Receding gums usually isn’t the first thing people think of with their oral health. However, it’s a serious issue that can make teeth more sensitive and prone to cavities. Worse yet, it can increase your chances of tooth loss as well.
Dr. Daniel Park regularly diagnoses and treats gum recession at Beaumont Cherry Valley Dental in Beaumont, California.
Are your gums starting to recede? In this blog, Dr. Park shares the most common causes of this widespread problem and how he can help.
Your gums may not seem like a big deal, especially compared to your teeth. But they play an essential role in your mouth, including:
When the tissue begins to pull away from a tooth, it can leave tooth roots exposed. For some people, this problem only affects a single tooth. However, in others, it impacts several.
While anyone can experience gum recession, the problem becomes increasingly common in those over 65.
Several factors can increase your chances of developing this condition.
Estimates show that approximately 88% of people over 65 have receding gums and at least one tooth.
For many, the primary cause is gum disease and poor oral hygiene. That’s because bacteria in the mouth from plaque and tartar build-up can target weak spots in the mouth, especially soft tissue like the gum line.
When ignored, this can cause irreversible damage to your gums and even the supporting bones holding your teeth in place.
Additional causes of gum recession include:
It’s also possible to have a genetic predisposition toward gum recession, either from abnormal tooth position or simply because of thin gum tissue.
Gum recession can vary in severity from mild to severe. However, it always requires expert attention.
Dr. Park regularly checks gum tissue during dental visits and offers a variety of treatments to address the issue. For instance, if your oral hygiene habits are to blame for your tissue recession, Dr. Park can offer strategies, like gentler brushing techniques.
For gum recession associated with plaque and tartar build-up, Dr. Park usually recommends a thorough cleaning to eliminate debris and inflammation.
When gum recession becomes severe, Dr. Park could suggest oral surgery. These treatments can replace missing gum tissue with graft tissue, often taken from the roof of your mouth.
Do you have receding gums? Don’t wait to take action. Contact Beaumont Cherry Valley Dental by phone or online to schedule a visit with Dr. Park in Beaumont, California, today.
