Your oral health has a huge impact on your entire body. In fact, the health of your mouth is a great indicator of your general health. When issues or concerns arise with your oral health, it is important that you bring them to your dentist’s attention so that early intervention can be given before serious consequences occur to your mouth and the rest of your body. Gum recession is an oral health concern that many people overlook because they do not know the severe repercussions that can result. Your gum tissue plays two vital roles: stabilizing your teeth in the jaw bone and protecting the roots and nerve fibers of the teeth. When gum recession occurs, the health of your entire mouth can become compromised.
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissues begin to pull away from the teeth. Every tooth is an individual living feature with its own lifeline. When the gum tissues that are supposed to be protecting the roots of the tooth become exposed, extreme pain and discomfort will be felt and the life of the tooth is in danger. Tooth sensitivity is the most common symptom of gum recession because the roots and nerves of the teeth are exposed to temperature changes and biting pressure. The human body is designed to give warnings when things are awry, and tooth sensitivity is one of those indicators. With early intervention, gum recession can be corrected through effective treatment.
Common causes of gum recession:
- Aggressive brushing – Brushing the teeth with too much pressure causes damage to the gums, prompting them to pull away from the teeth.
- Improper oral hygiene – If you are not flossing daily, bacterial growth (known as plaque) is building up at the gum line and attacking the gums.
- Gum disease – With continued plaque development, the gums will become infected by acid-producing bacteria that can cause irreversible damage to the gum tissues.
- Genetics – If there is a family history of gum recession or gum disease in your family, you are more susceptible to suffering from the same condition.
- Crooked teeth – Straight teeth are more than just attractive, they are easier to clean. Plaque builds up in significant amounts where teeth are difficult to reach.
- Hormonal changes – Fluctuations in hormonal levels trigger changes in the gums. Women are more vulnerable to hormone related gum recession due to the extreme hormonal changes that they experience throughout their lives.
Contact Green Dental of Alexandria if you notice any symptoms of gum recession.
Posted on behalf of Dr. Hye Park, Green Dental of Alexandria
Green Dental of Alexandria – Alexandria Dentist
1725 Duke St, Suite GR03
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 549-1725