Oral Health Link to Whole Body Health: A Blog

Everything You Need To Learn About Gum Recession

4 August 2022

Duane Kelly

Human teeth have delicate and sensitive parts underneath the tough white shells that you see. These delicate parts should not be exposed to foreign elements such as food because of the high risk of developing infections and tooth complications. Therefore, you need to learn about gum recession to help you understand the impact that this condition can have on your tooth. Essentially, gum recession refers to your gums pulling away from the teeth, exposing the delicate sections of the teeth. Severe recession reveals the roots and leaves spaces for bacteria and plaque to collect. The effect is more recession. 

Do you want to learn more? Keep reading for an in-depth analysis of gum recession:

The People At Risk

Gum recession can affect people across different age groups. However, it is common among the older generation above sixty-five years old, most of whom have weak gum muscles. Other people at risk of suffering from gum recession are: 

• People who have suffered from periodontal disease – Periodontal disease damages the soft tissue that makes up the gum and can even go as far as damaging the bones that support your teeth. Both elements increase the risk of gum recession at a later stage. 
• Orthodontic treatments and braces – Avoid going for orthodontic treatments and braces that put immense pressure on your teeth and gums. You should change the prescription whenever you feel it doesn't fit. Furthermore, brushing your teeth aggressively also weakens the gums and puts you at risk.

The Symptoms Of Gum Recession

Gum recession manifests itself in several ways. The most common sign is discomfort and pain along the gum line as the gum shifts from its natural position. Secondly, your gum line also becomes highly sensitive to cold and heat, as well as sweet foods. You will also feel sensitivity when flossing and brushing your teeth. Any of these symptoms are a clear indication that you need to see a dentist. If you leave them unchecked, things will only get worse. You will suffer from severe conditions such as tooth mobility and tooth loss.

Diagnosis And Treatment

The good news is that gum recession is treatable, and the treatment works better when a dentist makes the diagnosis early. Routine examinations are enough for your dentist to know if you are developing gum recession and in need of medication. Usually, topical antibiotics inserted directly into your gums will suffice for treating the condition. The dentist can also use dental bonding to camouflage the area with appropriate composite resin. The resin covers the exposed delicate parts and makes you feel more comfortable.

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