Did you know that brushing too vigorously can cause gum recession and expose the roots of your teeth? If not, then keep reading to learn how to stop receding gums.

Gingival recession

Receding gums

What is Gum Recession?

Gum recession is a type of periodontal disease that occurs gradually.

The soft tissue of the gums pulls away from your teeth and exposes their roots. [1]

It also forms gaps between the teeth and the gum line.

Bacteria can accumulate in these gaps and cause more cavities.

Depending on the severity, this oral health condition may affect one or multiple teeth.

Left untreated, it can lead to tooth and bone loss. [2]

Who Does Gum Recession Affect?

Gum recession is more common in people:

  • Over 65
  • Tobacco chewers
  • Brushing aggressively
  • With lip or tongue piercings
  • With other gum diseases
  • With poor oral health

What Causes Receding Gums?

To learn how to stop receding gums, you must first know its causes.

We already pointed to receding gums from brushing too hard.

Other causes of gum recession include: [3]

  • Oral piercings
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Periodontal disease
  • Teeth misalignment
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Plaque and tartar buildup
  • Trauma to the gum tissue
  • Smoking & chewing tobacco

Symptoms of Gum Recession

Common signs of gum recession are: [4]

  • Loose teeth
  • Teeth sensitivity
  • Exposed tooth root
  • Pain near the gum line
  • Visible gum shrinkage
  • Red and swollen gums

How to Stop Receding Gums?

The best way to stop receding gums is prevention.

Here are some things you can do to prevent receding gums and have healthy gums: [5]

  Don’t smoke or chew tobacco

  Use antimicrobial mouthwash

  Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush

  Brush your teeth twice and floss once a day

  Visit a dentist regularly for professional teeth cleaning

Note that you cannot prevent gum recession from a genetic predisposition.

Stop Receding Gums with DentaVacation

Now that you know how to stop receding gums, you can take action.

Practice good oral hygiene and avoid tobacco products to keep your gums healthy.

If you’re already dealing with receding gums and looking for a trusty dentist, DentaVacation can help.

We work with top dentists worldwide to provide high-quality yet affordable treatments.

Contact us now, and let us help you restore your gum health.

FAQs

Gum recession is very common. Around 88% of people over 65 suffer from it in one or more teeth.

With knowing how to stop receding gums, you might wonder if you can reverse it.

Unfortunately, gums can’t grow back after receding.

However, you can always prevent receding gums or receive treatments to stop them from worsening. [6]

Treatment for this periodontal disease depends on its severity and oral health. [7]

Mild cases of gum recession can be treated with nonsurgical options such as:

  • Orthodontics
  • Dental bonding
  • Topical antibiotics

More severe cases of gum recession are treated with surgical options such as:

  • Regeneration
  • Soft tissue graft
  • Open flap scaling and root planning

Want to fix receding gums with experts' advice?

Yes, please!