If tooth sensitivity affects you, perhaps an overlooked dental issue is the cause. Gum recession is one of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity, according to my dentist in Kennewick, WA. Gum recession is one of those dental problems many people do not realize can affect them. In this article, we help you better understand this common condition, its connection to tooth sensitivity, and how you can better protect your oral health.

What is Gum Recession?

Gum recession occurs when the tissue around the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing the tooth’s root. Normally, the tooth root is protected by a hard, thick layer of enamel, but when gum recession occurs, it becomes exposed. Without enamel protection, the tooth root becomes highly sensitive to external stimuli, including hot and cold temperatures and sweet and acidic foods.

Enjoying certain foods and drinks can be difficult or impossible for people with gum recession due to increased tooth sensitivity. Brushing and flossing may feel uncomfortable or outright painful. This can cause poor oral hygiene habits, which further exasperate the problem.

Causes of Gum Recession

Many factors contribute to the gum recession. Most conditions leading to gum recession are preventable, provided you practice good oral hygiene and maintain regular dental visits. Dentists have treatment recommendations and options available.

Causes of gum recession include:

• Periodontal Disease: One of the leading causes of gum recession, periodontal disease starts as gingivitis and if not treated, progresses to periodontitis. Periodontal disease is caused by an infection that spreads to bone and other structures in the mouth. The bacteria destroy the gum and tissue bone, leading to gum recession. Gingivitis and periodontal disease are preventable with proper oral hygiene and dental care.
• Improperly Brushing Your Teeth: Brushing your teeth should be done with a medium or soft bristle toothbrush using a gentle, circular motion. If too much pressure is applied when brushing, it can lead to gum recession.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, particularly those experienced by pregnant women and during menopause, cause hormonal fluctuations that leave gums sensitive and at an increased risk of inflammation.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to care for your oral health causes plaque and tartar buildup which irritates the gums. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, is removed by brushing and flossing. When it remains on the teeth, it can lead to gum disease and gum recession. Poor oral hygiene also leads to bad breath, cavities, and additional concerns.
• Tobacco Use: Tobacco use is another risk factor for gum recession. Tobacco weakens the immune system and restricts blood flow to the gums.
• Genetics: People who have a family history of gum recession and gum disease are at a higher risk of developing oral health conditions. Thank mom, dad, and your grandparents for this one.

How Gum Recession Causes Tooth Sensitivity

When the tooth is left without the protective layer of enamel, the underlying dentin is exposed. Dentin, a porous tissue, connects to the nerves of the tooth. It’s similar to enamel, but far less durable and doesn’t provide the same level of protection. Once exposed, the tooth root becomes vulnerable to any external stimulus, leading to pain and discomfort.

For some people, tooth sensitivity is mild, while for others, it can affect their daily lives, how they speak and communicate, and their ability to chew food and drink beverages. Some food, drink or activities may impact tooth sensitivity more harshly than others. This differs from one person to another.

How to Prevent and Treat Gum Recession and Tooth Sensitivity

It’s scary to think that gum recession can occur and cause so many oral health concerns, especially when so many people aren’t aware that it can occur. With the right oral hygiene habits, you can prevent or minimize your risks and treat the problem if it has already affected you. Here are a few tips to help minimize your risks.

• Brush Correctly: As mentioned earlier, there is a right and wrong way to brush your teeth. Ensure you brush your teeth gently, using a circular motion, for two minutes. Do not use back-and-forth strokes or aggressively handle the toothbrush.
• Floss Daily: Flossing once per day helps remove debris, food, plaque, and tartar stuck between the teeth that brushing alone can miss.  Flossing daily helps minimize the risk of gum disease.
• Use Dental Tools: Dental tools like night guards help protect your teeth and minimize the occurrence of gum recession. The device fits on the teeth and is worn while you sleep to prevent clenching and grinding.
• Visit Your Dentist: Nothing prevents oral health issues better than visits to the dentist. The American Dental Association (ADA) says everyone should see the dentist twice annually for preventative care. It’s much easier to prevent oral health problems than treat them, and during these visits, your dentist can detect problems early and begin treating them.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: How many times have you heard the saying, “You are what you eat?” It’s true. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and focus on a diet high in vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals. You’ll enjoy more energy, improved sleep, and better overall oral health when you maintain a healthy diet.
• Use Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth daily with an antibacterial mouthwash. A mouthwash helps freshen your breath and reduces plaque buildup, giving you an extra hand at fighting gum disease. It even kills bacteria that contribute to infections.

The Bottom Line

Gum recession is a serious dental condition that can cause tooth sensitivity and other problems. Sadly, it’s not a condition known to many people. Luckily, you are not among those individuals. Use the information presented here to take a proactive approach to this condition, whether you are preventing or treating it. Following this information helps preserve the health of your teeth and gums for years ahead, giving you a confident, happy, and bright smile.

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