Do you feel a sharp sensitivity when you drink cold water? Or have you noticed that your teeth look longer than before? These symptoms are signs of “gum recession,” a concern for many, especially among seniors. Many people mistakenly believe that when gums recede, they must brush so gently that their teeth aren’t cleaned properly. The truth is, you just need to adjust your brushing technique. Berry Dent is here to reveal all the techniques for brushing with receding gums to protect your delicate gums and teeth, along with tips on choosing the right tools, so you can smile confidently without worry.
Quick Check! Are You Brushing Too Hard and Harming Your Gums?
One of the main causes of gum recession is improper and overly aggressive brushing. Check if you have any of these habits:
- Using a Hard-Bristled Toothbrush: Thinking that hard bristles clean better.
- Scrubbing Like You’re Cleaning the Floor: Brushing aggressively, especially in a horizontal (back-and-forth) motion.
- Frayed Bristles Too Soon: Your toothbrush bristles splay out after less than 2-3 months of use.
- Bleeding Gums During Brushing: Thinking it’s normal, but it’s actually a sign that your gums are inflamed or being damaged.
If you have any of these habits, it’s a warning sign that you need to change your brushing method immediately before your gums recede further.
The Correct Brushing Technique for Receding Gums
The Modified Bass Technique is the most recommended brushing method by dentists for receding gums because it is gentle and effectively cleans the gumline. You can easily follow these steps:
- Angle the Brush at 45 Degrees: Place the bristles at a 45-degree angle to the tooth, with the tips of the bristles pointing towards the gumline.
- Short, Gentle Vibrations: Apply gentle pressure and move the brush in small circles or vibrate it gently in place, counting to 5.
- Sweep Down (Upper Teeth) / Sweep Up (Lower Teeth): After the gentle movements, always “sweep” the bristles away from the gumline (down for upper teeth, up for lower teeth).
- Brush All Teeth Thoroughly: Repeat for 2-3 teeth at a time until you have covered all surfaces—outside, inside, and chewing surfaces.
- Brush Your Tongue: Don’t forget to gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
This technique will gently massage the gums and thoroughly remove plaque from the junction between the gums and teeth without harming the delicate gum tissue.
How to Choose a Toothbrush and Toothpaste Specifically for Receding Gums
Having the right tools is key to brushing with receding gums.
- Toothbrush: It must have “Extra Soft” or “Super Soft” bristles. The brush head should be small enough to easily reach the back teeth.
- Toothpaste: Choose a formula with high fluoride (1,500 ppm) to help prevent “root cavities,” a major problem that comes with receding gums. It should also contain ingredients that reduce sensitivity and care for the gums.
- Dental Floss: Essential for cleaning between teeth where bristles can’t reach. It should be used once daily.
- Interdental Brush: An important item for people with receding gums or wide spaces between teeth. In some cases, it can clean between teeth better than floss.
Caring for gums and teeth with recession requires special attention, and choosing the right toothpaste is just as important. We recommend Berry Dent hybrid herbal toothpaste, designed for superior care. It is the perfect blend of nature and science, with the power of 5 berry extracts and natural herbs that help care for gums and reduce inflammation, combined with 1500 ppm fluoride—the maximum amount that provides full-strength protection against root cavities and reduces sensitivity. You get both the protection of fluoride and the fresh breath from nature in one tube. It’s the perfect choice for those who need to be extra gentle with their gums and teeth.