Your gum might be hiding your tooth (or teeth) because of excessive gum growth, technically called gingival hyperplasia or gingival overgrowth. Several factors can contribute to this condition.
Here's a breakdown of the possible reasons:
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Poor Oral Hygiene:
- Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria. This irritates the gums, causing inflammation (gingivitis). Chronic inflammation can then trigger excessive gum tissue growth, partially covering the teeth.
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Mouth Breathing:
- Constantly breathing through your mouth can dry out the gums. This dryness irritates the gum tissue, potentially leading to inflammation and subsequent overgrowth as the body attempts to protect itself.
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Certain Medications:
- Several medications are known to cause gingival overgrowth as a side effect. These include:
- Antiseizure medications: Phenytoin (Dilantin), commonly used to treat epilepsy.
- Immunosuppressants: Cyclosporine, used to prevent organ rejection after transplants.
- Calcium channel blockers: Nifedipine, amlodipine, verapamil, diltiazem, used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions.
- Several medications are known to cause gingival overgrowth as a side effect. These include:
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Genetics:
- In some cases, there is a genetic predisposition to gingival overgrowth. Some people are simply more likely to develop this condition than others.
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Hormonal Changes:
- Hormonal fluctuations, such as those experienced during pregnancy or puberty, can sometimes lead to increased gum sensitivity and swelling, which in some cases could lead to gingival overgrowth.
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Underlying Medical Conditions:
- Rarely, certain underlying medical conditions, such as leukemia or vitamin deficiencies, can contribute to gingival overgrowth.
If you are experiencing gum overgrowth, it's crucial to consult with your dentist or periodontist. They can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include:
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Professional teeth cleaning, coupled with a strict at-home oral hygiene routine, can often resolve mild cases.
- Medication Adjustment: If a medication is the culprit, your doctor might be able to switch you to an alternative. Always consult with your doctor before stopping or changing any medications.
- Gingivectomy: A surgical procedure to remove excess gum tissue.
- Gingivoplasty: A surgical procedure to reshape the gums.
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
In conclusion, gum hiding your tooth is usually a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed to maintain good oral health. Addressing the underlying cause will prevent the overgrowth from returning.
