Does gum tissue grow back after they’ve receded? Are they really the result of brushing too hard? Or, do gums recede because of gum disease? These are just some of the questions that we will attempt to answer to try and shed some light on the heavily misunderstood oral condition known as gum recession.
Why Do Gums Recede?
The gum tissue is nothing more than a layer of skin that covers the bone tissue of the upper and lower jaws. And, so long as the underlying jaw bone stays intact, the gum tissue will stay straight and high on the teeth. Simply put, gums recede only because the bone responsible for supporting the gum tissue has withdrawn.
Can gums reform after they’ve receded? Yes, they do. How? Well, before we answer that question, it would be better to understand first what exactly causes the jaw bones to demineralize, and in turn, the gums to recede.
Here are the four top causes of jaw demineralization:
- Periodontal disease / advanced gum disease
- Bruxism / clenching and grinding of the teeth
- Trauma
- Genetics
Can You Stop The Gums From Receding?
It is indeed possible to stop or prevent gum recession. However, this can only happen if you first take the time to educate yourself about what can cause your gums to recede.
Here are the four likely causes:
- Gum disease. For the intents and purpose of this post, let’s just assume that you have an active infection in your mouth. By the way, if you’re curious, most people actually do have an active infection, but that’s beside the point. In any case, gum disease should not be taken lightly. If left unchecked, it can progress to the point where it can compromise your jaw bones and your overall health. Not to mention, periodontitis, which is the advanced form of gum disease, can’t be cured.
- Bruxism. Whether it’s caused by stress or sleep apnea, the habitual clenching and grinding of teeth can compromise the strength and structure of the jaws, which can make it prone to gum disease and in turn, gum recession.
- Remember, while your teeth are built to be pretty solid, they’re not exactly meant to be smashed around. If left untreated, a chipped tooth – or in worse cases, a lost tooth or two – can put you at more of a risk for gum disease and subsequently, gum recession.
- Sometimes, though, the thickness of the facial jaw bones may be determined by genetics. Although it may sound unfortunate, those born with thinner jaw bones are more prone to demineralization and are at a much higher risk for gum recession.
Gum recession often occur over a period of many years and usually comes with little to no pain or sensitivity until it’s too late. However, if you do start noticing your teeth appearing longer than before, or the spaces at the base becoming much wider, then be sure to contact your dentist asap. Although, it’d be better to not wait for any signs to show and make it a point to regularly visit Dr. Yankowskas every three to six months for check-ups and regular cleanings.
Call for an appointment today at 978-649-7773 or visit the website at www.tyngsborocosmeticdentist.com.
