Receding gums are a common dental condition that affects over 60% of the world’s population. It can be caused by a wide variety of factors, such as genetics, gum disease, bruxism (teeth grinding), and harsh brushing. One of the major problems that people with receding gums will experience is the gradual pain, and in most cases, people don’t realize their gums are receding.
Studies show that visiting your dentist at least once every six months will help maintain a good oral health and reduce the risk of developing receding gums and gum-related diseases.
Gum recession is a fairly common dental issue that occurs when your gums recede. It exposes more of your teeth and your roots, making it susceptible to certain dental problems. Gum recession gradually happens, so it may easily go unnoticed.
Why Are Receding Gums Bad?
When your gums recede, your teeth and roots become more susceptible to dangerous bacteria and diseases associated with this bacteria. Your gums protect your teeth from harmful bacteria through two ways; The first is the attached gingiva, which attaches your teeth to the bone, and the second way is the gingival mucosa, which shields the insides of your cheeks and gums.
Receding gums are usually noticed at a part of the gum, known as the gingival margin, the gums that surround your teeth. The gingival margin pulls away from your teeth, then leaves ‘pockets’ where bacteria can invade the roots. If it is not treated on time, this can cause tooth decay, and in rare cases, tooth loss.