity to temperature change and bite pressure.

What Causes Gum Recession?

There are some causes of gum recession that cannot be controlled. Sometimes, thin gum tissue is genetic, and this thin tissue is delicate and susceptible to recede from the teeth. There are cases where teeth grow off center from their bone casing, and the gums may not properly develop around the teeth.

Often, though, the causes of gum recession can be controlled, like over-aggressive brushing. Brushing too long with a hard-bristled brush will injure the gums and cause them to recede. Most likely, the cause of gum recession is improper and inadequate oral hygiene.

Reduce Your Risk of Gum Recession

Proper and consistent oral hygiene involves the gentle brushing with a soft-bristled tooth brush for at least two minutes, twice per day. Flossing should be done before each brushing. Effective oral hygiene includes semi-annual dental exams for cleanings and x-rays.

If teeth are not properly maintained, a thing film of bacteria and food remnants, or plaque, accumulate and build up on the enamel and in between teeth. This condition will lead to gum disease causing the gums recede.

If you have an improper bite, you may want to consider orthodontic treatment. It is harder to remove plaque with a bite misalignment.

The dentists and the healthcare staff at Golnick Pediatric Dentistry are trusted and highly recommended in the care of gum disease and orthodontic treatment.

If your child is experiencing bleeding or swelling gums, then please call Golnick Pediatric to schedule an appointment at either the Taylor or the West Bloomfield offices in Southeast Michigan. The kid-friendly offices and the staff’s approach to children’s dental needs will make the experience comfortable and relaxed.