Receding gums, or, in technical terms, gingival recession, are definitely not things to be trifled with. If nothing is done about it, this insidious process leads to serious oral problems, starting with tooth sensitivity, loosening of the teeth, and even tooth loss. When gums begin to recede or symptoms first appear, quite a few people turn to toothpastes that have been specially developed to treat or prevent gum problems. These toothpastes promise to not only improve gum health but also stop or slow gum recession. In this context, in the following article, we will examine how toothpaste works against receding gums, which active ingredients it ideally contains, and to what extent it actually represents an effective solution for the treatment of gum problems.
What exactly is meant by gum recession?
Gum recession, or gingival recession, is the process by which the gums gradually recede, leaving the teeth partially or completely uncovered. This recession of the gums results in the visible part of the tooth (the crown) being less surrounded by gum and the root of the tooth becoming increasingly exposed. Exposed tooth necks are more sensitive to temperature, touch, and various stimuli and are more susceptible to tooth decay. In addition to aesthetic problems, receding gums primarily cause functional problems, destabilize the entire periodontium, and should definitely be taken seriously.
Causes of gum recession
Receding gums are caused by various causes that include a variety of factors. Here are the main causes, some of which we can influence and some, unfortunately, not:
Poor oral hygiene
Inadequate or irregular teeth cleaning inevitably leads to the formation of plaque and tartar, which in turn contributes to gum inflammation and recession.
Gum disease
Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (inflammation of the periodontium) cause gum recession if left untreated. These infections often lead to gum deterioration and bone loss.
Genetic predisposition
The genetic predisposition to thin or weak gums can increase the risk of gum recession.
Smoking and tobacco use
Chemical substances in tobacco smoke disrupt blood circulation in the gums, which weakens them and promotes disease.
Grinding of teeth
Bruxism, the grinding of teeth at night, not only puts strain on the teeth but, in many cases, also affects the gums.
Improper tooth position or anatomy
Improper tooth position or abnormal dental anatomy can cause excessive pressure on the gums, ultimately making them vulnerable.
Lip ties are too tight
Lip frenums that are set too high and are therefore very tight can pull the gums back. It is therefore important to consult a dentist if you suspect receding gums and to rule out this cause.
Gum recession symptoms
Receding gums can present with various symptoms that indicate the progression of this condition. The most common symptoms include:
Visible changes in the gums
The gums may be red, inflamed, and swollen. In some places, the gums may appear thin and receded, while in other places they may appear normal or thickened.
Bleeding when brushing your teeth
Receding gums are almost always accompanied by bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing.
Changes in the gum line
The normal, even gum line can become uneven, and pockets or depressions form between the gums and teeth where bacteria collect and further promote inflammation.
Bad breath or bad taste
Some patients report bad breath or an unpleasant taste in their mouth. This is caused by bad bacteria that build up in the inflamed areas and continue to multiply.
Exposed tooth necks
Retraction of the gums results in the roots of the teeth being partially or completely uncovered. This creates exposed tooth necks that should normally be surrounded by gums.
Pain-sensitive teeth
Exposed tooth necks are more sensitive to external stimuli such as hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks. This leads to increased tooth and neck sensitivity and lightning-like pain.
Loosening of teeth
In the advanced stages of gum recession, the affected teeth become loose because the loss of gums also affects how the teeth hold. This causes the entire periodontium to become unstable, and the chewing mechanics can be impaired.
Consequences of gum recession
Receding gums usually have serious effects on oral health if not stopped in time. The consequences include:
Tooth sensitivity
Exposed tooth necks caused by receding gums cause increased tooth sensitivity. Changes in temperature or certain foods cause pain and discomfort.
Tooth decay and gum inflammation
Exposed tooth necks make the tooth more susceptible to tooth decay because the sensitive tooth enamel is no longer protected by the gums. The risk of gum inflammation also increases because bacteria can more easily penetrate the exposed areas.
Tooth loss
In the advanced stages, the receding gums cause the teeth to become loose. Without proper treatment, this ultimately means tooth loss.
Aesthetic problems
Retraction of the gums leads to uneven tooth lines and elongated teeth, which is perceived as a cosmetic problem and affects the smile.
Difficulty cleaning teeth
Exposed tooth necks and uneven gum lines make it difficult to clean and care for the affected teeth. This further increases the susceptibility to dental problems.
Gingival recession and bone loss
Progressive gum recession can lead to gingival recession (further receding of the gums) and bone loss around the teeth, which compromises the structural support of the teeth.
