What causes receding gums?

What causes receding gums?

What causes receding gums?

Healthy gums should surround and tightly hug the teeth. Gum recession is the progression in which the border of the gum tissue that surrounds teeth wears away in a direction toward the end of the root. Gum recession is something that occurs gradually, and one of the first signs of gum recession is tooth sensitivity, or a tooth that looks longer than the others.

There are a number of causes for gum recession. Periodontal disease is the most common reason. Periodontal disease is a bacterial disease that eats away at the gum tissue and supporting bone structure that holds teeth and keeps them in place. Genetics also play a role in gum recession. Some people are just more susceptible to gum disease than others no matter how good their oral hygiene habits are.

Some other causes are:

- Aggressive tooth brushing. If you brush your teeth too hard or in a back-and-forth motion, this causes the tooth's enamel to wear away and cause your gums to recede.

- Insufficient brushing and flossing. Plaque on teeth to turn to tartar, a very hard substance, which can only be removed by dental cleanings. The build-up of tartar on and in between teeth causes gum recession.

- Hormonal changes in women make gums more sensitive and more susceptible to receding gums.

- Using tobacco causes a sticky plaque to build up on teeth which is very difficult to remove.

- A misaligned bite or crooked teeth may cause receding gums. Too much force is placed on gums and bones when teeth do not come together evenly.

- Clenching and grinding teeth. Just like a misaligned bite and crooked teeth, too much force is placed on teeth.

- Lip and/or tongue piercings. Body jewelry can rub and irritate gums so much that gum tissue wears away.

Receding gums is serious and not something to be ignored. Contact your dentist immediately if you suspect a problem with your gums and/or tooth sensitivity.

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