7 Reasons Why Your Gums Recede

Your teeth and gums will undergo many changes over the years due to age, wear and tear, and oral health issues. Gum recession is a common problem experienced by many. There are various reasons why gums recede. In this post, Drs. Isaac and David Garazi from Garazi Periodontics & Dental Implants in Miami, Florida, explore these reasons and how you can address them to keep your smile in optimal health.  

Here are seven reasons why gums recede and our recommendations for receding gum line treatment: 

1. Periodontal Disease 

Receding gums are a major symptom of periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that can lead to premature tooth loss. If you don’t brush and floss daily, plaque can gather under the gumline of your teeth, causing your gum tissues to swell, bleed, and recede. These are common symptoms of periodontal disease. Dr. Garazi offers scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgical gum treatments to curtail these symptoms and restore your gum health.

2. Excessive Force When Brushing 

Brushing too hard and using a hard-bristled toothbrush can strain your gum tissues over time, causing them to recede. Soft-bristle toothbrushes are best for your teeth as they’re less likely to harm your gums. You should also avoid excessive force when you brush to protect your tooth enamel.   

3. Tobacco Use

Nicotine products like cigarettes and nicotine pouches increase plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, making you more prone to gum recession and periodontal disease. Stopping these habits can lead to healthier gums and teeth. 

4. Misaligned Teeth

Teeth that don’t align properly distribute the forces of chewing unevenly, putting undue pressure on your gums and jaw. This pressure can eventually erode your gum tissues and cause them to recede. Gaps caused by misaligned or missing teeth provide a breeding ground for bacteria to infect and weaken your gum tissues, causing them to pull away from your teeth. Dr. Garazi may recommend orthodontics to correct misalignment issues or implants to fill gaps left by missing teeth to prevent gum recession and improve oral health. 

5. Bruxism 

The persistent trauma of teeth clenching and grinding in sleep damages teeth and can weaken gums, causing them to recede. A night guard can stop nighttime teeth grinding and protect your gums and teeth. 

6. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes in your body from pregnancy, menopause, and puberty can make your gums more sensitive to irritants like plaque and tartar buildup and more susceptible to inflammation, pain, bleeding, and recession.  

7. Genetics

Sometimes, gum recession is caused by genetics. Gum recession caused by hormonal changes and genetics can’t be reversed. However, your condition can often be managed through professional dental treatments and good oral care to prevent further damage and preserve the integrity of your smile.

Receding Gum Line Treatment Near Me

For help managing or treating gum recession issues, contact Dr. Isaac or David Garazi from Garazi Periodontics & Dental Implants in Miami, FL at (305) 690-0611.

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