Five Things You Should Know About Gum Recession as You Age

Receding gums are a problem that many of us face, especially as we get older. If you’re experiencing gum recession, however, your first question for your Kansas City family dentist may simply be, “What exactly is it?”

Though it may seem weird or complicated, gum recession is just what it sounds like: a condition in which the gums recede, exposing more of your teeth or even the roots of your teeth. This can lead to several problems, including tooth sensitivity, but the most concerning issue is bacteria accumulating in the spaces between the teeth and gums, which may lead to severe damage and possible tooth loss.

That’s the first of your questions answered, but we’re sure you have others. Not to worry. We’ve put together a handy primer covering everything you need to know about the risks and realities of receding gums, especially as you get older.

Here’s what you should know about gum recession as you age:

It’s not always about your age. Gum recession often happens as we get older, but aging isn’t always the reason. Some people are more genetically prone to receding gums, which can also be exacerbated by hormone fluctuations when you are pregnant or going through menopause. Other things that may worsen gum recession include aggressive tooth brushing, misalignment of your teeth, use of tobacco products, and clenching and grinding your teeth. Certain periodontal diseases also increase your risk of receding gums.

Signs and symptoms of receding gums. Not sure if your gums are receding? Here’s what to look out for. If your teeth are starting to look longer, it isn’t because your teeth are growing, but it might be because your gums are shrinking. As we mentioned, gum recession often leads to increased tooth sensitivity. You might also notice small notches near your gum line. Unfortunately, gum recession is often not noticeable in its early stages, which is why regular dental check-ups are vital.

An ounce of prevention goes a long way. If you’re not yet dealing with gum recession, you can do a few things to minimize your risk, including using a soft-bristled toothbrush to care for your gums, avoiding tobacco products, and practicing good oral hygiene every day—especially flossing! The most important thing that you can do, though, is to make regular visits to see your Kansas City family dentist, who can help catch receding gums before they become more serious.

Numerous treatment options exist. Those who are experiencing gum recession have plenty of options. Numerous effective treatments can help reduce recession and treat symptoms. These range from scaling and root planing to the use of specialized toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

Your family dentist in Kansas City is here to help! Whether you’re currently experiencing gum recession or are simply concerned about it in the future, here at Blacker Family Dental, we provide personalized advice and treatment options that will help to produce the best results for you.

Ultimately, the best thing that you can do for your teeth and gums is to be proactive about your dental health. This means regular brushing and flossing and proper overall dental care, as well as staying informed about gum recession and other oral health concerns as you age. It also means consulting with your family dentist for regular check-ups and asking if you have any questions or concerns.

If you have more questions or simply want to take a more proactive approach to your dental health starting today, call Blacker Family Dental in Kansas City, MO at (816) 763-8400 or click here to schedule an appointment.