Teeth cleaning itself does not cause gum recession. However, improper or aggressive teeth cleaning techniques, such as using a hard-bristled brush or brushing too hard, can damage the gums and lead to recession.
Additionally, gum recession can also be caused by gum disease or genetics. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene habits and consult with a dental professional if you experience gum recession.
What is gum recession?
Gum recession is a condition where the gum tissue around the teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing the tooth’s root. The gum recession may be small or extensive, leading to tooth sensitivity, pain, and other complications.
The primary cause of gum recession is gum disease, which can cause bacteria to grow and infect the gums. Other factors that contribute to gum recession include genetics, aggressive tooth brushing, hormonal changes, and lifestyle habits such as smoking and poor diet.
Can teeth cleaning cause gum recession?
Teeth cleaning is an essential part of oral hygiene, and regular cleanings can prevent gum disease and other dental problems. However, some people worry that teeth cleaning might cause gum recession.
In reality, teeth cleaning is not a direct cause of gum recession. On the contrary, regular dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease, which is the leading cause of gum recession.
Teeth cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, are used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums. These procedures may cause temporary discomfort, but they should not cause gum recession if performed by a trained dental professional.
In rare cases, if a dentist or dental hygienist is too aggressive during teeth cleaning, they may damage the gums and cause recession. However, this is uncommon, and most dental professionals are careful and gentle during cleanings.
How to prevent gum recession
Preventing gum recession starts with maintaining good oral hygiene habits. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Quit smoking or using tobacco products.
- Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth, which can put pressure on your gums and lead to recession.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Treatment options for gum recession
If you have gum recession, your dentist may recommend one or more treatment options, depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Scaling and root planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gums to stop the progression of gum disease and encourage the gums to reattach to the teeth.
- Gum graft surgery: In severe cases of gum recession, a gum graft may be necessary. This involves taking tissue from another part of the mouth, such as the roof of the mouth, and attaching it to the affected area to cover the exposed tooth root.
- Pinhole surgical technique: This minimally invasive procedure involves making small holes in the gums and gently pulling the gum tissue down to cover the exposed tooth root.
- Medications: Antibiotics or other medications may be prescribed to control bacterial infections or reduce inflammation in the gums.
Take away
Teeth cleaning is not a direct cause of gum recession, and regular dental cleanings are essential to maintain good oral health and prevent gum disease.
Gum recession can be caused by several factors, including genetics, aggressive tooth brushing, hormonal changes, and lifestyle habits.
Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings can help prevent gum recession.
If you have gum recession, your dentist can recommend treatment options to restore your gum health and prevent further damage. Contact Hills Dental Studio today to schedule a dental appointment and get personalized advice on how to maintain your gum health.
