Can Mouthwash Help Prevent Receding Gums?

Worried about receding gums? Read on to learn about how to prevent this condition. Receding gums can put the long-term health of teeth at risk. The good news is that mouthwash, along with other at-home oral care routines and regular cleaning and check-up visits with your dentist, can significantly reduce the risk of periodontal (gum) disease and consequent gum recession.

The importance of preventing receding gums

The following overview discusses how to prevent receding gums through the use of mouthwash, a consistent brushing and flossing schedule, and regular dental cleaning visits.

An overview of receding gums

Receding gums are gums (the soft tissue that supports teeth) that are starting to pull away from the surface of teeth, which is usually caused by periodontal disease. When receding gums worsen, severe symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, swollen and discolored gums, and the loosening and loss of teeth can occur.

How mouthwash can help prevent receding gums

The purpose of mouthwash is to kill bacteria inside that could build up and attack the gums and teeth. This can reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar, as well. Mouthwash can also reach the areas in between teeth and in the gum pockets that are hard to reach when brushing, killing the bacteria in vulnerable areas. By preventing periodontal disease through mouthwash use and other daily oral care measures, you can help reduce the risk of gum recession.

Brushing and flossing for receding gum prevention

Brushing strengthens tooth enamel and removes plaque and bacteria along the gum line and on the gums. Floss removes the plaque and food particles in between teeth and around the gum line, particularly in areas that cannot be adequately reached through brushing. It is important to brush and floss several times per day, along with using mouthwash daily, to help prevent receding gums. With that said, it is important not to brush or floss too vigorously as it can damage the gums and lead to recession over time.

How receding gums can be treated by a dentist

Receding gums that are detected in the early stages can generally be controlled and the recession can be stopped by treating the gum disease through good at-home care and a deep dental cleaning procedure (also known as a scaling and root planing procedure).

A gum graft procedure may be necessary to treat severe gum recession that leaves teeth feeling sensitive or loose. The long-term focus is on prevention through good oral care (which includes the use of mouthwash) and regular cleaning and check-up visits with a dentist to prevent bacteria, plaque, and tartar build-up in the mouth.