Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This common dental issue affects the appearance of your smile and can expose your teeth to potential damage and sensitivity. Because it is a gradual process, recognizing its indicators is important for timely intervention.
Signs of Receding Gums
Teeth appearing longer than usual is a noticeable sign of gum recession, as the gum line moves further down, revealing more of the tooth’s surface. This exposure can extend to the tooth roots, which are normally covered by gum tissue. The exposed roots lack the protective enamel of the crown, making them more susceptible to sensitivity.
Increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, is common. This discomfort arises when the dentin, a softer layer beneath the enamel and cementum, becomes exposed. Notches or indentations at the gum line may also be visible.
Changes in tooth color near the gum line can occur due to exposed dentin, which has a different shade than enamel. Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing can also indicate inflammation associated with gum recession. In advanced cases, gum recession can lead to loose teeth as supporting tissue and bone degrade.
Causes and Management of Gum Recession
Aggressive tooth brushing is a common cause of gum recession. Brushing too forcefully or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can physically wear away gum tissue. Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque and tartar buildup, causing gum inflammation (gingivitis) that can progress to severe gum disease (periodontitis) and recession.
Genetics also play a role, as some individuals are predisposed to thinner gum tissue, making them more susceptible to recession. Hormonal changes, particularly in women during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect gum tissue and increase vulnerability. Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, impairs gum tissue healing and promotes plaque buildup, contributing to gum disease and recession.
Other contributing factors include teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), which puts excessive force on teeth and gums, and misaligned teeth or bite problems that create uneven pressure. Oral piercings, especially lip or tongue piercings, can also irritate gum tissue and lead to localized recession. Addressing these underlying causes is a primary step in management.
To manage gum recession, proper brushing technique is essential. This involves gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further damage. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash helps control plaque and bacteria, preventing gum disease progression. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important for monitoring gum health and removing hardened plaque.
Addressing underlying issues is also important. This might involve treating existing gum disease with deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing, using a nightguard for bruxism, or orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth. For severe cases, a dentist may recommend treatments such as dental bonding to cover exposed roots or gum graft surgery, where tissue covers the exposed root surfaces. While gum recession cannot always be reversed, treatment can prevent it from worsening.