Gum recession is a common dental issue that can cause sensitive teeth and even tooth loss if left untreated. But with the right practices and treatment, you can prevent and manage it effectively.
In this article, we\’ll discuss what causes receding gums, how you can prevent them, and the best treatments available to keep your gums healthy. Let\’s get started!
Understanding Receding Gums
Receding gum is a form of gum (periodontal) disease that occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root.
It is usually the side effect of gums fighting some form of infection or bacteria and becoming weaker gradually. Over time, gums pull away and create gaps known as \”pockets\” between the teeth and gums.
Sensitivity to cold, heat, and sweets, sensitivity during dental procedures, and gum pain or irritation are some of the early signs of receding gums.
Causes of Receding Gums:
Several reasons cause receding gums. The most common ones are:

1. Wrong Brushing Habits: Not brushing or flossing enough can build up plaque, and brushing too hard can wear down your enamel (the protective covering of your teeth). Both can cause gum recession.
2. Crooked or Crowded Teeth: Misaligned teeth can put extra pressure on your gums and cause them to pull back after prolonged stress. Gum recession often happens with crooked front teeth, especially on the bottom.
3. Genetics: Some people are more prone to receding gums because of their genetics. If your parents have a gum recession, you might be at a higher risk, too.
4. Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease is a bacterial gum infection that destroys gum tissue and supporting bone that hold your teeth in place. People with this disease are more likely to experience gum recession.

5. Tobacco Use: The saliva of our mouth has the necessary minerals to keep teeth and gum healthy. Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces saliva flow, which contributes to gum recession.
Prevention Strategies
To prevent receding gums, you must maintain good oral hygiene and be mindful of your dental habits. Here are a few tips:
1. Brush Gently: Use a soft toothbrush and brush your teeth gently in circular motions. Consult your dentist to show you the proper ways for brushing your teeth.
2. Floss Regularly: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can\’t reach, so make it a part of your oral hygiene routine to maintain healthy gums.
3. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist can catch early signs of gum recession and treat them before they worsen.
4. Quit Tobacco: If you smoke or chew tobacco, quitting can greatly reduce your risk of gum recession and improve your overall oral health.
Professional Treatments
If your gum recession is already noticeable, then preventive measures won\’t help; it\’s time to consult with your dentist for professional treatment options. Here are some treatments for receding gums:
Scaling and Root Planing:
This is a deep-cleaning procedure where your dentist removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. It helps to smooth the root surfaces and allows the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Gum Grafting:
In this surgical procedure, tissue is taken from another part of your mouth (like the roof of your mouth) and attached to the affected area to cover the exposed teeth roots and thicken your gum line.
Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST):
PST involves making a small hole in the gum tissue and gently repositioning it to cover the exposed root. There is no cutting or stitching in PST; the patients usually return to normal activities 24 to 48 hours after treatment.
Regenerative Procedures:
If bone loss has occurred, your dentist might suggest a regenerative procedure using tissue-stimulating proteins or bone grafts to encourage the growth of lost bone and tissue that support your teeth.
Laser Therapy:
Some dentists use lasers to remove diseased gum tissue and encourage new tissue growth, reducing gum recession and improving gum health.
Each of these treatments has its benefits and risks, and your dentist can help you decide which option is best for your situation.
Home Care and Remedies
Professional treatments are recommended for advanced gum recession. Still, for early stages or further prevention of this disease, there are several home remedies and lifestyle changes you can make to keep your gums in shape.:
1. Oil Pulling: It is believed coconut or sesame oil can greatly reduce plaque and promote gum health. Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes and rinsing your mouth with warm water afterwards.
2. Salt Water Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in your mouth. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse 2-3 times a day.
3. Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Applying aloe vera gel directly to the gums can help soothe and heal receding gums.
4. Green Tea: Drinking green tea can reduce inflammation and promote healthy gums. It contains antioxidants that fight bacteria and protect against periodontal disease.
5. Eucalyptus Oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, eucalyptus oil can be diluted with water and used as a mouthwash to help reduce gum swelling and promote healing.
Conclusion
Gum recession is a common dental disease but it can be averted with the right preventive measures and treatments and the right time. The procedures in this article will help you prevent receding gums and manage existing symptoms. If you have concerns about your gum health, reach out to your dentist for personalised advice and treatment options.