People who are considered “long in the tooth” have been around for a long time and are very experienced. The expression came about because those people can literally be “long in the tooth.” More of their teeth are showing because of gum recession. Your Ankeny family dentist, Dr. Amanda Foust, discusses this natural process and what patients might do about it.
A Symptom of Aging
Gum recession is a natural part of the aging process. Science still don’t know why it occurs with age, even in people who have exemplary oral hygiene, but they suspect that genetics might have something to do with it. However, the speed and the severity of gum recession may not be entirely natural. Age aside, some factors that contribute to gum disease are under your control.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease is a leading factor in gum recession, starting the process prematurely and making the condition worse. Gum disease occurs when, often due to a lack of good oral hygiene, bacteria infects the gums. Over time, the infection can eat away at the gums, causing recession. Often, the recession can make the disease even worse, because as the gums disappear, more of the tooth is exposed. The newly exposed tooth has even more crevices and pits, allowing more bacteria to invade.
Bruxism
Many people have no idea they suffer from bruxism, which is the clinical term for clenching and grinding teeth. Bruxism can lead to any number of dental problems, of which gum recession is one. If you suspect bruxism, Dr. Foust can help. She can devise a custom mouthguard to prevent the nightly grinding and reduce your risk for associated symptoms, including tooth wear and fractures, TMJ disorder, and gum recession.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
You know the drill. Brush twice and floss once a day to deter bacteria and plaque buildup. Use a toothbrush no more than three months old, and choose a floss that you like: handheld flossers, waxed round, waxed flat, or dental flossing tape. Make sure that you visit Dr. Foust every six months for a cleaning and checkup, and when you experience an oral abnormality or toothache. If you are worried about gum recession, Dr. Foust can recommend prevention tips.
Perhaps you’re a victim of gum recession, and you need treatment. Dr. Foust can examine your mouth and determine whether a referral to a periodontist is necessary.
See Your Ankeny Dentist
Don’t allow gum recession to ruin your smile! At Dental Impressions, we offer comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages. Contact our 50021 family dentistry office by calling (515) 965-0230 to schedule an appointment today. We welcome patients from Ankeny, Polk City, Bondurant, Elkhart, Alleman, and all surrounding communities.
