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What Are the Causes of Gum Recession?

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If you have noticed that your gums have receded, then the condition could have several causes. Gum recession can happen to anyone, no matter what their age. But with the right treatment, your dentist can help you to cure the condition so that your teeth and gums look healthy and attractive.

This article will discuss some of the most common causes of gum recession in both young and old people and how your dentist can help to fix the problem.

Old age

Over time, gums recede due to the normal wear and tear of everyday activities like eating and brushing. This is why gum recession can happen gradually as a person ages. If gum recession isn't too advanced in an older person, they may not need treatment. But you can opt for gum grafting if one or more areas of your gums have receded badly. This will help to protect the roots of your teeth.

Bruxism

Bruxism or nighttime grinding puts a lot of pressure on teeth. And this pressure can affect gum tissue and cause it to recede over time if nothing is done to treat bruxism. Your dentist can help you determine the cause of your bruxism issue so that you can treat the cause. For instance, if tooth misalignment is the cause, then you can undergo orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth.

Oral piercings

Young people sometimes have oral piercings in their tongues or lips. But metal studs and rings can rub against gum tissue and cause gum recession. If your oral piercing has caused gum recession, consider removing the piercing. If your gum tissue has receded badly, you can opt for gum grafting or gum veneers.

Crooked teeth

Both young and old people suffer from crooked teeth. When teeth don't come together properly because of one or more crooked teeth, more pressure is often placed on certain teeth. This can lead to gum recession. You might need to undergo orthodontic treatment to straighten a crooked tooth.

Poor oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which means that oral bacteria find their way under your gum tissue and cause it to recede. Gum recession of this type needs a dentist who is skilled at cleaning bacteria from under the gums, usually a periodontist. Once the gums have healed, you can undergo gum grafting to restore your gum tissue to its former position.

Poor brushing technique

If you brush your teeth too hard, something that young children sometimes do, you can damage the gum tissue and cause it to recede. Your dentist can teach you proper brushing and flossing techniques. They can also perform gum grafting or use gum veneers to restore your smile and protect your teeth.


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