Receding gum tissues pose a serious threat to your oral health and may affect your appearance. Periodontal disease is probably the widest known cause of receding gums, but gingival tissues recede naturally with age, as well. Luckily, maintaining proactivity with your preventive dental care will help you to avoid issues with gum recession. Sheridan dentists, Dr. Cody Coon, Dr. Justin Coon, and Dr. Donald Coon, explain gum recession, and what you can do about it if the issue strikes your smile.
Gum Recession Dangers
When gums wear away and pull away from teeth, we call this gum recession. Receding gums expose more of the tooth so that the tooth looks longer. As the gums recede, tooth sensitivity can occur. If untreated, teeth can be lost. Without a tooth to support, the bone underneath is endangered. Your tooth acts as a signaling beacon for nutrients that are sent to the jawbone. When the body senses no tooth, nutrients are sent elsewhere, and the jawbone density can diminish. This can lead to facial collapse, over time, wherein the cheeks take on a sunken look which causes a more aged appearance.
How to Prevent Gum Recession
Proper brushing and flossing can help to prevent gum recession. For patients of all ages, but particularly aging patients, brushing and flossing will help to keep as much gum tissue intact as possible. Some recession will possibly still occur over time, but proactive oral hygiene and dental care can slow, or even stop this process. Brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing once a day, and using a mouthwash approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) are good habits to start with. Getting in to see your dentist every six months (or more often if your dentist believes you would benefit from it) will ensure that any dental problems that should flare up will be caught early.
Visit your Sheridan Dentist
Are you concerned with gum disease or gum recession? Are you overdue for a dental checkup or curious about cosmetic dental options? For any comprehensive dentistry services, contact Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, Wyoming at (307) 672-7567.
