I need help with receding gums

Receding gums - Auckland, St Heliers. Learn what is making your gums recede and how to prevent it.

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When your gums start to recede, you might be worried about your appearance or the safety of your teeth. We can help prevent it from getting worse.

How do I know if I have receding gums?

You may notice that some of your teeth look longer than before, and you can see the part of the tooth that normally sits below the gum line. If your gums have receded a lot, you might also begin to feel sensitivity or pain when consuming hot or cold food and drinks. The reason for this is that the sensitive root of your tooth is becoming exposed. If your receding gums are caused by gum disease, you may also experience bad breath and bleeding when you brush your teeth.

Why do I have receding gums?

There are many contributing factors to gum recession. It may have happened because of your brushing routine or lifestyle, or because of physical factors beyond your control. Genetics, crooked teeth, an uneven bite, hormonal imbalances, and diseases like diabetes can all lead to receding gums. They may have receded due to over-brushing, gum disease from poor dental hygiene, smoking, piercings that are irritating your gums, or having braces at an older age.

What treatments are available for receding gums?

If your gums are receding, we can help with a mixture of preventative and restorative treatments.

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An attractive woman smiles confidently, showing her healthy and strong teeth after a visit to dentist, Dr Dave Richards, of Natural Smile Dental St Heliers, Auckland.
The luxurious, clean, quality Natural Smile Dental clinic in St Heliers, Auckland provides dental and cosmetic services using advanced technology for a stress-free dentist visit.

Common questions about receding gums

  • When your gums recede to the point where the root of your tooth is exposed, it can make your tooth hurt. Because the roots of your teeth don’t have the same protective enamel covering as the rest of your tooth (they are covered with a weaker substance called cementum) they are much more sensitive.

  • Receding gums can be an indicator of serious gum disease, which can cause tooth decay and tooth loss. Without treatment, you may suffer from bone damage and loss around the affected tooth, and it could become wiggly or even fall out.

  • Yes, in severe cases, the gum tissue can be rebuilt by an oral surgeon. However, most treatments involve caring for the exposed area of the tooth by treating sensitivity and covering the root with a protective sealant or filling. We will assess the extent of your gum recession and help you choose the treatment that suits your needs best.

  • Unfortunately, there aren’t any self-care techniques that will reverse your receded gums, but you can prevent them from getting worse. If they are receding because of overbrushing, we can help you change your brushing technique. Regular dental check-ups and cleaning will ensure gum disease is kept at bay.

  • Good oral hygiene is vital to keeping your gums healthy. That means brushing and flossing regularly and eating a balanced diet. Cutting out smoking or vaping will also help. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and get your teeth professionally cleaned to ensure you don’t get a build-up of tartar along the gum line. Our EMS hygiene treatment can get your teeth spotlessly clean without scraping.

  • The cost of treating your receding gums will vary depending on how severe the problem is, and the treatments required to make you pain-free again. We’ll work through a treatment plan with you that fits your budget. Remember, receding gums can usually be halted with preventative care, so please come and see us as soon as you experience a problem.