The easiest way to deal with any health or dental concern is to take preventative measures before the problem has a chance to occur. It’s no different with the process to prevent receding gums. The important thing to know about this dental risk is that receding gums are only the symptom of more severe problems. For example, while there are treatments for receding gums, the underlying problem has to be corrected before you will see an improvement in the feel and appearance of your gums. Here is a list of the most common causes of receding gums and ways you can prevent them from happening to you.
- gum disease
- mouth trauma
- improperly fitting dental work
Gum disease is the single, largest cause of receding gums. This disease aggressively attacks the gums and causes serious damage to both the teeth and gums. Your best preventative measures are to take good care of your teeth and gums and keep twice yearly dental appointments. Brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis is one of the most effective weapons you have in preventing this disease. Make sure you see the dentist as recommended so any problems that come up can be treated quickly, before they have a chance to permanently damage your teeth and gums.
The next concern in terms of receding gums is mouth trauma. There is no way you can predict the future about things like car accidents or normal, everyday falls. However you can limit the potential of damaging your teeth and gums in sporting activities. If you play or participate in any sport or recreation that could possibly harm your mouth, use a mouth guard. Football, hockey, and basketball are activities that warrant this use. Baseball is another one. Also remember to protect your children with a mouth guard. They are even more likely to be injured on the playing field.
It doesn’t happen very often, but sometimes you may find yourself with a filling or crown that doesn’t fit just right. When this happens, it changes the way your teeth fit together and puts unnecessary stress on the gums. There really is no prevention. As soon as you notice a problem with your dental work, get to the dentist immediately so that it can be corrected. If it is handled quickly, you can avoid receding gums and other related problems.
Taking the time to prevent receding gums is one of the best things you can do for your dental health. Let OraMD® be a part of your prevention plan. There are times when it is even more important to be diligent – for example receding gums and HIV connection, or during other chronic illnesses. Remember that prevention is important.
