The process of pulling back the margin of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth, exposing its root, is known as gum recession.
Receding gums cause noticeable gaps, which make you prone to the accumulation of bacteria. If you ignore this issue, the supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth can be damaged, leading to tooth loss. This is a common dental problem that occurs gradually, and the first sign is usually tooth sensitivity. Fortunately, there are easy ways to heal receding gums naturally. According to Oral-B, “as receding gums progress over time, you may notice the following symptoms:
Long Teeth
One symptom is the visible lengthening of the teeth. When gums recede because of periodontal disease, the teeth have the appearance of being much longer than normal.
Exposed Roots
Exposed roots are another symptom, and can be extremely sensitive and uncomfortable. They are often a sign of periodontal disease or can be attributed to brushing overly aggressively with a toothbrush with hard bristles.
Loose teeth
When suffering from receding gums, you may notice loose teeth, attributed to the bacteria and periodontal disease under the gums around the teeth. As receding gums worsen, the gum pockets deepen due to loss of attachment structure.”
These are the most common causes of this condition:
Genetic predisposition: Studies have shown that 30% of people are at an increased risk of gum disease due to their genetic makeup.
Periodontal diseases: Gum disease is the leading cause of gum recession. Bacterial gum infections destroy gum tissue and the bone surrounding the tissue.
Hormonal transitions: Fluctuations in female hormone levels, like during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, might cause gum recession.
Harsh tooth brushing: This can make the enamel of the teeth wear away and cause receding gums.
Inadequate dental care: Irregular brushing, rinsing, and flossing can lead to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, causing tartar.
HealthLine lists the following additional causes of gum recession:
- “Sports injury or other trauma to the mouth. For example, body piercing studs of the lip or tongue can rub against the gum tissue, causing a recession.
- Smoking. It’s not just cigarettes, either. You’re at increased risk for gum recession if you chew tobacco or dip with a pouch of tobacco.
- Teeth not in right alignment. Prominent tooth roots, misaligned teeth, or attachment muscles may force gum tissue out of place.
- Poor-fitting partial dentures.
- Teeth grinding while sleeping. Grinding and clenching can put excessive force on your teeth. This can cause gum recession.”
Here are 10 easy ways to heal receding gums naturally, such as:
1. Chamomile Tea
The potent antiseptic properties of chamomile fight inflammation and relieve pain due to gum disease and recession. Therefore, add 2-3 teaspoons of chamomile tea into a cup of hot water, leave to steep for 10 minutes, strain it, and repeat three times daily.
2. Coconut Oil
To eliminate the bacteria-causing acids in the mouth, mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and baking soda, and use the mixture as natural toothpaste twice a week.
3. Green Tea
Green tea ensures the health of the teeth and gums, and it has been confirmed that the consumption of a cup of green tea daily reduced periodontal pocket depth, improves the attachment of the gums to the teeth, and lowers gum bleeding.
4. Myrrh Mix
Add 10-12 drops of myrrh tincture into a cup of warm water, and rinse the mouth with it once daily.
5. Flossing
Flossing is an effective way to fight bacteria and plaque, so practice it a few times daily to ward off gum recession.
6. Cranberry Juice
The high vitamin C content in this juice fights oral problems and prevents receding gums and oral infections. To prevent the accumulation of bacteria and hardening into the teeth, drink four ounces of cranberry juice daily.
7. Sea Salt Rinse
To soothe the pain, inflammation, and gum recession, dissolve a small amount of sea salt into a cup of warm water and swish the mixture in the mouth for 15 seconds. Spit it out and repeat it three times daily.
8. Tea Tree Oil
This amazing oil has awesome antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties that treat gingivitis and gum bleeding. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the toothbrush, and brush the teeth twice daily.
9. Sesame Seed Oil Rinse
Sesame oil has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, so swish a tablespoon of it in the mouth for 15 minutes. Then, spit it out, rinse with water, and repeat daily.
10. Septilin
Septilin boosts the immune system and fights inflammation, so it effectively soothes receding gums.