Receding gums is just another one of those things that most people don’t think about until it happens. The process is gradual, with maybe a few discreet signs such as sensitivity to hot or cold beverages or food items, slight bleeding at the gumline, perhaps even some minor discomfort or puffiness from time to time.

As gum loss typically begins to occur between the ages of 35-40, many adults in its beginning stages attribute tooth sensitivity and other changes to the aging process and leave it at that. Left unchecked, the gingiva, or gums, can recede greatly to the point of exposing the roots of a tooth. The danger of gum loss is that the gingiva does not grow back once it is gone and treatment for such a condition can require extensive surgery in the long run. It is an unequivocal truth that healthy gums are the key to keeping healthy teeth.

It has been found that a number of factors contribute to the problem of receding gums, among them:

• Periodontal disease
• Imbalanced occlusion or bite pattern
• Heredity
• Hormonal changes
• Stress
• Smoking
• Poor diet
• Major illness and/or medications
• Either inadequate dental habits or overzealous brushing and flossing

To diagnose the problem correctly, the amount of gum tissue is compared to the amount of the tooth exposed. A full comprehensive dental examination will occur, including a complete synopsis of any known hereditary dental conditions. Depending on the cause and the amount of gum loss, treatment for receding gums can be as simple as prescribing an agent for desensitizing teeth with recommendations for a softer toothbrush and gentler brushing techniques. Nutritional supplements, such as calcium or vitamin C may also be recommended. In a case with gums receding to an extensive degree, the only relief may come in the form of gum grafts. A donor source in the mouth, typically the palate, provides the tissue that will cover the exposed root of a tooth. Generally, only 1-2 teeth will be treated at a time.

Recommended techniques for managing or preventing receding gums and long-term damage are as following:

• Brushing teeth and flossing at least twice a day
• Using a toothbrush with soft bristles
• Rinsing the mouth regularly
• Eating balanced and healthy diet
• Learn to de-stress in healthy ways
• Ditch the smoking habit or use of any other tobacco products
• See a dentist regularly, as in every 6 to 12 months