5 Signs You Have Receding Gums

By Author: RiggsfamilyDentistry
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Receding gums are a dental condition in which your gums start pulling back from the surface of your tooth. Eventually, the root of the tooth becomes exposed, which can cause pain and sensitivity. Left untreated, receding gums can lead to tooth-loss. If you suspect you have receding gums, consult your dentist for treatment right away.

Receding gums can be caused due to several factors, such as –

• brushing and/or flossing too aggressively
• tartar buildup
• hormonal changes
• lack of saliva (perhaps due to use of certain medications)
• smoking
• gum disease
• diabetes
• HIV

If you have a family history of gum disease, have diabetes, or are HIV-positive, you should watch out for receding gums.

Symptoms of receding gums include –

• Bleeding after Brushing/Flossing
Bleeding after brushing and/or flossing can be a sign of gum disease, gingivitis, and/or receding gums. If your gums bleed often after brushing and/or flossing, you should consult a dentist as soon as possible.

• Swollen Gums
Swollen or red gums are ...
... another symptom of gum disease and possibly, receding gums.

• Shrinking Gums
If you notice that your gums are receding, or the root of your tooth is becoming exposed, especially if accompanied by pain and sensitivity, see a dentist right away.

• Pain at Gum Line
Any pain in and around the gums should definitely be examined by a dentist since there can be various possible causes for pain apart from receding gums.

• Loose Teeth
Loose teeth are a sign of advanced gum recession, or tooth decay. Seek a dentist’s help immediately.

Treatment for receding gums depends on how severe the recession is. Your dentist can then determine the best course of treatment. Treatment options include –
• topical antibiotic gel
• antimicrobial mouthwash
• antiseptic chips (in less severe cases)
• flap surgery or grafting (in advanced cases of receding gums)

Flap surgery and grafting are only used in very serious cases of gum recession.

In flap surgery, the gums are lifted up to clean the bacteria and plaque from under them. The gums are then put back into place.

In grafting, your periodontist will place a synthetic material or a piece of bone or tissue in the gums to help them grow back.

It is extremely important to catch and treat receding gums as soon as you notice them. If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs or any other dental symptoms, make an appointment with your family dentistry today!

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry or to consult the leading dentist in Stuart, Florida; call Riggs Family Dentistry at 772-220-4171 Today. Riggs Family Dentistry is designed to be inviting, comforting, bright, and full of friendly, caring people dedicated to bringing patients the finest quality family and cosmetic dental care.