• Visit the dentist.
It may sound like an obvious solution, but many people avoid visiting the dentist on a regular basis. This prevents them from realizing when they may be at risk for gum recession. When you visit a dentist for an appointment, we can notify you if we notice any signs of recession or gum disease. We can also direct you to changes that need to be made to your oral hygiene regimen. This can be invaluable information when you are trying to prevent detrimental and unsightly gum recession.
• Adjust your brushing habits.
When you use a toothbrush that is too hard or puts too much pressure on your teeth and gums when you brush, you are weakening your oral tissues. Aggressive brushing habits may seem like a good idea to deter plaque from developing, but they are actually making your teeth and gums more vulnerable to other problems like gum recession and tooth loss. Brush your teeth with a firm, but gentle pressure and circular motion. If you have been using a toothbrush with hard bristles, you may also consider getting medium or soft grade bristles.
• Over flossing may be the culprit.
Flossing is a wonderful habit to have, but when you over floss, you could be weakening your gums. Flossing removes plaque, but once you have flossed once or twice a day, you should avoid doing so anymore unless you have something stuck in your teeth. Flossing too much puts unnecessary pressure on your gums and may encourage them to recede.
• It may be in your genes.
Unfortunately, you may just have an inherited predisposition for thin gums and gum recession. If this is the case, you should definitely be brushing more gently, and you should consider having a gum graft before your gum recession becomes severe.
• Biting your nails, pencils, or any other foreign objects.
If you have the habit of putting objects into your mouth to chew on, you may also be scratching your gums without noticing. You should already be trying to stop these biting habits as they are bad for your dental enamel, but they can also lead to gum recession.
• Periodontal disease could be to blame.
Periodontal disease, a severe form of gum disease, is the main culprit of gum recession. To avoid developing periodontal disease, practice proper oral hygiene and visit a dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings.
Once you form these habits, you should be on the road to better oral health and less likelihood of developing gum recession. Also, keep in mind that you should visit your dentist every 3-6 months if you think your gums may already be receding. A dentist will be able to keep an eye on the amount of gum tissue you are losing. We can also perform a gum graft as needed and help with extreme cases of gum recession.
