How Meridol Can Help Manage Gum Recession

Gum recession can lead to oral health problems like hypersensitivity and root cavities, and it can also cause self-consciousness and lack of confidence. Fortunately, by understanding the causes and treatment options, gum recession can be halted and managed effectively. Read on to learn how meridol can help.

What is gum recession?

Gum recession refers to the gum tissue pulling away from the teeth. It can make the gums appear shorter, as if they are pulling away from the teeth, which in turn makes the teeth appear longer. A slightly darker band may appear along the edge of the tooth closest to the gum line, signifying exposed root surfaces.

Some degree of gum recession is common with age, particularly if a hard toothbrush or aggressive toothbrushing technique is used. There is also a genetic element for some. Most commonly, however, The Dental Association of South Africa (SADA) says that gum recession is caused by a bacterial infection called periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. 

According to The Oral Hygienists Association of South Africa (OHASA), gum disease affects 90% of South African adults at some point in their lives. In the early stages, the condition is confined to the gum tissue and is known as gingivitis. As it progresses, the infection spreads to the connective tissue and bone underneath the gums. At this stage, it is referred to as periodontitis.   

As bacteria advances under the gum line, the gum tissue starts to detach from the root surface of the tooth and wear away. When this happens, the root surfaces of the teeth that would normally be covered by gum tissue become exposed.

The effects of gum recession

For some, gum recession can make them feel self-conscious about their smile. But the effects of receding gums go far beyond cosmetic concerns. 

The visible crowns of the teeth are covered with a tough substance called enamel to protect against sugars and acids. As the root surfaces of the tooth sit beneath the gums, they do not require the same degree of protection, and are therefore covered with a softer material called cementum. 

If the gums recede and the tooth roots are exposed, cementum can be weakened and eroded very quickly. That leaves the root surfaces much more vulnerable to dental problems like cavities and hypersensitivity. In severe cases, it can also lead to tooth loss.

What can you do about gum recession?

Receding gums should always be examined by a dental professional. Lost gum tissue cannot be recovered, but further loss can be prevented and underlying causes can be treated. 

If gum disease is responsible, the first course of action will usually be a professional cleaning of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the teeth. This may need to be done with a deep-cleaning procedure called root planing and scaling, which involves cleaning the root surfaces deep below the gum line. This will stop gum recession and allow the gums to reattach to the teeth. 

If significant gum tissue has been lost, treatment may require the involvement of a periodontal surgeon for a procedure such as gum grafting. During this procedure, tissue is taken from a healthy part of the mouth (or a donor) and stitched in place of the lost gum tissue. 

Dentists can also help with complications of gum recession, like cavities or sensitivity. A common option is to cover the exposed root to protect it from cavities and/or reduce sensitivity. This can be done with a protective fluoride varnish or dental bonding, where a tooth-coloured material is applied over the root. 

How meridol can help you manage receding gums

No matter the choice of treatment, improvements to the oral hygiene routine will be recommended in order to manage gum recession and gum disease. These typically include: 

• Brushing twice a day, for two minutes each time, with a fluoride toothpaste. 
• Cleaning in between the teeth once a day with dental floss or interdental cleaners. 
• Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash to control bacteria. 
• Using a soft toothbrush with gentle, circular motions to avoid irritating or eroding the gum tissue.

At meridol, we’ve created a range of gum health products to complement professional dental advice and care for tender, receding gums.  

meridol® Toothpaste is a clinically proven gum health toothpaste with amine fluoride and stannous fluoride. These dual-action ingredients help to inactivate plaque bacteria on the teeth and gum line, soothing inflamed gums and allowing them to heal. They also stop new plaque from forming, offering lasting protection against gum disease and tooth decay. 

For best results, brush with the meridol® Soft Toothbrush, featuring microfine bristles to gently clean sensitive gums, and follow with meridol® Mouthwash. The soothing, alcohol-free rinse also contains fluoride for even greater protection against the bacteria that cause gum disease, cavities and bad breath.  

Gum recession may not be reversible, but advice from a dentist, along with meridol®’s expert range of gum health products, can help to address underlying causes like gum disease, manage common symptoms, and prevent any further damage to the gums.