The gum recessions They are a dental problem that affects both the aesthetics and the health of our teeth. In this article, we will explore the causes behind this phenomenon, its consequences and how to prevent it, with the aim of providing useful information and surpassing other articles on the Google search engine.
What is a gum recession?
The gum recession It occurs when the gums recede, exposing parts of the tooth that should normally be covered. This can lead to various problems, such as the following:
- aesthetic affectation: The line of the gum margin is altered and does not follow the natural shape of the smile. As a result, some teeth may appear longer than others when you smile.
- Tooth sensitivity: Exposure of dentin may cause sensitivity to brushing and contact with cold foods.
Before planning treatment, the dentist should ensure that the sensitivity is due solely to recession and not to cavities or other lesions.
Causes of gum recessions
Recessions can be caused by a number of factors, including:
genetics and anatomy
Some people have thin gums or misplaced teeth, which increases the chance of developing recessions.
Habits and elements in the mouth
- improper brushing: Using hard bristle brushes or electric brushes with a high-speed rotating movement can cause gum retraction. Also, making horizontal or vertical movements instead of circular or sweeping movements can cause recessions in several teeth in a row.
- oral piercing: Tongue, floor of the mouth, frenulum or lip piercings can cause ongoing trauma to the gums, which in turn can lead to recessions.
Consequences of recessions in the gum
If not treated properly, gum recessions can have various consequences:
- tooth loss: Root exposure can weaken teeth and increase the risk of tooth loss.
- infections: Receding gums may be more susceptible to infection and periodontal disease.
Prevention and treatment of gum recession
To prevent and treat gum recession, these recommendations can be followed:
- proper brushing: Use a soft or ultra-soft brush and use circular or sweeping movements instead of horizontal or vertical movements.
- oral hygiene: Maintain a proper oral hygiene routine, including flossing and mouthwash.
- Regular visits to the dentist: Go to the dentist periodically to detect possible problems in time and receive advice on the proper care of your teeth and gums. 4. Avoid oral piercings: If you have oral piercings, consider having them removed to prevent damage to your gums and the occurrence of recessions.
- No Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and makes receding gums more difficult to heal.
- Balance diet: Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those containing vitamin C and calcium, to strengthen gums and teeth.
Professional treatments for gum recessions
If you already suffer from gum recessions, it is important to see a professional to receive the appropriate treatment. Some treatment options include:
- Scaling and root planing: This procedure involves removing tartar and smoothing the root surfaces of the teeth to allow the gums to re-attach to the roots and decrease recession.
- gum graft: In more severe cases, the dentist can perform a gum graft, which consists of taking tissue from another part of the mouth and placing it in the affected area to cover the exposed roots and stimulate gum growth.
- regenerative surgery: If the recession has damaged the bone and tissue supporting the teeth, regenerative surgery may be necessary to stimulate new bone and tissue growth.
Conclusion
Gum recessions are a dental problem that not only affects the aesthetics of our smile, but also our oral health. By knowing the causes and how to prevent them, we can protect our gums and maintain a healthy smile. If you already suffer from gum recessions, do not hesitate to see a professional to receive the appropriate treatment and avoid long-term complications.
