Are Your Teeth Appearing Taller?

As we age, there is no reason why your smile has to be 'long in the tooth'! It is not the case that as we age our gums naturally recede. If you notice that your crowns are getting longer, it is important to have your dentist examine your teeth.

What Causes Gum to Recede?

Some reasons include

• Overaggressive brushing - your enamel at the gum line can be worn away by scrubbing the sides of the teeth.
• Lack of proper oral hygiene - without regular brushing and flossing bacteria builds up in between the teeth.
• Using chewing tobacco adversely affects the mucus membrane lining in your mouth and can cause your gums to recede.
• A poorly placed tongue or lip piercing can cause your gums to recede.

Receding gums can be difficult to detect and will occur over time. Contact your dentist if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• Increased sensitivity to hot, cold or touch.
• Teeth appear 'longer' than they once did.
• Roots are exposed and visible.
• Tooth feels notched at the gum line.
• Change in tooth colour.
• Spaces between teeth seem to be growing.
• Cavities below the gum line.

The key to treating receding gums is to identify the cause. Once identified treatment can often times be quite simple. If overaggressive brushing is the cause, switching to a softer toothbrush and using a gentler brushing technique can help. If poor plaque control is the issue, regular dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene are a must. In more severe cases, we may have to perform an in-office procedure which will halt the bacteria's destruction of your gums and bone.

With some easy steps and regular consultations with your dentist your smile and beautiful gumline can last you a lifetime.