Gum Diseases

Gum health is as important as dental health. With aging, gum diseases become more noticeable. How can we tell if there's an issue with our gums? Bleeding when biting into hard foods like apples or pears, and the presence of red or purple swelling and bumps are primary signs of gum recession. Proper brushing techniques and tartar removal can prevent gum recession.

**What is Gum Recession?**

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This condition prevents the teeth from being protected against decay and causes high sensitivity during brushing. Gum recession generally increases with age, but environmental and genetic factors can sometimes cause it in younger individuals. If untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to have your teeth checked by our expert dentists without delay to start the treatment process.

**Symptoms of Gum Recession**

The most common symptom of gum recession is tooth sensitivity. As the recession progresses, the teeth appear longer. The symptoms of gum recession include:

- Bleeding during brushing

- Bleeding when eating hard foods

- Gum pain

- Newly formed gaps between teeth

- Sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain when breathing in advanced cases

- Gum sensitivity

- Redness or purpling of the gums

- Swelling or bumps on the gums

**Causes of Gum Recession**

Gum recession can occur for many reasons. Genetic factors and inadequate or improper oral hygiene can lead to gum issues. The main causes of gum recession are:

- Using a toothbrush with very hard bristles

- Diseases affecting gum tissue

- Tartar and bacterial plaque

- Vitamin C deficiency

- Grinding and clenching teeth

- Poor nutrition leading to a weakened immune system

- Smoking

- Brushing teeth harshly and in the opposite direction of the gums

**How is Gum Recession Treated?**

Early diagnosis and patient awareness during the treatment process increase the success rate of treatment. Following examinations by our expert dentists, tartar must be carefully cleaned. In advanced stages, the treatment method should proceed according to the dentist’s recommendations. Treatment varies based on the patient's condition and oral structure.

**How to Prevent Gum Recession?**

Firstly, patients must maintain proper oral hygiene. Regular check-ups with our expert dentists every six months are essential. Patients undergoing gum treatment and those wanting to prevent gum issues must brush their teeth regularly using the correct technique. It is also important to quit smoking and avoid stress as much as possible. They should maintain a healthy and adequate diet.

Patients with gum recession can use saltwater rinses as a natural treatment method. Salt is the most natural disinfectant for gum diseases.

Gum recession is a significant and serious issue. In its advanced stages, it can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, you should have your teeth regularly checked by reliable expert dentists to protect your oral and dental health and your smile. We would like to meet you at Dentsmile:)