Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is a common dental condition where the margin of the gum tissue wears away or pulls back, exposing the underlying root surface of the tooth. Because this movement is often slow, many people do not realize it is happening until the condition is advanced. If left unaddressed, recession can lead to various oral health problems, including an increased risk of decay and sensitivity.
Visual and Physical Indicators of Recession
One of the most noticeable signs is the appearance of “longer” teeth, as the receding gum tissue reveals more of the tooth structure. The exposed root surface, which is normally covered by the gum, may look slightly darker or more yellow than the enamel-covered crown.
Increased tooth sensitivity is a common symptom, particularly when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Since the root surface lacks protective enamel, it is highly susceptible to external stimuli. You may also be able to feel a slight notch or ridge near the gum line.
Localized bleeding or tenderness can accompany recession, and the delicate gum tissue may appear red or swollen. If recession has progressed significantly, you might even notice a feeling of looseness or mobility in the affected tooth.
Common Factors Contributing to Gum Recession
One of the most frequent causes of gum recession is aggressive or incorrect brushing technique. Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush causes mechanical trauma that physically wears away the delicate gum tissue over time, leading to a gradual retreat of the gum margin.
Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection that destroys supporting tissue and bone, is another driver of recession. When plaque and tartar accumulate, the resulting inflammation causes the gum tissue to detach and pull back from the tooth. This process creates pockets between the teeth and gums, allowing further bacterial colonization.
Other factors increase susceptibility, including a genetic predisposition to naturally thin gum tissue. Habits like teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) place excessive force on the teeth and supporting structures. Tobacco use also impairs blood flow to the gums, making the tissue more vulnerable to damage and disease.
Professional Diagnosis and Treatment Paths
If you suspect your gums are receding, a dental professional can provide a definitive diagnosis. The dentist performs a thorough visual examination and uses a specialized periodontal probe to measure the depth of the recession on each tooth. This measurement determines the severity of the condition and is recorded to monitor changes over time.
If periodontitis is a contributing factor, the initial intervention is non-surgical, involving scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and hardened tartar from the tooth roots and below the gum line, eliminating the source of the bacterial infection. The professional may also apply topical antibiotics directly to the affected gum pockets.
For more advanced cases, or when the goal is to cover the exposed root, surgical treatment is necessary. Gum grafting is a predictable procedure performed to restore lost tissue and protect the tooth root.
The most common technique is the connective tissue graft, where tissue is taken from beneath a flap on the roof of the mouth and stitched over the exposed area. Other options include a free gingival graft, which uses tissue directly from the palate to thicken thin gums, or a pedicle graft, which utilizes healthy gum tissue adjacent to the affected tooth.