new user- more gum questions

[tkn]

Hey everyone,
I have been reading this forum for a while now and this is my first post

I am trying to make the switch from smoking to snus. I have dabbled in snus for ages but never fully stopped smoking.

Here is my question
My gums have receded about 3 mm in the last few years. Last week I stopped smoking for about 5 days and was only on the snus (general white and sometimes general portion)

Then I had a few more days of smoking again, checked my gums and I noticed they have receded ever so slightly on the opposite side to my snus side.

Is this caused bu the smoking or the snus or both? Maybe I should get gum surgery if it continues but it sounds expensive and painful!

any ideas?

[KarlvB]

First of all I'd guess neither was responsible. Gum recession is usually far more gradual, which is why some people only notice it when it is pointed out to them. If your gums did recede that much (and on the opposite side to where you place the snus) then it is most likely not the snus, but something else.

Gum recession can be caused by a number of factors. One of them (and actually a leading cause) is brushing too hard - especially if you brush using the "sawing" method rather than softer circular movements.

I'd suggest you should visit a dentist in the first instance to check if the recession is not caused by an underlying problem (gingivitis etc). Secondly switch to an electric toothbrush - preferably a Sonicare - as this offers the best clean with the least amount of abrasion. Also switch to a non-alcohol based mouthwash, floss regularly and in general take good care of your oral hygiene.

I've been using snus for nearly two years now (lös and portion) and have not seen any recession. While not everyone is the same I attribute this to good oral health rather than anything else.

But that is just my opinion.

[tom502]

It's also normal with aging, from what I have read. I have some, but I'm 42 too.

[beja]

Perhaps you are brushing more vigorously than you usually do since you've started using snus. I think sometimes people are concerned about snus staining their teeth and brush harder than normal in their snus spots. A good idea regardless is to rotate where you place the snus each time.

[tkn]

i reckon it's the smoking.
Dont think it is age, I am 26.

will make a appointment and see what the dentist says.