WHAT IS GUM RECESSION?

Gum (gingival) recession occurs when gums recede from the tops of the teeth enough to expose sensitive roots. People typically experience increased sensitivity to cold drinks and sugary foods and when gums no longer cover and protect teeth roots. In addition, untreated gum recession may lead to loosening of teeth and accelerated tooth decay, something Dr. Alina Bergan DDS sees all too often.

Causes of Gum Recession

·         Periodontal disease – a serious oral disease arising from poor oral habits

·         Gingivitis – gum disease characterized by bleeding and swollen gums

·         Aging

·         Overly aggressive brushing and/or flossing – brushing hard in a scrubbing fashion will erode gum tissue at the roots of teeth

·         Genetic predisposition to gingival recession – having inherited thin, insufficient gum tissue facilitates gum recession

·         Bruxism – a condition where someone regularly grinds their teeth, usually during sleep

·         Chewing tobacco/smoking – promotes chronically dry mouth and reduced gum health

Periodontal gingivitis may also cause causing drooping of the gums instead of gum recession. A gingivectomy removes excess gum tissue weakened by bacterial decay while a gingivoplasty can reshape gums around the teeth. If sagging or receding gums are left untreated, they may develop pockets (gaps) that provide hiding places for food particles, mucus and other mouth debris conducive to anaerobic bacteria growth. As the most destructive type of oral bacteria, anaerobic bacteria is responsible for tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and chronic halitosis (bad breath).

Treatments for Gum Recession

Corrective actions need implemented as soon as possible to reverse gum recession by addressing the cause. For example, people who brush with hard-bristled toothbrushes should switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush more gently. If gum recession is the result of poor oral hygiene, improve oral hygiene habits by brushing after meals, flossing, rinsing with non-alcoholic mouthwash, and getting dental checkups and cleanings every six months. For severe cases of gum recession, soft tissue grafts can add gum tissue to exposed roots by removing tissue from the person's palate and attaching it to existing gums at the area of recession via laser surgery.

If you’re worried about gum recession, visit as today at our Cedarhurst, NY office. Call today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alina Bergan at 800-223-0801. You can also schedule online: http://www.alinabergandds.com/appointments

FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO WITH YOUR TOOTHBRUSH

Do you give your toothbrush any serious thought? Sure, you use it every day (and ideally twice) to make sure your breath is good, and you know that with a dollop of toothpaste it waxes up your pearly whites nicely, not to mention preventing bacteria, plaque, and inflammation.

But what are the things you should never do with your toothbrush? Here’s a brush-up on 5 toothbrush No-Nos, from Alina Bergan DDS.

1. If you have your toothbrush too close to the toilet, you’re brushing your teeth with what’s in your toilet. In other words, keep your toothbrush stored as far from the toilet as possible.

2. The average toothbrush harbors ten million microbes. Most families keep their toothbrushes jammed together in a cup holder on the bathroom sink, but this can lead to cross-contamination. Family members’ toothbrushes should be kept an inch apart. Don’t worry; they won’t take it personally.

3. Don’t delay replacing your toothbrush. It’s best to purchase a new one every three to four months, get one sooner if the bristles are broken down due to your frequent and vigorous brushing. If you have a cold or the flu, replace your toothbrush after you recover.

4. Make sure to store your toothbrush out of the reach of toddlers. The last thing you want is for your toothbrush to be chewed like a pacifier, dipped in toilet water, or used to probe the dusty heating ducts.

5. Sharing is caring, right? Your parents probably taught you the importance of sharing back when you were, well, dipping their improperly stored toothbrushes in toilet water. But here’s the thing: As important as sharing is, there are some things you just don’t share, and your toothbrush is one of them.

Come in a get a free toothbrush today, contact our Cedarhurst, NY office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alina Bergan. Call us at 800-223-0801. You can also schedule online: http://www.alinabergandds.com/appointments