Receding gums is a major concern for many, especially those identifying the early warning signs like changes in gum shape. For these individuals, they may be worried that there is nothing they can do to prevent their gums from receding even more. The good news? Preventing receding gums and giving yourself a healthy smile is a rather easy endeavor. Let’s take a look at some helpful tips to keep your gums healthy and prevent gum recession.
1. Stay on Top of Your Oral Care Routine
The best way to prevent receding gums is to make sure that you’re providing the best possible care for your teeth and gums. Always brush twice a day, floss daily, and consider adding mouthwash to your routine to further protect your mouth or address specific dental issues that you’re worried about.
2. Identify and Put an End to Common Causes Like Bruxism
Not all gum recession is caused by poor oral care. In fact, there are other causes you might not even know about. One excellent example is bruxism. Bruxism, better known as grinding your teeth, can cause your gums to recede and cause major issues to the health of your teeth that causes them to wear down or crack. If you know that you’re grinding, or if you suspect that it’s happening in your sleep, speak with your dentist so they can supply you with the tools you need in order to combat the effects of bruxism. Your gums and your teeth will thank you!
3. Brush Gently With the Right Toothbrush
There are a lot of people who believe that brushing harder will yield better and more aggressive results than brushing gently. The truth? Brushing harder actually puts you at a higher risk of developing receding gums. You don’t need to brush very hard to get the job done right, and you don’t need to use hard-bristled toothbrushes to clean your mouth either. Use a brush with soft bristles and brush gently. If you have trouble with this, there are plenty of electric toothbrushes that can tell you when you’re using too much force and help you clean your mouth more effectively.
4. Stop Habits That Negatively Affect Your Oral Health
Did you know there are certain substances and habits that can cause gum recession? One major culprit behind receding gums is tobacco. Whether you smoke it or you use chewing tobacco, this can easily cause a buildup of plaque and tartar that will naturally cause a host of oral health issues over time. If you’re looking for a reason to quit, gum recession might be a powerful incentive.
Schedule a Consultation
Finally, and most importantly, you’ll want to schedule regular cleanings with your dentist to stay on top of your dental care and get the support you can’t offer yourself with your regular oral care routine. Are you looking for a trustworthy dentist who can help you maintain your smile or help you identify specific concerns and get your smile back on track? If so, reach out to Locust Valley Dentists and schedule an appointment with us today!
