Gum recession, the process where gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, can be a source of anxiety. This gradual movement exposes more of the tooth structure, which can lead to increased sensitivity and vulnerability. Recognizing the signs of this common dental condition is the first step toward protecting your long-term oral health. Its loss should be addressed promptly by a dental professional.
Visual Signs of Gum Recession
One of the most noticeable indicators of recession is the appearance that teeth look longer than they did previously. This is not a change in the tooth itself, but rather the result of the gum tissue pulling back and exposing more of the underlying surface. When the gum line retreats, the tooth root, which is normally covered, becomes visible.
The newly exposed root surface often looks darker or more yellow than the white enamel crown. In some instances, you may be able to see or feel a distinct indentation, or a small notch, right at the gum line where the tissue has worn away. This physical groove indicates that the soft tissue seal around the tooth has been compromised.
A change in oral sensation is a frequent companion to receding gums, particularly heightened sensitivity to temperature. The exposed root surfaces lack the hard, protective enamel layer found on the crown, making them highly susceptible to discomfort from hot, cold, or even sweet foods and drinks. This sensitivity occurs because the dentin tubules, which connect to the tooth’s nerve, are no longer insulated.
Bleeding or swollen gums can also suggest early-stage recession. Healthy gum tissue is usually firm and pink, so any persistent redness, puffiness, or bleeding during routine brushing or flossing should be examined. These changes often signal the presence of periodontal disease, a common factor that precedes tissue loss.
Common Causes of Recession
Recession is often the result of several factors, ranging from controllable habits to genetic predispositions. The most common controllable cause is an aggressive or incorrect brushing technique. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or scrubbing horizontally with excessive force can physically wear away the delicate gum tissue over time.
A major biological contributor is periodontal disease, an infection of the gums caused by bacterial plaque buildup. If plaque hardens into tartar, it creates an irritant below the gum line that causes chronic inflammation and eventually destroys the supporting bone and tissue. This ongoing infection causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that collect more bacteria.
Certain individuals are more susceptible to tissue loss due to factors beyond their control, such as a genetic predisposition for thin gum tissue. Even with meticulous oral hygiene, those with naturally thin tissues may be more prone to recession than others. Other mechanical forces, such as teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), can also place excessive pressure on the gum tissues and bone.
Poorly aligned teeth can similarly contribute, as uneven forces during chewing may stress the soft tissues around certain teeth. Additionally, tobacco use is known to weaken the gum tissue and reduce blood flow, making the gums more vulnerable to both infection and recession.
Action Steps and Professional Treatment
The first step upon noticing any signs of recession is to schedule a consultation with a dentist or a periodontist for a definitive diagnosis. A professional can accurately measure the extent of the recession and determine the underlying cause to create a targeted treatment plan. Ignoring the issue allows the exposed root to become increasingly vulnerable to decay and further bone loss.
Modifying your oral hygiene routine is usually the immediate action recommended to halt further damage. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and adopt a gentle, circular brushing motion, focusing on the area where the tooth meets the gum, rather than aggressive scrubbing. Daily flossing is also necessary to prevent plaque from accumulating along the gum line, which feeds the underlying inflammation.
If the recession is caused by factors like nighttime grinding, a custom-fitted mouthguard can be fabricated to protect the teeth and surrounding tissues from damaging forces. For mild cases where inflammation is the primary factor, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is performed. This non-surgical treatment removes built-up plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surface, allowing the gum tissue a chance to reattach.
For established recession, surgical intervention is often necessary to restore the lost tissue. The most common approach is a gum graft, where a periodontist uses tissue taken from the roof of the mouth or a donor source to cover the exposed root area. Techniques like the connective tissue graft are highly effective at providing new tissue and protecting the tooth from further harm.
Other methods, such as the Pinhole Surgical Technique, involve making a small hole in the existing gum tissue and gently repositioning it to cover the recession without the need for a large graft. Additionally, desensitizing agents, like professional fluoride varnish applications, can be applied to the exposed root to reduce the sensitivity that often accompanies this condition.