Gingival recession often goes undetected until it causes discomfort; however, this condition can be avoided with just a few simple steps.
Regular oral hygiene and prophylaxis will keep gum tissue healthy. If you notice receding gum lines, however, a dental exam should be scheduled immediately; in particular a periodontist can evaluate the sulcus depth, clinical attachment strength and bleeding in order to ascertain what caused gingival recession.
According to Dr. Kami Hoss, a dentist in Southern California and author of ”If Your Mouth Could Talk”, maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth is essential for oral health. The microbiome, which comprises various bacteria and germs (including beneficial ones), needs to be in harmony for a healthy mouth.
“But when there’s an imbalance in that microbial community, the ‘bad’ microbes can produce waste products that can damage teeth and gums,” he says. “Gingivitis occurs when bacteria, or their byproducts, lead to gum inflammation or infection.”
Self-Care Tips For Preventing Gingival Recession
1. Change Your Brushing Technique
Dentists generally advise brushing two times each day to remove food debris and plaque bacteria, however some individuals use excessive force or hard bristle toothbrushes which can cause physical wear on gum tissue and exposed tooth roots that leads to recession of gum tissue and exposed roots.
Studies have proven that practicing proper oral hygiene can effectively prevent and reverse gingival recession, including flossing, regular brushing and professional periodontal cleanings (also referred to as scaling and root planing).
An occasional dental doctor may advise taking topical antibiotics to combat gum disease or any bacterial deposits beneath the gumline, while gingival tissue grafting surgery to cover roots, and dental bonding to camouflage recession areas are other possible treatment methods.
When the receding gums reach advanced stages, periodontists may recommend flap surgery in order to reconstruct them.
2. Change Your Mouthwash
Harsh mouthwashes may lead to gum recession as they remove beneficial bacteria that prevent tartar buildup and tooth decay, and contain high concentrations of alcohol which erode tooth enamel and contribute to cavities.
Gingival recession not only presents cosmetic concerns, but can also result in sensitive roots, increased bone loss around them and even tooth loss in extreme cases. But with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist it can easily be avoided.
Brushing and flossing twice daily and using fluoridated mouthwash can help stop receding gums, as can regular visits to your dentist for professional dental cleanings and checking for early signs of gum disease; refraining from grinding or clenching teeth; changing toothbrushes every three months; as well as eating a balanced diet without too many acidic foods and drinks can all play their part.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
Every person has an individual oral health history with distinct risk factors for gingival recession. These could include age, genetics, aggressive tooth brushing techniques and dental restorations as well as systemic diseases like diabetes.
Eating a balanced diet low in sugar and high in fiber, vitamins A and C, calcium magnesium and potassium is vital to oral health. Sugary food and beverages provide sustenance for bacteria which erode tooth enamel and lead to gum disease.
Dense fruits such as apples, berries and pears that are left without immediate brushing can contribute to gum recession due to their dense tissue nature, which attracts food debris and oral bacteria.3
Gum grafting surgery can leave the affected area sensitive and swollen. To ensure an efficient healing process and successful outcome, it’s essential that patients heed instructions from their dental team, restricting any eating that might disturb or delay this process or hinder a positive result; this includes any hard or sticky foods which could damage gums.
4. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice which involves swishing tablespoons of sesame or coconut oil around one’s mouth for up to 20 minutes, before spitting out and rinsing off to remove. Some people utilize oil pulling as an aid against tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath while others believe it can treat issues such as ear infections, headaches, diabetes and arthritis.
Studies show that when done properly, this ancient practice can effectively remove harmful bacteria from your mouth and improve gum health. Furthermore, it could even prevent gingivitis – a mild form of gum disease with red, swollen and bleeding gums – by keeping bacteria at bay.
However, some experts warn that more research needs to be conducted on this subject. Furthermore, oil pulling should not be seen as an alternative way of brushing and flossing; rather it should be seen as an affordable and straightforward means to rebalance oral microbiomes.
What Kind of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Is Best for Gum Recession
There are several toothbrushes that are recommended for people with gum recession. Here are some of the best toothbrushes for gum recession:
Electric Toothbrushes:
- Curaprox CS 5460 toothbrush
- Oral B Sensi Ultra-Thin brush heads
- Bitvae Sonic Electric Toothbrush (Smart S2)
- Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart
- Oral-B Pro 5000 Rechargeable
- Waterpik Complete Care 9.0
Manual Toothbrushes:
- Curaprox CS 5460 toothbrush
- Zent Flex5
Selecting the Ideal Toothpaste
In addition to using the right toothbrush, choosing the appropriate toothpaste is crucial for gum recession. Consider the following factors when selecting a toothpaste:
Gentle on Gums: Opt for a toothpaste that is gentle on the gums and does not contain harsh abrasives, as aggressive brushing can further irritate the gums.
Fluoride Content: Look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride helps prevent cavities and strengthens teeth, promoting overall oral health.
How Often Should I Visit the Dentist if I Have Gum Recession
To effectively manage gum recession, regular dental visits are essential. Here’s what you need to know:
Frequency of Check-ups: Routine dental check-ups typically occur every six months. However, depending on the extent of the infection and other factors, a dentist may recommend periodontal maintenance or adjust the frequency of visits.
Consultation with Dentist: It is advisable to consult with your dentist to determine the optimal frequency of visits based on your individual needs and condition. Early detection of gum recession and identification of any contributing factors, such as faulty fillings or ill-fitting partial dentures, are crucial for effective management.
What Are Some Foods to Avoid if I Have Gum Recession
To maintain gum health and minimize further damage, it’s important to avoid certain foods:
- Sugary Foods: Donuts, candy, energy drinks, cake, and chocolate can contribute to dental decay and gum inflammation.
- Acidic Foods: Soda, apple cider vinegar, limes, black coffee, tea, citrus fruits, and pickled foods can erode tooth enamel and irritate the gums.
- Chewy Carbohydrates with Gluten: White bread and bagels, which contain gluten, can stick to teeth and increase the risk of plaque buildup.
Note on Activities to Avoid
Aside from specific foods, it’s crucial to be mindful of activities that can worsen gum recession or increase sensitivity:
Extreme Temperature: Avoid consuming very cold or hot items like ice cubes or popsicles, as they can cause heightened sensitivity in the gums.
By following these guidelines and maintaining diligent oral hygiene practices, you can help manage gum recession and promote overall oral health.
