Receding Gum Prevention

Dental health is an important part of overall health. One way to keep teeth and gums in good shape is to prevent receding gums. When gums recede, it reveals the root of the tooth and can make teeth vulnerable to decay, which can lead to tooth loss. There are ways to prevent gums from receding and it's possible to reverse some gum loss with the proper dental care.

Causes

There are several causes for receding gums, including aging, defective fillings, diseases such as diabetes and some medications, such as oral contraceptives. Tobacco use and eating a poor diet can lead to receding gums. Crooked teeth can also cause gums to recede. Receding gums are most often caused by periodontal disease. This condition begins when plaque buildup on teeth and gums, caused by bacteria, isn't removed daily. This irritates and inflames gums. There are two stages of this disease: the more severe form, periodontitis and the reversible stage, gingivitis. Another of the most common causes of receding gums is brushing teeth too aggressively. According to WorlDental.org, a dental health magazine, two out of three people brush too hard, pushing the gums away from the teeth.

Prevention

There are ways to prevent receding gums. Most important is to see a dentist for regular dental hygiene. Experts recommend seeing your dentist every six months. A dentist can check your gums to see if they are receding. A dentist can also help correct any crooked teeth. At home, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and don't brush too hard. The California Dental Association also recommends that brushers stick to small, circular strokes or short strokes back and forth. Brush at least each morning and each evening, but after every meal if you can. Be sure to brush for two to three minutes each time.

Be sure to include your tongue when you brush, gently running your toothbrush from the back to the front a couple of times to help remove bacteria.

It is also important to floss daily. Be sure not to push the floss into the gum line too harshly; this can also injure gums. Don't forget to floss behind your back teeth.

Eat a balanced diet. Avoid sugary foods such as cookies, candy and pie. Hard candies stay in the mouth a long time so avoid those. Also limit starchy foods such as crackers and bread sticks, as they tend to stick to teeth. Choose sugar-free gum to chew.

Following these recommendations with those of your dentist can help restore gums to a healthy state.

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