What is gum recession?
Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is a condition in which the margin of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth’s root. This process can lead to several problems, including increased sensitivity, aesthetic concerns, and an increased risk of tooth decay and loss if left untreated. Gum recession is often a gradual process, so it may not be immediately noticeable to those affected until it becomes more pronounced.
Several factors can contribute to gum recession, including:
- Periodontal Diseases: These are bacterial gum infections that destroy gum tissue and the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place. Gum disease is the most common cause of gum recession.
- Aggressive Tooth Brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away the enamel on your teeth and cause the gums to recede.
- Insufficient Dental Care: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash can lead to plaque turning into tartar—a hard substance that can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning and can lead to gum recession.
- Tobacco Products: Smokers and those who use tobacco products are more likely to have sticky plaque on their teeth, which can cause gum recession.
- Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels during a woman’s lifetime, such as during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can make gums more sensitive and more vulnerable to gum recession.
- Grinding and Clenching Your Teeth: These habits can put too much force on the teeth, causing the gums to recede.
- Misaligned Teeth or Malocclusion: Teeth that do not come together evenly can result in too much force being placed on the gums and bone, leading to recession.
- Genetic Susceptibility: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to gum disease, which can lead to gum recession regardless of how well they care for their teeth.
Nutrients for healthy gums
Healthy gums require a range of vitamins and minerals to maintain their strength, resilience, and ability to fight infection. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most important nutrients for gum health:
Vitamin C
Essential for collagen production, vitamin C helps maintain the integrity of your gums and accelerates healing. A deficiency can lead to bleeding gums and gingivitis. Bell peppers, acerola cherries, camu camu and dark leafy greens are good sources.
Vitamin D
It helps reduce the risk of gum inflammation and disease by playing a role in your immune system function. Your body can produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, and it’s also found in fatty fish and mushrooms.
Calcium
Important for bone health, calcium also supports strong teeth and the underlying jawbone that supports your gums. Almonds, leafy green vegetables, sesame seeds and chia seeds are rich in calcium.
Phosphorus
This mineral works closely with calcium to build and maintain strong teeth and bones. Foods high in phosphorus include pumpkin seeds, Brazil nuts, and chickpeas.
Potassium
Potassium improves bone mineral density and works with magnesium to prevent blood from becoming too acidic, which can leach calcium from your bones and teeth. Burro bananas, avocados, cherry tomatoes, and Swiss chard are good sources of potassium.
Vitamin A
It aids in the maintenance of mucous membranes that cover gum tissues, helping to keep them healthy. Vitamin A can be found in foods like watercress, dandelion greens, kale and red palm oil.
Vitamin K
This vitamin helps in the process of blood clotting and may aid in building strong bones. Low levels of vitamin K can lead to gum bleeding. You can find vitamin K in green leafy vegetables, such as parsley, beet greens, turnip greens, and dandelion greens.
Magnesium
Important for the absorption and metabolism of calcium, magnesium is vital for maintaining healthy teeth and bones, supporting the structure of the gums and jawbone. Hemp seeds, blackstrap molasses, buckwheat, cacao nibs and chia seeds are rich sources.
Zinc
It plays a role in wound healing and supports the immune system, which can help fight off bacteria that cause gum disease. Wild rice, lentils, spirulina, and nuts are excellent sources of zinc.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3s can help reduce the inflammation associated with gum disease. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds and chia seeds, are rich in omega-3s.
Natural remedies
You could soothe symptoms, fortify gum health, and rebuild receding gums from the comfort of your home. These natural remedies can be powerful allies in managing this condition, keeping your gums stronger and healthier.
Here are some natural approaches that may help slow gum recession:
- Oil Pulling: This traditional remedy involves swishing oil, such as coconut, sesame, or olive oil, in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes and then spitting it out. It’s believed to help remove toxins and improve oral health.
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution can help soothe inflamed gums and kill bacteria. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it as a mouth rinse once or twice a day.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Applying aloe vera gel to the gums can help soothe inflammation. Use it as a mouthwash by diluting aloe vera juice in water or apply it directly to the gums.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth clean and supports overall health. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can lead to plaque buildup.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is the most crucial step. Brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day and floss daily.
Gum recession is a common dental concern that not only affects the aesthetics of your smile but can also lead to serious dental issues if left unchecked. Understanding the factors that contribute to gum recession is the first step in preventing this condition. By recognising harmful habits, such as aggressive brushing or tobacco use, individuals can make lifestyle adjustments to protect their gums. By adopting a holistic approach to oral health, combining preventative measures, nutritional support, and natural remedies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of gum recession and maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.
