Gum Recession in Coconut Grove
by Dr. Stephen J. Parr D.D.S.
Read Gum Recession in Coconut Grove by Dr. Stephen J. Parr D.D.S. to learn more about Grove Smiles® Dentistry and our Dentistry office in Coconut Grove, FL.
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Gum recession can be daunting as it is a gradual process that can take decades before noticeable effects. But let us focus on how we can help prevent this by being proactive with our dental and oral healthcare.
Is Gum Recession Preventable?
Yes, gum recession is avoidable but, more importantly, controllable and treatable. Because There are many contributing factors to gum recession, and some, unfortunately, include genetics. Some people have fragile gums or do not have enough jaw bone covering the front of the roots of their teeth to support gums up to the crowns. The good news is that many of the other contributing factors are controllable, so even if you are predisposed to gum recession, there are ways to minimize it.
Grind Your Teeth?
Chronic teeth-grinding, or Bruxism, causes a whole host of problems for your oral health, and one of them is increasing your risk of gum recession. This is because all that grinding puts too much pressure on the gums, so they begin to retreat. Grinding your teeth can be a difficult habit to break, especially if you’re doing it in your sleep, but you can minimize the damage to the jawbones, gums, and teeth by using a mouthguard.
Watch the Over-Brushing
It might sound counterintuitive, but you can brush your teeth too much. Or, at least, too hard. Brushing teeth is not like scrubbing the grime out of tile grout; gums are not built to withstand the abrasive assault of hard-bristled brushes (and neither is the enamel on our teeth). On the other hand, soft bristles are ideal for scrubbing away plaque and massaging the gums without damaging them. The same principle applies to flossing; you should floss once a day, but go easy on those gums.
Tartar Build and Gum Disease
When plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it will eventually harden into tartar, which dental professionals can only remove. The longer you go without routine dental cleaning, the more tartar builds up along your gum lines, which puts you at more risk for gum disease.
In the beginning stages of gum disease, also known as gingivitis, the health of your jawbones is not yet at risk. However, if your gums are tender, swollen, and bleed easily, it’s likely gingivitis, which you can combat with healthy brushing and flossing habits, but it is also wise to bring the problem to us.
When gingivitis is left untreated, it advances to periodontitis. Periodontitis is when gums start pulling away from the teeth, and the integrity of the jaw bones is jeopardized.
There are many risk factors for gum disease, including smoking, hormonal changes (like during pregnancy), diabetes, and dry mouth as a side effect of medications. Better oral hygiene habits will not be enough at this point, and professional treatment is now necessary.
Help Us Help You Keep Those Gums Healthy!
Are you worried about the structure and health of your gums? If so, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with us at Grove Smiles Dentistry of Coconut Grove, FL! We can help you get your gum’s health back on track and discuss treatment options.
For Your Health,
Dr. Stephen J. Parr D.D.S.
