Receding gingivitis is quite a normal condition, but many individuals usually don’t realize that their gums are receding before a severe later stage. The gums, also known as gingivae, consist of very sensitive pink tissue typically located on the lower portion of the mouth along the gingiva. Gingival tissue is thick. It normally has a great supply of blood supply beneath a thin layer of mucus, otherwise called a mucosal membrane.
A person with poor oral health has the possibility to develop symptoms of receding gums. Gum recession may take place if the gums become thicker and more prolonged than they were previously, particularly when the person is suffering from bleeding gums or inflammation of the periodontal pockets. It is also possible to experience early onset of gum recession if there is an absence of dental care or a low level of general oral health. Gum recession that develops over time can create gaps between teeth, which can lead to tooth loss and tooth decay. It is important to see your dentist if you notice your gums receding and/or becoming infected.
Receding gums could also be caused by other factors. These include intrinsic and extrinsic bacteria that accumulate in between the teeth and bone surrounding the gum line. These bacteria produce acid and cause tartar, which irritates the bone and is believed to be a cause of tooth decay. When the bone surrounding the tooth root is irritated, it weakens and makes it easier for the plaque to build up between the tooth root and the bone. If the plaque is not removed in time it will harden and turn into tartar.
Other factors that can contribute to a receding gums include periodontal disease and jaw disorders. In periodontitis, pockets of plaque can grow between the bones of the gums. Bacteria can easily enter these spaces and cause infection. As with periodontitis, jaw disorders can include overbite, underbite and TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). jaw disorders such as these are known to be a cause of tooth loss as well as gum disease.
Symptoms of a receding gums include bleeding gums and a reduction in the size and amount of the gums that remain attached to the teeth. The remaining teeth can begin to shift out of alignment as the roots of the teeth lose support. This can eventually lead to severe tooth loss if not attended to by a dentist soon enough. Another symptom can be the appearance of “canker” or dark splotches on the area of the gums where the roots are attached. Again, if not treated quickly, the “canker” can turn into a “canker” or abscess and ultimately can cause the roots to die and recede.
Tooth sensitivity is another factor that can contribute to a receding gums grow back. When a person’s saliva flow is reduced, there is less saliva which can interact with the taste of the foods consumed. Eventually, the person will develop a sensitivity to certain tastes, which can include sour, salty or sweet tastes. As the gums recession progresses and the tooth loss worsens, the person may experience an increase in tooth sensitivity and possibly develop gum disease as well.
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of a receding gums. Although not necessarily a direct cause, poor oral health care practices are likely a contributing factor. Individuals who are poorly brushing their teeth or do not properly floss are at risk for developing poor oral health. Individuals who have weak immune systems, are suffering from another illness such as cancer or diabetes, and are undergoing chemotherapy are also at risk for developing a receding gums. Gum recession is also more common in those who smoke or have a history of tobacco use.
If you are experiencing a loss in your teeth, it is important to visit your dentist. Your dentist can examine your mouth and teeth and perform a number of tests to assess the level of oral health. However, it is important to note that if you do not begin treatment as soon as possible, the receding gums may cause complications and the symptoms can worsen. For this reason, it is important to take action as soon as you notice a receding gums.