Is Gum Shrinkage Normal?

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Have you noticed your gums pulling away from your teeth or seeming to shrink? This is a cause for contacting a dentist for a thorough dental exam in Little Rock, AK. Take a look at the causes of shrinking gum tissue and how the issue could be treated below. 

Common Causes of Shrinking Gum Tissue 

Gum shrinkage may not always have a singular cause. In many cases, the problem stems from several factors, such as: 

 

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup along the gum line, causing inflammation and eventually gum recession.
  • Gum Disease: Periodontal diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis can cause gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, leading to recession.
  • Genetics: Some people are predisposed to gum recession due to their genetic makeup.
  • Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away gum tissue over time.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can contribute to gum shrinkage and other oral health issues.

How Is Gum Tissue Shrinkage Treated?

If you notice gum shrinkage, reach out to your dentist for a thorough evaluation. There may be things you can change or procedures that can help with the issue. Practicing proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing techniques, prevents gum recession and promotes gum health. Scaling and root planing remove plaque, which can be important for gums to heal and reattach. Gum grafting is a surgical procedure viable for some patients that covers exposed roots in severe recession. Laser therapy may also be recommended to stimulate gum regeneration.

Seek the Advice of a Little Rock Dentist 

If you notice signs of gum shrinkage, such as exposed tooth roots, increased tooth sensitivity, or changes in the appearance of your gums, it’s essential to seek advice from a Little Rock, AK dentist as soon as possible. Don’t let gum shrinkage go untreated – schedule an appointment with Mounts Dental Care today for comprehensive dental care tailored to your needs.

Why Do My Gums Bleed?

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Do your gums bleed when brushing your teeth, flossing, or even chewing your food? If so, this can be a sign of a dental problem. Knowing what causes your gums to bleed and what you should do about that problem can help you take care of your teeth.

At Mounts Dental Care, we can help patients diagnose and treat issues relating to their oral health. As yourdentist in North Little Rock, AR, we can help. Here’s what you need to know.

What Causes Gums to Bleed?

Gums can bleed when injured, like if you hit your mouth or were in an accident. Bleeding gums can occur for various other reasons, including medical conditions like pregnancy and leukemia, vitamin deficiency, and brushing or flossing too hard. Certain medications can cause your gums to bleed as well.

However, if your mouth has not recently been injured and if you have no conditions or medications that could cause bleeding gums, this could be a sign of periodontal disease. Patients who have periodontal disease have a lot of inflammation that can cause bleeding when they’re doing activities like flossing, brushing, or eating.

What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

If you have periodontal disease, you’ll notice problems like red, puffy gums, bleeding gums, bad breath that persists even after brushing your teeth, loose teeth, tooth and gum discomfort, and gum recession.

If you have this condition, getting treatment from your dentist as soon as possible is important. Your dentist may recommend a special cleaning or even medication for this problem. Start with adental examination in North Little Rock to determine if you have periodontal disease.