Growing old brings a few perks: retirement, senior discounts, and more time with family. But some unique problems also arise. Gum recession presents a new set of challenges in maintaining oral health. As gums recede, food can stick between teeth and gums, increasing the risk for gum disease. To know how to navigate receding gums, we first need to have a better idea of what gums do. Livonia dentist, Dr. James Stewart, clarifies the function of gums and the process of gum recession.
Receding Gums and Aging
Gums protect teeth from food and other foreign things getting between and beneath teeth. As they recede, gums lose this protective power. This is because gum health relies on the energy our bodies produce. As we get older and put out less energy, our gums begin to lay down their arms. Being vigilant about oral health at this stage of life is crucial since we become vulnerable to gum disease. Although we can’t stop our gums from receding, we can take steps to preventing complications that come with gum recession.
Preventing Gum Recession
Unfortunately, gum recession is inevitable, even for the perfectly healthy. To maintain good oral health despite the situation, a clean mouth certainly helps. Brush and floss regularly and stay on track with routine dental appointments. Avoid highly acidic foods and drinks when you can, or drink water with these products. Subjecting your teeth to too much acid speeds up gum recession, and is detrimental to tooth enamel. Those who grind their teeth at night should wear a mouthguard while sleeping. Along with gum disease, grinding is one of the main aggravators of gum recession. Keep a clean mouth and avoid acidic food and drinks and grinding to keep receding gums manageable.
Schedule a Visit with Your Livonia Dentist
Your 48154 dentist can play a key role in dealing with gum recession. Cleanings from your Livonia family dentist can best clear your mouth of food particles and bacteria. Call (734) 425-4400 to make an appointment today. We welcome patients of all ages from Livonia and surrounding areas.