I'm scared of receding gums. Is it bad or am I overreacting? (Photo)

Question

I'm really scared about gum recession especially on my front lower teeth. I have had braces and have a permenant bracket on the bottom inside of my front teeth. My gums don't bleed or hurt but I worry everyday about someday losing my teeth or needing surgery. Is it bad or am I overreacting?

Neal Nealis, DDS (retired) · Answer

Hi Tennessee, You have a common problem and it should be a concern. I'm impressed that you are aware of the problem as most people wait until the problem is far worse before they perceive trouble. The cause of your recession is that you have a thin layer of bone on the front of your teeth, and the gums get their support from this bone. Being so thin makes it delicate. It is will not be a problem so long as the gums and bone do not recede further. To protect what you have brush delicately with a soft or even extra soft toothbrush, have your teeth cleaned at least twice yearly (more often if you develop tartar in less than six months) and have your dentist measure from the tips of the teeth to the gum line on each tooth and record the measurement. In successive years repeat this measurement and compare the two. So long as the recession does not worsen, don't worry.

Gary Michaelson, DDS (retired) · Answer

Looking at the photo I don't think you have much to be worried about.There may be some slight recession there but it doesn't appear significant. When you have your teeth cleaned they will be able to take a closer look. I the meantime make sure you're using a soft toothbrush and brush gently.

I'm scared of receding gums. Is it bad or am I overreacting? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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I'm scared of receding gums. Is it bad or am I overreacting? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Gum Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.