Q.
I am a little worried about my gums. At the very front they seem to have receded slightly. Also my teeth have become a little sensitive. I am 34 yrs of age and have always had great teeth so really want to keep it that way. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I am a little worried about my gums. At the very front they seem to have receded slightly. Also my teeth have become a little sensitive. I am 34 yrs of age and have always had great teeth so really want to keep it that way. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
A.
There are various reasons why gums may recede. Some people have gum disease (inflammation of the gums caused by plaque) resulting in bone loss and as a consequence shrinkage of the gums that cover the bone and teeth. However it is very common to experience gum recession in healthy situations that may be your case. This is normally caused by too vigorous brushing and is predisposed by having very thin gums, which many people have. The sensitivity is also rather common and can be caused by the exposure of the root that does not have enamel protection. If your gums are healthy slight recessions do not represent a risk for the tooth. If the recession becomes a problem (too sensitive, increasing despite adequate brushing technique, or cosmetic concerns) there are grafting techniques that in many situations can repair the damage and can reposition the gum to the original level.
There are various reasons why gums may recede. Some people have gum disease (inflammation of the gums caused by plaque) resulting in bone loss and as a consequence shrinkage of the gums that cover the bone and teeth. However it is very common to experience gum recession in healthy situations that may be your case. This is normally caused by too vigorous brushing and is predisposed by having very thin gums, which many people have. The sensitivity is also rather common and can be caused by the exposure of the root that does not have enamel protection. If your gums are healthy slight recessions do not represent a risk for the tooth. If the recession becomes a problem (too sensitive, increasing despite adequate brushing technique, or cosmetic concerns) there are grafting techniques that in many situations can repair the damage and can reposition the gum to the original level.
Dr Jose Zurdo
Mall Dental Care
Pall Mall, Manchester, M2 4DU
Web: www.malldental.com Tel: 0161 830 7300
