What Causes My Gums to Shrink?

Have you noticed your gums receding, making your teeth appear a bit more prominent? It is understandable to feel a little worried about this, but let’s not stress just yet! Gum recession or shrinking of gums is a common dental issue that can happen due to numerous reasons. You can manage and prevent it with proper care from a restorative dentist in La Jolla. Are you keen to know how to do so? Read this blog till the end for comprehensive information on gum shrinking.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Your gums play a crucial role in protecting your teeth and the underlying bone. When they start to recede, it exposes the roots of your teeth, causing sensitivity and potential oral problems. Here are some of the main causes of this oral disorder:

1. Gum Disease

Periodontitis is one of the leading causes of recession. It begins with the buildup of plaque, which produces bacteria that lead to inflammation. With time, this untreated gum disease destroys the tissues and your teeth’s supporting bones, causing the pulling away of gums. Some of the early symptoms are redness, bleeding gums, and swelling. Thus, do not ignore them! 

2. Aggressive Brushing

You might feel brushing hard is a good method to keep your teeth clean, but it is not. It does more harm than good. When you use a stiff-bristled toothbrush or apply excessive force, it can damage the gum tissues, causing recession. Moreover, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush it in circular motions for effective cleaning without damaging your gums. 

3. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) 

Do you clench your teeth, especially at night? This habit is known as bruxism, which puts excessive pressure on your gums and teeth. With time, the constant force causes the gums to pull backward. If you suspect teeth grinding to be the cause of the problem, use a mouthguard to protect your teeth while sleeping. 

4. Misaligned Teeth

When there is a disorder in your teeth’s alignment, they put more pressure on your gums, causing irritation and gum recession over time. If your teeth are misaligned, undergoing orthodontic treatment can relieve the strain and protect your gums.

5. Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during pregnancy or menopause, can make your gums vulnerable to irritation and sensitivity. Women who go through these changes must be extra mindful of their oral hygiene and schedule regular checkups to monitor gum health.

6. Genetics 

At times, the issue is caused by your genetics. If your family has a history of weak or thin gums, you are more prone to this disorder. In such cases, it is essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene to minimize the risk of severe gum recession. 

Ways to Prevent Gum Recession

If you notice shrinking gums, ignoring it can turn out to be fatal. Here is what you can do for a healthy smile:

• Visit Your Dental Regularly: If you find this dental problem, it is important to visit a dental practitioner for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Improve Your Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice every day and floss once daily. Moreover, use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your gums healthy.
• Avoid improper Lifestyle habits: When you quit smoking, it reduces the risk of periodontal issues and improves your oral health.

Gum recession is a serious oral problem if not treated promptly. Taking quick action increases the chances of preventing further damage. Moreover, avoiding harmful habits and maintaining proper oral hygiene keeps your gums in top condition. If you notice any symptoms of this dental issue, do not wait and schedule an appointment at our dental clinic today for personalized solutions!

**Disclaimer: This content should not be considered medical advice and does not imply a doctor-patient relationship.