Braces, fillings, root canals, whitening, crowns. We do all that and more just for a winning smile. And who doesn’t want a smile so perfect that it makes you smile even bigger?

But there’s more to getting that beautiful smile than caring for your pearly whites. That’s right, don’t forget those gums! Diseases and gum conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis can also have a negative effect on your perfect smile. And so can gum recession.

What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession occurs when your gums start to wear away or pull back from your teeth, revealing more of your tooth’s root. This creates gaps between your teeth and gums where bacteria can build up. Often gum recession is a sign of a gum disease.

There are lots of causes for gum recession such as periodontal disease, hormonal changes, pregnancy, grinding or clenching your teeth, and even brushing your teeth too aggressively. Yep, excessive brushing can be dangerous to your gums!

There are some signs you can watch for to clue you in on whether you have gum recession or not. The main sign is simply being able to see the roots of your teeth exposed. Some other symptoms include swollen gums, gum bleeding, sensitivity of teeth, and bad breath.

Natural Remedies For Gum Recession

If you fear you have gum recession, or to take preventative care against it, try out some of these natural remedies!