Receding Gums or Gingivitis? – How to Prevent and Treat It!

Are you tired of gum pain and bleeding? You may be suffering from either receding gums or Gingivitis, but don’t worry – there are several ways to prevent and treat it! In this article, we will discuss the causes of receding gums or Gingivitis, how to tell the difference between the two, and how to care for your mouth so that you can keep your teeth healthy and free from harm. Read on to learn more!

A Closer Look at Gingivitis

Regarding your oral health, you should know a few things about Gingivitis. For starters, Gingivitis is a form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can eventually lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease and is reversible with proper treatment.

If you have Gingivitis, you may notice that your gums are red, swollen, and bleed easily. You may also see that your gums feel tender when you brush or floss. These are all signs that your gums are inflamed and need to be treated.

The good news is that Gingivitis is treatable. The first step is to practice good oral hygiene. It means brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

If you have Gingivitis, your dentist may recommend a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing. This procedure removes plaque and tartar below the gum line that your toothbrush can’t reach. Scaling and root planing can usually be done in one or two visits to the dentist’s office.

Gingivitis can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits at home and seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. 

What Are Receding Gums?

Receding gums, also known as gingival recession, is a condition in which the gums around the teeth start to pull away or wear down. It can leave the roots of the teeth exposed, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

There are several causes of receding gums, including poor oral hygiene, genetics, certain medications, and grinding or clenching your teeth. Treatments for receding gums will depend on the underlying cause. For example, if poor oral hygiene is to blame, your dentist may recommend a more aggressive at-home dental care routine or more frequent professional cleanings. You may need special mouthwashes or antibiotics if your receding gums are due to gum disease.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct receding gums. However, some natural methods can help prevent and treat this condition. These include oil pulling with coconut or sesame oil, using aloe vera gel on the gums, and brushing with baking soda.

Why Does It Happen?

There are a few reasons that Gingivitis, or receding gums, can occur. The most common cause is plaque buildup on the teeth. It happens when bacteria in the mouth form a film on the teeth and along the gum line. If this plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove than plaque and can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Another cause of receding gums is gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can destroy the tissue and bone that support the teeth. Gum disease is usually caused by plaque not being removed from the teeth. If you have gum disease, you may not have any symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, you may notice your gums bleeding when you brush your teeth or eat hard foods. You may also notice that your gums are red, swollen, and tender. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist immediately so that they can diagnose and treat the problem.

Finally, receding gums can be caused by orthodontic treatment such as braces or retainers. When these devices are placed on the teeth, they put pressure on the gum tissue, which can cause it to recede over time. If you have orthodontic treatment, your dentist will monitor your gum health closely to ensure that this does not lead to gum disease.

Treatment Options for Receding Gums or Gingivitis

If you notice your gums receding or have been diagnosed with Gingivitis, treatments are available to help improve your gum health. Some treatment options include:

• A deep cleaning by a dental hygienist or dentist is also called scaling and root planing. It involves removing tartar (hardened plaque) and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

• Medications such as antibiotics help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.

• Regular at-home oral care, including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.

• Quit smoking. Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease.

• See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Prevention of Gingivitis and Receding Gums

Prevention of Gingivitis and receding gums starts with good oral hygiene. It means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Smoking is a leading cause of gum disease. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your oral health.

In addition to good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential in preventing Gingivitis and receding gums. During these appointments, your dentist can check for signs of gum disease and provide professional cleanings to remove tartar buildup on your teeth.

Final Words

It’s crucial to understand the difference between gingivitis and receding gums and to be aware of the preventative measures you can take to avoid it. Regular brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are all excellent preventive methods. If you develop receding gums or gingivitis symptoms, seek professional help immediately – early intervention will prove more effective than waiting for later stages to build. This article has helped provide the information needed to identify, treat, and ultimately prevent issues related to receding gum tissue or Gingivitis!