Gingivitis, periodontitis, and plaque all cause inflammation in your gums, which causes gingival recession. Your dentist can help you prevent these or treat them before they get worse. Having misaligned or crowded teeth can cause or worsen gum recession and may warrant orthodontic treatment.

Consider purchasing an electric toothbrush, which may reduce plaque more than brushing with a regular toothbrush. Be sure to brush the inside, outside, and tops (chewing surface) of your teeth. Brush your tongue, too.

Tilt the head of your toothbrush at a 45° angle towards your gum line. Use small circular vibratory strokes. Brush with gentle pressure. The bristles of your toothbrush can actually go 1 mm below your gum line to remove plaque that gets stuck there. Do about 20 strokes in one position before moving on to the other surfaces of your teeth. [6] X Research source After doing 20 strokes, do a sweeping motion towards the biting surfaces of your teeth to move the plaque out. Do a back and forth horizontal movement to clean the biting surfaces of your teeth.

Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months, or if the bristles get frayed.

For effective flossing, get an elbow-length string of floss and wrap both ends around your middle fingers. Leave an inch of floss that you can work with. Starting from the back tooth, slide the floss very gently in between your teeth with the help of your index fingers. Do not force the thread to go down, which can cause damage to your gums. Repeat the same procedure for all your teeth, taking care not to damage your gums. If your gums bleed when you floss, you need to be gentler.

While you’re trying to quit, try to use nicotine substitutes such as nicotine patches.

See your dentist to get a night guard that stops you from grinding your teeth while you sleep. Consciously try to unclench your jaw muscles during the day. Stay away from caffeine and alcohol, especially near bedtime. Lower your stress with meditation or a soothing bath before bed.

If you decide to get an oral piercing, make sure that the piercing shop observes excellent sanitary conditions.