You may notice the gap between your teeth is slightly changing, or you've started to get a lot of food stuck in your teeth.  This is due to receding gums and it's a bigger problem than you may initially think.  When gums recede the tissue surrounding the tooth disappears, exposing more and more tooth structure, eventually exposing the tooth's root.  The bone holding the tooth becomes compromised, your tooth becomes loose and could eventually fall out. What can you do to prevent this from happening?  Regular check ups at the dentist help.  Each appointment your hygienist is checking for pockets that can form around your tooth at the gumline.  These pockets hold bacteria which destroys the gum tissue and the supporting bone that holds your teeth in place.  The pockets of bacteria are what we call periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease is the number one reason for gum recession.  Other causes for gum recession include; aggressive tooth brushing, insufficient dental care, hormonal … [Read more...]