dental hygiene
Gum recession happens when tissue pulls away from the tooth, more of it becomes visible. Teeth look longer than they used to. Or one tooth suddenly feels sharp with something cold.
Find Out Why It’s Happening First
Brushing too hard’s a common reason. Scrubbing like you’re removing paint, your gums aren’t going to thank you for that. Hard bristled brush makes it worse too.
Gum disease is another big one. Plaque around the gumline irritates the tissue, eventually damages the support around your teeth. Sometimes it’s how a tooth sits, tight bite or uneven positioning putting extra pressure on the gum.
What You Can Actually Change At Home
Be gentler brushing. Soft brush, small movements around the gumline instead of attacking it with force. Electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor’s worth it if you tend to brush aggressively, becomes one of those features you stop noticing since it just does its job.
Soft bristles, light pressure, gums don’t need a hard workout every morning. Flossing still matters, especially around the gumline where plaque hides, don’t snap it into your gums though. Sensitive teeth, a sensitivity toothpaste makes cold drinks a lot less annoying.
Sometimes It Needs Professional Treatment
Gum disease’s behind it, a dentist or hygienist needs to deal with the infection and buildup around your teeth. Professional cleaning removes hardened tartar you just can’t brush away yourself.
Can It Actually Grow Back
Usually no. Tissue that’s already lost doesn’t grow back from better brushing or salt water rinses.
Treatment can protect what’s left though. Sometimes a dentist recommends gum graft surgery, placing tissue over the exposed area for more coverage. Sounds more intimidating than it feels for a lot of people, though the exact experience depends on the procedure and your mouth specifically.
Don’t Wait If The Tooth’s Sensitive
Exposed roots don’t have the protective enamel the visible part of the tooth has, makes them a lot more sensitive to cold, heat, or touch.
Recession’s getting worse, the tooth’s loose, or gums bleed often, get it checked rather than trying another internet remedy. Oil pulling isn’t rebuilding lost gum tissue. Neither is brushing harder.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
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