As we age, our teeth, like our bodies, change. But many times, change can be difficult to notice. And while you may think that losing teeth or gum recession is a normal part of the aging process, it’s not. If cared for properly, your teeth can last a lifetime.
What is gum recession?
Gum erosion occurs when the tissue around the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth’s root. When gum recession occurs, a gap forms between the teeth and the gum line making it easy for bacteria to build up. Since gum recession is measured in millimeters, it’s easy to miss in yourself.
How can gum recession be prevented?
Many things can cause gum recession with the biggest offenders being: clenching or grinding your teeth, improper brushing, aggressive flossing, excessive usage of sports and energy drinks, tobacco use, and frequent use of whitening products. The good news is gum recession is preventable with a few actionable steps.
- Wear a mouthguard
- Floss gently
- Choose water over sports drinks
- Use teeth whitening sporadically
The most important thing you can do to prevent gum recession is to be proactive. By scheduling and keeping regular dental visits, your dentist can routinely monitor any recession as it occurs.
If you’re due for a visit to the dentist or looking for a new dentist, give Jackson Dental a call today at 573-243-5200.