Why are my gums receding?

Question:

Why does [the gum push down away from my tooth]? It looks like there won’t be support to my tooth if it [keeps] on happening. Is there any solution for it?

Answer:

It sounds like what you’re describing is a severe case of gingival recession.

What Causes Gingival Recession

Severe recession usually results from gingivitis or periodontitis.  Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums around the tooth.  Periodontitis is similar to gingivitis, except it also includes loss of bone around the tooth and shrinkage of the gum tissues away from the tooth.

How to Prevent Gingivitis/Gum Recession

You want to try your best to preserve the tooth and its surrounding structures.  The gums (gingiva) usually shrink away from the teeth because bacteria have accumulated in areas around the tooth.  The bacteria cause our immune system to react in several ways to fight it off.  A combination of our immune system reactions and the harmful toxins released from the bacteria lead up to periodontitis (the gums shrinking away from the tooth).

The best way to treat this is to FLOSS EVERYDAY especially around this tooth and be sure to brush thoroughly all surfaces of your teeth.  If not, bacteria will continue to accumulate around your gumline and continue to add to your condition.

Is the tooth loose?  If so, you may need to visit your dentist for further evaluation.

Is there plaque or calculus around the tooth?  If yes, you will need a dental cleaning in order to effectively remove all of the bacteria from this area.

If the gum recession is severe, you can always visit your dentist for a periodontal graft to assist in replacing the tissue.

As a reminder, be sure to begin to take steps to treat this situation now.  If allowed to worsen, the tooth could eventually become loose and even fall out.  View our articles on Brushing and Flossing for more details on how to properly clean your teeth.

Good luck,

SaveMySmile Team