What’s Causing My Gums to Recede?

Some gum recession happens naturally over time, but gum recession can also be a sign of a problem. If you have receding gums, it’s important to discuss your problem with a dentist in Akron, OH. At Marino Dental On Darrow, we advise our patients on the best ways to take care of their teeth, and can help our patients preserve their dental health.

What Causes Gum Recession?

There are many things that can cause gum recession. Sometimes, just identifying the source of the problem can be tricky. Some causes of gum recession include:

• Injury
• Brushing too hard or brushing with a hard bristle toothbrush
• Wear and tear from a lip ring or tongue ring
• Periodontal disease
• Smoking

Is Gum Recession a Problem?

Your gums support your teeth and nourish the tooth roots and bones that hold the teeth in. As gums recede, this can cause a variety of problems including loss of jaw bone density and loose permanent teeth.

How Can You Protect Yourself When Gum Recession Is Happening?

The best way to protect your teeth is to stop gum recession from worsening. To do this, you’ll need to identify the cause of your gum recession. Sometimes, the cause is not clear. Work with your dentist to identify potential causes of gum recession.

Do Gums Grow Back?

Gums do not grow back. Once they’ve receded, the problem is permanent. There are some potential fixes for gum loss, such as gum grafting. Your dentist can talk to you about gum grafting and whether you’re a good candidate for this type of surgery. If you don’t do anything to eliminate the cause of your gum recession, you may continue to experience this problem even after your surgery.

Can Gum Recession Be Stopped?

Gum recession can be stopped if you can determine the potential cause. For example, if you have gum disease, treating the gum disease can help. If you have gum recession, talk to your dentist at Marino Dental on Darrow. Make an appointment for your dental checkup in Akron, OH today.