Receding Gums: Causes and Prevention
Good oral health extends beyond clean teeth; the care of your gums is equally vital to ensure a worry-free, painless smile.
Understanding the Impact of Receding Gums: Gum recession stands as one of the chief causes of tooth sensitivity. As gums recede, the soft dentine inside the tooth becomes exposed, housing tiny nerve channels. This exposure leads to twinges of pain during activities like sipping cold water, enjoying a hot cup of tea, or indulging in something sweet or sour.
Unraveling the Causes of Receding Gums: Understanding the root causes of gum recession is the initial step in effectively treating and preventing it.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing can lead to plaque buildup, causing gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Overbrushing: Vigorous cleaning or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can contribute to gum recession.
- Old Toothbrush: Regularly replace your toothbrush every three to four months for optimal effectiveness.
- Smoking: Smoking not only causes but exacerbates gum diseases.
- Increased Risk Factors: Pregnant individuals, diabetics, those with weakened immune systems, or experiencing stress are more susceptible.
Preventing Receding Gums: While gums don't grow back once receded, a robust oral-hygiene routine can prevent further recession, safeguarding your pain-free smile.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule check-ups every one to two years; more frequently if experiencing issues or having risk factors.
- At-Home Care: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride-containing toothpaste. Consider a toothbrush with soft bristles, like the micotix toothbrush, to prevent overbrushing.
- Specialized Toothpaste: Combat tooth sensitivity with Sensodyne Sensitivity & Gum toothpaste. It builds a protective layer over sensitive areas while promoting gum health by removing plaque and bacteria.
- Complement with the Micotix Toothbrush: Specifically designed for sensitive teeth, the Micotix toothbrush with soft bristles enhances your oral care routine.
- Swift Relief with Sensodyne Rapid Relief: Proven to relieve sensitivity in just 60 seconds*.