Receding Gums: Care
When we think of taking care of our mouths, we often think about brushing our teeth. Yet looking after your gums is just as important.
Receding gums are one of the most common reasons we experience sensitive teeth and, if left unchecked, they can lead to tooth loss. As our gums shrink away from our teeth, the nerves in the root of our tooth can become exposed, which is why you might experience sensitive teeth as you sip your hot morning coffee or when you bite into something sour, such as grapefruit.
In this guide to receding gums, we explore its most common causes as well as the simple receding-gums care you can do at home to help you smile with confidence.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF RECEDING GUMS?
Gums recede gradually and at first painlessly, so it can take a while to spot. You may notice redness, swelling and bleeding after brushing. There are a number of reasons why this might happen, including something as simple as poor oral hygiene.
Understanding the cause is the first step in working out how help protect against receding gums. The most common culprits are:
- Not brushing your teeth properly (this leads to a build-up of plaque that irritates your gums).
- Brushing your teeth too hard.
- Eating too many sugary foods.
While anyone can suffer from receding gums, people who are pregnant, diabetic, malnourished, suffering from stress, smokes or those who suffer from a weakened immune system are more at risk.2
If your receding gums are painful and accompanied by ulcers or pus, bad breath, loose teeth or excess saliva, book an appointment to see your dentist who will be able to help.3
HOW TO HELP PROTECT RECEDING GUMS
If you do have receding gums, don’t panic. While your gums can’t grow back, the good news is that in most cases there are simple, everyday steps you can take to help prevent further recession.
- Brush your teeth properly, twice a day, making sure plaque is removed.4
- Use toothpaste containing fluoride.
- Choose a soft or medium-bristled toothbrush.
- Clean between the teeth using interdental brushes or floss once a day.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
- If you smoke, give up.
- Have regular check-ups with a dentist – they can offer advice on your oral hygiene routine and how to stop receding gums.5,6
If your receding gums (properly known as gingival recession) are severe, a dentist may refer you to a dental hygienist or a gum specialist, known as a periodontist, for receding gums treatment.7
HOW SENSODYNE CAN HELP PROTECT GUMS
If you have sensitive teeth, consider using the daily dual action Sensodyne Sensitivity and Gum toothpaste, which builds a protective layer over sensitive areas while removing plaque and bacteria to support gum health.
The Sensodyne Repair and Protect Toothbrush has bristles that flex on contact with the teeth, helping protect against the effects of overbrushing while cleaning effectively.
If receding gums are causing you to experience sensitivity, you could try Sensodyne Rapid Relief, which has been proven to relieve sensitivity in just 60 seconds.*
Discover the full Sensodyne range, and find out which one is best suited to you.
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