If you notice that your teeth look longer, you may have gum recession. Receding gums mean that your gum tissue pulls away, or recedes, from your teeth. While the initial stages of gum recession typically only cause cosmetic issues, once it progresses, your gums may not be healthy enough to protect your teeth from cavities. Receding gums may also cause bleeding gums and bad breath. Here are some common causes of gum recession and what you can do about them:

Incorrect Oral Hygiene Techniques

Neglecting your oral hygiene by not brushing and flossing on a regular basis is a major cause of gum recession. However, even if you do brush and floss your teeth regularly, your technique may be contributing to receding gums. When you apply too much pressure when you brush your teeth, especially if you use a hard-bristled toothbrush, your gums may start to recede. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will help prevent gum irritation and recession.

Also, some soft-bristled toothbrushes are made from non-abrasive materials such as silicone, which may be less damaging to your teeth and gums than traditional nylon-bristled toothbrushes. You can also massage your gums with silicone-bristled toothbrushes, which may help slow or prevent gingivitis and receding gums by promoting optimal blood flow and circulation.  

Diabetes

Another cause of gum recession is diabetes, especially diabetes that is not well-controlled or long-standing diabetes. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing poor circulation, which can raise their risks for gingivitis, periodontitis, and gum recession. If you have diabetes, see your dentist on a regular basis, who will closely monitor your gums for signs of gingivitis and gum recession. Also, take all of your prescribed diabetes medication, follow your diabetic diet, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and try to manage your stress. These interventions will help keep your blood sugar levels under control and may help improve your overall circulation so that you can lower your risk for cardiovascular, renal, and gum diseases, including gum recession. If you have severe gum recession as a result of your diabetes, your dentist may recommend that you see a periodontist, a dental specialist whose practice is limited to the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.

If your gums are receding, make an appointment with your dentist. When gum recession is recognized and treated quickly, you will be less likely to develop complications such as periodontitis, oral infections, and cavities. If this will be your first visit or if you are looking for a new dentist, contact an office like Cobbe Dental & Orthodontics.