Best toothpaste for gum recession
A toothpaste that counteracts gum recession should have protective as well as soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. When caring for inflamed or sensitive gums, it is very important to use a toothpaste that is extremely gentle on the gums. Therefore, when choosing the right toothpaste, pay particular attention to a low abrasion value. All ingredients that are too aggressive for teeth and gums have no place in such dental care, such as microplastics.
With regular use and conscientious brushing technique, a toothpaste like this can make a big difference. Ideally, you should act prophylactically, but even if the first signs, such as bleeding during dental care, indicate dangerous gum recession, good toothpastes with the right ingredients can often turn things around. You would do well not to brush aside the first signs, but to take them seriously. The beginning of receding gums endangers your entire periodontium and thus your carefree smile.
You have it in your hand
Let's assume that you often see blood when brushing your teeth, or that your gums are irritated, red, or swollen. If you take your dental health into your own hands now and add the right products to your dental care routine, you can easily prevent receding gums. MINT has the ultimate dental care line for your gum health. All products aim to heal and continually strengthen your gums. In combination with a professional teeth cleaning at your dentist and the clarification of any medical measures related to your disease, you have all the trump cards with MINT Paro+ gum care.
The best for your gum health from MINT - MINT Paro+
The products in the MINT Paro+ line have been carefully developed and rely on high-quality, regenerative active ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties to heal, nourish, and protect the gums. With natural active ingredients such as allantonin, panthenol, chamomile extract, menthol, and eucalyptol, as well as minimally abrasive cleaning performance and the absence of microplastics, the MINT Paro+ line meets all the criteria that make up optimal gum care. The Paro+ toothpaste gently cares for the gums with an abrasion value (RDA value) of 39 out of a possible 250, so not only the gums but also the tooth enamel are protected, acute inflammation is alleviated, and the gums can regenerate.
The MINT Paro+ toothpaste, the MINT Paro+ mouthwash, and the MINT Paro+ hyaluronic gum serum precisely meet these requirements and offer a comprehensive wellness package for the gums. They provide everything you need to radiate health, ensure optimal protection, and prevent gum recession from occurring.
Click here for our MINT Paro+ line . Get all the information and take a look at the sensational experiences of our satisfied customers.
But be careful!
We would like to emphasize that after a certain stage of gum recession, treatment with a high-quality toothpaste alone is no longer sufficient. If gum recession is already advanced and has led to structural problems, such as tooth loosening or severe gingival recession, toothpaste is powerless as a lone fighter. It is important to maintain proper dental care, however, continued dental health must now be ensured as a team, and therefore, it is essential to see a dentist to discuss appropriate treatment measures that will stop gum recession immediately.
Gum recession treatment
Treatment for receding gums includes various measures aimed at stabilizing the condition and preventing further damage. A fundamental step in treatment is a professional teeth cleaning, which removes plaque, plaque, and tartar to reduce inflammation. Improved oral hygiene plays a crucial role: proper brushing techniques are taught, and special aids such as soft toothbrushes or dental floss are recommended to gently clean the gums.
As mentioned, specialized toothpastes or mouthwashes help relieve gum inflammation and promote healing. However, in advanced cases, surgical treatment may be necessary, which includes gum grafting or mucous membrane grafting. Gum transplants involve taking tissue from another area of the mouth and transplanting it to the affected area to replace the damaged tissue.
Regular follow-up care and dental check-ups are essential after treatment to monitor the condition of the gums and prevent deterioration. Identifying individual risk factors and adapting treatment methods to the individual case are crucial to effectively treating receding gums and preventing further problems. Your dentist will help you determine the best course of action and develop long-term strategies to maintain your overall oral health.
Are the gums re-forming?
Unfortunately, the gums only have a limited ability to heal or regenerate themselves. When gums recede, they are unable to completely reform, unlike other body tissues such as skin.
However, there are certain treatments that aim to regenerate the gums or at least stop the progression of gum recession. Techniques such as gum grafts or mucous membrane grafts can be used to take tissue from other areas of the mouth and transfer it to the affected area. This not only strengthens the gums, but also serves the aesthetic aspect by covering exposed tooth necks.
Stop gum recession
Here are some tips on how you can act preventatively and stop or at least slow down gum recession:
Good oral hygiene
Consistent and thorough oral hygiene is crucial to avoiding gum problems. Regular brushing twice a day and flossing help remove plaque and prevent gum disease.
Be careful when choosing your toothbrush
Ideally, use a high-quality, soft-to-medium-hard toothbrush and look for rounded bristles to provide gentle cleaning to your teeth and gums. Hard bristles or brushing too hard damage the gums and can cause gum recession.
