Gum recession is a common dental problem that often sneaks up on people slowly. You may notice your teeth look longer or that your gums appear to be shrinking away or pulling away from your teeth, but by the time you realize what’s happening, the damage is often already done. While gum recession may seem purely cosmetic or appearance, it can have other consequences for oral health.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gums around teeth wears away or shrinks back, revealing more of your tooth or the tooth’s root. This creates gaps or “pockets” where harmful bacteria can accumulate, leading to further damage. Over time, if left untreated, gum recession can result in the loss of teeth, as the supporting bone and tissues that hold teeth in place begin to erode. It’s a gradual process, so it may not be immediately noticeable, but there are some telltale signs that can indicate gum recession is happening.
Symptoms of Gum Recession
Some of the most common signs of gum recession include:
Exposed tooth roots: Your teeth may look longer, and you may notice more of your tooth surface showing than before.
Increased sensitivity: If your gums are receding, the exposed roots of your teeth may make them more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
Visible notches: Sometimes, you may see a notch near the gum line, where the gum has pulled away from the tooth.
Bleeding or swollen gums: Gums may become inflamed or bleed easily during brushing or flossing, especially in the early stages of gum disease.
Loose teeth: As gum recession progresses, it can affect the stability of your teeth, making them feel loose or wobbly.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession may be caused by various factors, often in combination. Some of the most common include:
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease): A leading cause of gum recession is periodontal disease, which affects the bone that supports teeth and gum tissues. Over time, if left untreated, the infection causes the gums to shrink or pull away from the teeth, leading to recession. Early-stage gum disease, also known as gingivitis, can usually be treated and reversed, but more advanced stages of periodontitis can result in permanent damage, including gum recession.
Aggressive Brushing: Brushing your teeth too aggressively or hard or using a toothbrush with tough bristles can actually damage your gums. Switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle motions while brushing can help prevent further gum damage.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting your oral care routine will allow dental plaque and dental tartar to build up, progressing to gum disease and, eventually, gum recession.
Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other types of tobacco increases the risk of gingivitis, which can lead to gum recession. Users of tobacco products are likely to have more sticky dental plaque that’s difficult to remove, contributing to gum issues.
Misaligned Teeth or Bite: Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite can put extra pressure on the gums and bone during chewing or grinding. This uneven pressure can cause the gums to recede over time.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Constant teeth grinding or clenching puts excessive force on the teeth and their supporting tissues. This can cause the gums to recede, especially if the grinding goes unaddressed.
Treatment Options for Gum Recession
Fortunately, several effective treatments are available for gum recession.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning treatment, also known as root planing and scaling for mild gum recession. This involves removing dental plaque and tartar buildup from beneath the gum line where toothbrush bristles cannot reach and smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
Gum Graft Surgery: For more advanced cases, gum graft surgery may be necessary to replace lost gum tissue. During this procedure, tissue is taken from another part of your mouth—often the roof of your mouth—and grafted over affected areas to cover the exposed roots and promote gum regeneration.
Desensitizing Agents: If sensitivity is your main concern, your dentist may recommend using desensitizing toothpaste or applying a fluoride varnish to help protect the exposed roots and reduce discomfort.
Orthodontics: If gum recession is caused by misaligned teeth or an uneven bite, orthodontic treatment may help correct the alignment and reduce pressure on the gums.
How to Prevent Gum Recession
While some factors, like genetics, are out of your control, there are several steps you can take to minimize your risk of gum recession:
Maintain a gentle oral care routine: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth gently to avoid damaging your gums. Floss daily to remove dental plaque from areas your toothbrush bristles can’t reach.
Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can catch early signs of gum disease or recession, allowing for early intervention.
Use a night guard if you constantly grind your teeth: If you have bruxism (teeth grinding), wearing a night guard can help protect your teeth and gums from the excessive pressure caused by grinding.
Quit smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor for gum disease and recession. Quitting smoking can improve your oral health and reduce your risk of further damage.
Gum recession is more than just an appearance issue—it can seriously impact your oral health if left untreated. If you notice signs of gum recession, such as longer-looking teeth, sensitivity, or changes in your gums, it’s essential to consult your dentist right away. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage and protect your smile for years to come. Contact us to schedule your dental visit today.