I Think My Gums Are Receding Traverse City, MI

At Cherry Bay Dental, we are focused on the health of our patients’ gums just as much as we are focused on their teeth. This is because we understand the critical nature of the gums and the role they play in keeping teeth healthy, strong, and intact. Through regular dental care, we can work to prevent gum disease, and very often, this is the solution. However, if you do notice that your gums have begun to recede, you should call (231) 935-1948 and schedule an appointment with our Traverse City, MI dental office. Since gum recession can lead to further health challenges, it is important to address the issue right away.

Why are gums receding from my teeth?
Genetics can also give you receding gums, so if your parents had this problem, you may as well.

Often times, genetics play a role if your parents had recession due to a thin tissue type, which is more susceptible to wear. If this is the case, it is extremely important to use a soft or even an extra soft toothbrush to protect the tissue that covers your teeth. Also, if your teeth are crooked and your bite is out of alignment, additional strain could be placed on some of your teeth. As a result of abnormal wear patterns, your gums could begin to suffer and eventually recede.

Genetics can also give you receding gums, so if your parents had this problem, you may as well.
If your teeth are crooked and your bite is out of alignment, additional strain could be placed on some of your teeth. As a result of abnormal wear patterns, your gums could begin to suffer and eventually recede.

Why are my gums receding only on one side?
If your gums are only receding on one side, chances are you are unknowingly brushing aggressively on just that side. Another plausible reason for uneven recession is due to crooked teeth or a bite that is off, as recession will often times mirror general wear patterns. However, we don’t want to rule out plaque and tartar irritation, which could be the beginning signs of gum disease, so be sure to have your gum health assessed at our office.

Why are my gums receding on one tooth only?
While this could be related to the other causes listed above, it is most likely due to some type of dental trauma. Perhaps this particular area of the mouth was cut or suffered a severe abrasion. Whether the injury was caused by eating something sharp, your nail, or some outside force, gums can sometimes have difficultly healing and may recede as a result of that injury.

Should I worry about receding gums? Are they really a sign of trouble?
Yes, you should. At Cherry Bay Dental, we encourage all our Traverse City, MI patients to pay attention to their gum health and call us right away if they see their gums bleeding, swelling, or receding. We want to examine you immediately in order to determine if you have gum disease and then to treat it. You are best served by receiving immediate care because this gives us the opportunity to treat the problem using less invasive methods. For example, you may only need a deep cleaning if you come in right away or perhaps you will need an antibiotic treatment as well, but by coming in early, you give your gums the best chance for restoration without the need for a gum graft. Otherwise, if you delay, they could recede to the point that the health of your teeth, your jawbone, and your entire smile are at risk. After all, the majority of people who lose an adult tooth also had gum disease at the time. Preventing and treating it is truly one of the best things you can do for your oral health.

How do you prevent gum recession?
The best way to prevent gum recession is to visit our 49686 dental office for a teeth cleaning twice per year. We can remove the plaque and tartar that has built up over time in order to give your teeth a fresh clean feel while also reducing the likelihood that plaque or tartar will build up. Additionally, you can begin to use a soft toothbrush and monitor how aggressively you brush your teeth.

Is there a way to treat the condition?
Yes, if you are suffering gum recession due to gum disease, we must treat the disease. Generally, this requires us to perform a deep cleaning procedure in order to remove the plaque and tartar from the area in between the teeth and the gums. Once done, your gums can begin to heal and rejuvenate. Oftentimes, if the recession is severe enough, a gum graft may be required to restore the tissue around the teeth as a protective measure. If this is the case, Dr. Pfefferle will refer you to a trusted specialist.

What are the risks of not treating it?
Very simply, given the worst case scenario, you could lose your teeth. Gum recession is typically caused by gum disease. The idea of not treating it is an incredibly risky option because it means that in addition to experiencing uncomfortable teeth and gums, you are also likely to suffer from bone and tooth loss. Another risk is increased tooth decay, as the exposed root is more susceptible to decay than other areas of the tooth. Lastly, you may be experiencing sensitivity due to the recession. It’s important to pay attention to these signs and symptoms and visit your Traverse City dentist as soon as you notice them.

To learn more about gum recession and how to treat it, call our dental office at (231) 935-1948.

Helpful Related Links

• American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015
• WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015

About our business, license, and website security

• Cherry Bay Dental was established in 2010
• We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
• We serve patients from the following counties: Grand Traverse and Leelanau
• We serve patients from the following cities: Traverse City, Kingsley, Acme, Williamsburg, and Old Mission


• Michigan Board of Dentistry (License #2901020314). View License Information and Specifics
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