Gentle brushing movements
Always brush from the gum line downwards or upwards, and do not apply too much pressure. There is no need to scrub your teeth aggressively to remove plaque. Gentle movements are completely sufficient and cannot irritate or even injure the gums.
Toothpaste with fluoride or hydroxyapatite
Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Fluoride helps remineralize tooth enamel and protects against acid exposure. Alternatively, you can also use a fluoride-free toothpaste with the innovative active ingredient hydroxyapatite, which, like fluoride, sustainably strengthens your teeth and protects against tooth decay.
To the MINT Classic line with the Daily Essentials; toothpaste with fluoride for the morning and toothpaste with hydroxyapatite for the evening.
Dental floss and interspace brushing
In addition to brushing your teeth, using dental floss or interdental brushes is important to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line, where the toothbrush may not reach.
Mouthwashes
You can also use mouthwash to easily clean all the places you can't reach with a toothbrush. Using special mouthwashes helps reduce plaque and protect gums. Ideally, you should use a mouthwash with antibacterial or anti-inflammatory effects, like this...
…MINT Paro+ mouthwash
The MINT Paro+ mouthwash with hyaluronic acid and a pleasantly fruity melon flavor is ideal for cleaning between teeth. It has an antioxidant effect, soothes and strengthens stressed gums with a mild, soothing texture.
The highly effective combination of active ingredients in the mouthwash consists of a special vitamin complex (vitamins B, E, and K) and hyaluronic acid. The vitamins support the regeneration of the gums, while hyaluronic acid moisturizes, plumps the gums, and counteracts receding.
Maintain regular dental care habits
Continuity is the magic word. Be sure to stick to a consistent dental care routine to prevent gum problems and keep your gums healthy and shiny.
Regular dental visits
Scheduled visits to the dentist allow for early detection of gum problems. Professional dental cleanings and check-ups are important to monitor the condition of the gums.
Healthy eating
A balanced diet contributes to overall oral health. Make sure your plate contains foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, and avoid high sugar or acidic foods, which damage the gums and are not beneficial to your overall physical health.
Quit smoking
Smoking damages the gums and thus promotes gum recession. Quitting smoking or reducing tobacco consumption helps prevent the progression of gum problems and is absolutely recommended regardless.
Stress management
Stress is generally a cause of illness and, unfortunately, can also promote gum disease. Find your method for dealing with stress: Whether it's meditation, yoga, or other activities, it definitely helps reduce your stress levels and benefits your oral health.
Home remedies for gum recession
Basically, we say: Be careful with home remedies, and please don't go it alone. Under certain circumstances, the use of various substances can also cause the condition to worsen instead of improving. With regard to inflamed gums and the urgency of eliminating sources of inflammation, we have listed some home remedies that can potentially provide relief:
Oil pulling
Regular oil pulling with coconut oil or sesame oil can be a way to reduce bacteria in the mouth and support oral health. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence for its effectiveness is limited, but it is certainly not harmful.
Salt water rinses
Gargling with a salt water solution can help relieve gum inflammation and aid the healing process. Rinse with lukewarm salt water twice a day.
Camomile tea
Miracle weapon: chamomile tea. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can easily be used as a mouthwash to reduce gum inflammation. Let the tea steep naturally, cool down, and then rinse your mouth thoroughly with it.
Aloe vera
You definitely can't go wrong with aloe vera gel. It has soothing properties and can help provide relief for irritated and inflamed gums.
Foods rich in vitamin C
A balanced diet, including foods rich in vitamin C, contributes to overall gum health. With citrus fruits, peppers, and broccoli, you are well advised here. In the case of acute symptoms, however, this “home remedy” cannot bring about a quick improvement. Consider these foods an excellent prophylactic.
It is important to emphasize that these home remedies cannot directly treat the causes of receding gums. If gum recession is progressive or severe, it is essential to see a dentist to receive appropriate treatment.
Conclusion on the topic of best toothpaste for gum recession
Receding gum toothpaste definitely plays a supportive role in gum care by providing certain ingredients that help relieve gum inflammation and improve oral health. Anti-inflammatory or antibacterial ingredients in specialty toothpastes help ease symptoms and slow the progression of gum problems.
However, it is important to understand that toothpaste alone cannot completely solve the problem of receding gums. It serves more as a supplement to thorough oral hygiene and regular dental visits. The right toothpaste is part of a broader approach to oral health that also includes flossing, gentle brushing techniques, a balanced diet, regular dental exams, and professional cleanings.
