If you experience a jolt of pain when eating cold foods or drinking cold or hot beverages, it is important that you talk to your dentist about this troubling concern. Gum recession is one of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity, but beyond just the discomfort that you experience, gum recession can also compromise the health of your entire mouth.

Gum recession occurs when the gums recede from the teeth and expose the root of the tooth. The tooth roots are comprised of blood vessels and nerve fibers that supply life to each tooth. When they are exposed, jolts of pain can be felt from temperature changes, biting, and even breathing in cool air. Tooth sensitivity is typically the first sign of gum recession, indicating that you need to visit your dentist. If left untreated, receding gums allow for bacteria to build up at the root of the tooth, damaging the tooth at its life-source and compromising the bone structure that is holding the tooth securely in place.

The most common causes of gum recession are:

• Aggressive tooth brushing. While the teeth need to be brushed well, that does not mean that they need to be brushed hard. Brushing too hard causes the gums to recede and the enamel on the teeth to wear away.
• Gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria-laden plaque building up at the gum line and eating away at the gums. Plaque builds up on the teeth every single day, and it needs to be removed by flossing daily. Gum disease that is left untreated can quickly destroy gum tissue and the supporting bone that holds the teeth in place.
• Misaligned teeth. Teeth that are misaligned cause parts of the gums to be brushed easily while other parts are not easily reached. Having a “straight smile” offers more benefits than simply looking attractive; it also keeps the teeth and gums healthier and cleaner.
• Improper dental hygiene. If you are not flossing your teeth every day, you are making your entire mouth vulnerable to gum recession, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Floss is the only tooth designed to remove plaque buildup at the gum line so that the bacteria do not destroy your gums and your teeth. By flossing and brushing regularly, you are keeping your mouth healthy.

At Gold Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we care about your entire oral health. We understand that gum recession is an indicator of oral health issues that should never be ignored. If you notice that your gums have begun to recede or if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, please contact our dental practice as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.