Worried about issues with your gums? Here's how to recognize the signs of gum disease and receding gums, and what to do about it.

2. All of the focus on oral health for most people
centers around their teeth. But neglecting gums
can be just as harmful to your health. Receding
gums, which can occur when they aren’t treated
properly, can expose the roots of teeth and cause
sensitivity and bacterial buildup. If you have
noticed or felt the roots of your teeth being more
exposed, make an appointment with a dentist
and see how you can help prevent it. Here are
some specific causes of receding gums.

3. Teeth Grinding
Grinding your teeth at night is one issue that
not only negatively affects the teeth, but the
gums as well. The irritation from grinding can
lead to the gum line pulling back. Another bad
habit that causes receding gums is a bad diet,
which can increase your plaque buildup.

4. Genetics
You can be genetically predisposed to receding
gums and other oral issues. Certain diseases and
illnesses can also cause receding gums. The
obvious is gum disease, but others like diabetes
can cause receding gums as well. Certain
medications taken to treat other illnesses can
cause the side effect of dry mouth, which can
lead to an increase in bacteria which increases
the risk of getting gum disease. Make sure to pay
attention to the side effects of any medication
you use and take care to ensure that you keep the
reduction of saliva at bay.

5. So, how can you prevent gum disease?
Brushing and flossing is a great way to prevent
against plaque buildup and gum disease. But
brushing the wrong way can actually do more
bad than good and cause gum lines to recede.
It is best to brush softly and with soft bristles.
If you brush hard or with bristles that are too
hard, it can cause damage to the gums over
time and does not improve the plaque
removal.

6. Regular Checkups are a must!
Even if you brush frequently (and well),
nothing can replace going to the dentist for a
regular checkup to ensure that your gums and
teeth are healthy and being treated well. If
you are in the Rocklin area and want the
highest quality dental care with the best
equipment available, Serenity Dental is the
best choice for you.

7. Serenity Dental of Rocklin
SerenityDental.net
(916) 630-1084