Having gums that cover your teeth can be concerning to many people. It can affect the way your smile looks and may even cause discomfort when chewing and speaking. In some cases, it can be a sign of poor oral hygiene or an underlying medical condition. Knowing what could be causing your gums to extend over your teeth is important for understanding how to address the issue. In this article, we will discuss why your gums may be over your teeth, potential causes, and how to treat them.The most common cause of gums over teeth is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. This is caused by plaque buildup that hardens and pushes the gum line away from the teeth. Other causes of gums over teeth can include misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, poor oral hygiene habits, and genetics. Some medications and hormone changes during pregnancy can also contribute to this condition.
Checking if Gums are Over Teeth
Gum recession is a common dental problem that can lead to more severe damage if left untreated. It occurs when the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots and making it more prone to infection and further gum recession. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to check if your gums are over your teeth.
The first step in checking for gum recession is to look in the mirror and examine your gums. Look for any signs of redness, swelling, or tenderness. Also look for any gaps between your teeth and gums that may indicate that the gums have receded from the teeth. If you see any of these signs, contact your dentist right away for further evaluation and treatment.
The next step is to perform a slim test. This involves using a thin piece of floss to gently slide between your teeth. If you feel discomfort or resistance when sliding the floss, this could be an indication that your gums have receded from the teeth. It’s important to note that this test should only be done with supervision from a trained professional such as a dentist or dental hygienist.
Finally, if you notice any sensitivity in your teeth while biting or chewing, this could also be an indication of gum recession. Sensitivity is often caused by exposed tooth roots which can occur when the gums have pulled away from the teeth over time due to periodontal disease or other factors such as grinding or clenching of the jaw during sleep.
Gum recession can cause serious damage if left untreated so it’s important to monitor your oral health regularly and seek treatment as soon as possible if you suspect something may be wrong. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your gums stay healthy and protect yourself from further damage down the line.
Treatment Options for Gums Over Teeth
When the gums become too large and cover too much of the tooth, it can lead to an unattractive smile. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options available to treat this condition. The most common and effective treatments include crown lengthening, gum reshaping, and gingivectomy.
Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth. This can be done to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile or to give a dentist better access for crown placement. It is usually done with a laser which reduces bleeding and recovery time.
Gum reshaping is another procedure that can reduce the amount of gum tissue covering the teeth. It involves gently removing some of the gum tissue from around the teeth with a scalpel or laser to create an even smile line. The results are immediate, and the procedure is typically done in one visit.
A gingivectomy is a more invasive procedure that removes excess gum tissue from around the teeth in order to reshape them. This procedure is very effective in correcting uneven or excessive gums, but it requires more recovery time than other treatments due to its complexity.
No matter which treatment option you choose, it’s important to discuss your goals with your dentist so they can recommend the best option for you. With proper care and regular check-ups, you can enjoy a beautiful smile for years to come!
Brush and Floss Regularly
It is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly to maintain healthy gums. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes, and flossing once a day will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, which can lead to gingivitis. Additionally, using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth that can cause gum disease.
Eat Healthy Foods
It is important to maintain a healthy diet in order to keep your gums healthy. Eating foods high in vitamins A, C, and E can help promote healthy gums. Additionally, avoiding sugary foods and drinks can help reduce the risk of cavities, which can lead to gum disease.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Visiting your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning is one of the best ways to prevent gums from covering teeth. During these visits, your dentist will be able to identify any potential issues with your gums or teeth before they become more serious. Additionally, they may be able to provide recommendations on how to better care for your teeth at home.
Quit Smoking
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of gum disease due to the toxins released from cigarettes that can damage gum tissue. Quitting smoking is one of the best ways to prevent gums from covering teeth as it reduces the risk of developing gum disease or other oral health issues caused by smoking.
Caring for Teeth When Gums are Over Them
It is very important to take proper care of your teeth when the gums are over them, as it can be a sign of gum disease. The first step in caring for your teeth when the gums are over them is to make sure you brush and floss regularly. This will help to remove any plaque or bacteria that may have built up between your teeth and along the gum line. Additionally, you should also use an antibacterial mouthwash to further reduce any bacteria or plaque buildup.
It is also important to visit your dentist on a regular basis. During these visits, your dentist can check for signs of gum disease and provide treatment if necessary. This could include a deep cleaning, scaling, or root planing procedure to remove plaque from below the gum line. Your dentist may also recommend taking antibiotics or using special mouth rinses to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
In addition to regular dental visits, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. This includes brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste, flossing once a day, and using an antibacterial mouthwash daily. It is also important to avoid sugary foods and drinks as well as tobacco products; these substances can increase the risk of gum disease and other dental problems.
Finally, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will help keep your mouth clean by washing away food particles and reducing plaque buildup on your teeth and gums. Additionally, it can help prevent dry mouth which can lead to tooth decay and other dental problems. By following these simple tips, you can keep your teeth healthy even if the gums are over them.
What Foods to Avoid if You Have Gums Over Your Teeth
It is important to be mindful of what foods you eat if you have gums over your teeth, as some food choices can aggravate the condition. Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can contribute to an increase in inflammation, which can cause gums over your teeth to become red, swollen and tender. Foods that are acidic, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes and vinegar-based sauces, can also irritate your gums and teeth. Additionally, any food that is crunchy or difficult to chew may cause additional irritation and discomfort.
It is best to avoid sugary snacks such as candy, cookies and soda. These not only increase inflammation but also promote the growth of bacteria that can worsen gum disease. High-carbohydrate foods like white breads and pastas may also contribute to inflammation. Additionally, processed foods such as canned soups or frozen dinners should be avoided due to their high sodium content which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Instead of processed foods, it is best to choose fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots or celery as snacks throughout the day. Eating these whole fruits and vegetables will provide important vitamins for healthy teeth and gums while helping keep inflammation down. Lean proteins such as chicken or fish are also beneficial for keeping your gums healthy while providing essential nutrients for strong teeth. It is important to make sure that any meat you eat is cooked thoroughly so that it does not cause any irritation of the gums or teeth.
By avoiding certain foods when you have gums over your teeth, you can help reduce inflammation while promoting good dental health overall. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables will help keep your gums healthy while avoiding sugary snacks or processed foods will reduce the risk of decay or gum disease developing further down the line.
Conclusion
Gums that are over the teeth can be caused by a variety of reasons, ranging from gum disease and gingival recession to ill-fitting dentures or braces. It is important to visit your dentist if you suspect you have an issue with your gums, and to practice good oral hygiene every day to keep your gums healthy. In some cases, medication or surgery may be necessary to restore the health of your gums. Regular checkups with your dentist are essential in order to detect any potential problems with your gums before they become serious.
Ultimately, it is important to take care of your gums in order to protect the health of your teeth and mouth as a whole. With proper oral hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist, you can help prevent gum overgrowth and keep your teeth looking their best.