Causes of Gum Recession in Your 20s
Gum recession is a common problem in adults of all ages, but it can be especially concerning when it happens to someone in their 20s. Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth begins to pull away, exposing more of the tooth and leaving it vulnerable to decay and infection. There are several causes of gum recession, and understanding these causes can help you take steps to prevent or stop the recession from occurring.
Periodontal Disease: One of the most common causes of gum recession is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth, caused by bacteria that builds up due to poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause the gums to become inflamed and recede.
Malocclusion: Malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth, is another common cause of gum recession. When the teeth are misaligned, the pressure of biting and chewing can cause the gums to recede.
Aggressive Brushing: Over-brushing can also cause gum recession. Brushing too hard or too often can cause the gums to recede, as it can irritate the delicate gum tissue.
Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum recession. The chemicals in cigarettes can cause the gums to become inflamed and recede, and smoking can also make it more difficult for the body to fight off gum disease.
Preventing Gum Recession
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent or stop gum recession from occurring.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: The best way to prevent gum recession is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing twice a day and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause periodontal disease.
See Your Dentist: It's important to see your dentist if you notice any signs of gum recession or periodontal disease. Your dentist can diagnose the problem and provide treatment to help stop the recession from progressing.
Quit Smoking: If you smoke, it's important to quit. Smoking can worsen gum recession and make it more difficult for the body to fight off periodontal disease.
Be Gentle When Brushing: Be sure to brush gently and not too often. Brushing too hard or too often can irritate the gums and cause them to recede.
Treat Malocclusion: If you have misaligned teeth, it's important to seek treatment to correct the problem. This can help to reduce the pressure on the gums and prevent recession.
By understanding the causes of gum recession and taking steps to prevent it, you can help to keep your gums healthy and protect your teeth from decay and infection.