Why Some People Have Thinner Gums Than Others

The most known dental disorders are cavities, tooth decay and mouth ulcers. Many people are unaware that thin gums can also be a problem, despite it being a common issue. It has several adverse effects like other oral complications, but it is treatable if you visit a dentist early enough.

Thin gums are also called receding gums. Although this condition isn’t easy to notice, you can tell that individuals suffer from it if their teeth appear longer than usual.

Most people fail to notice gum recession because the process is gradual. Your teeth become more sensitive to hot and cold foods, sugary treats, and acids. These symptoms occur when the recession exposes the inner part of the affected teeth. The exposed parts then react adversely to what should be normal oral stimuli.

It’s worth noting that some individuals are more susceptible to this condition than others. Your lifestyle and oral habits also increase or lower the risk of experiencing gum recession. For instance, brushing too much erodes your enamel and exposes your teeth, separating them from the gums. On the other hand, failing to brush your teeth causes plaque accumulation. When this plaque hardens into tartar, it also separates your teeth from your gums.

Hormonal fluctuations can also cause the thinning of gums. During puberty, girls experience an uneven secretion of hormones. The same happens when they reach menopause and during pregnancy. The fluctuations affect teeth and gum health, making them vulnerable to gum recession and periodontal disease.

Another cause of gum recession is introducing foreign material into your mouth, especially metal. For instance, piercing your tongue or lips can rub against your gums, resulting in thinning. Sometimes, the metal might react adversely with your blood and skin, increasing the risk of poor oral health.

Why Do Some People Have Thin Gums?

Smoking causes bad breath and tooth discolouration. It also increases the risk of gum disease. How? Tobacco contains chemicals that compromise the outer surface of your teeth, creating a perfect spot for plaque accumulation. Poor oral hygiene quickens the hardening of plaque into tartar, increasing the risk of thinning gums and related complications.

People with improperly aligned teeth are more likely to experience thinning gums. When you have more teeth on one section of your mouth, they exert extra pressure on the gum underneath, causing it to separate from your teeth. The same also happens to people who suffer bruxism, the involuntary teeth grinding.

How does the separation mentioned above hurt your oral health? When there are gaps between your teeth and gum, bacteria use the space as a breeding ground. The resultant bacterial infection causes gum swelling and bleeding, severe pain, and increases the risk of bad breath. Over time, these symptoms can cause gum disease and tooth loss.

Wrapping Up

As mentioned earlier, the best ways of preventing gum recession are observing proper oral hygiene and visiting a dentist once every six months. The treatment your doctor administers will depend on the extent of the condition. For mild recessions, professional cleaning is adequate. However, severe thinning requires surgery. These services and other forms of oral care are offered in the dental clinic in Maroubra.

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