Gum recession occurs when the margin of the gum tissue wears away or pulls back, exposing the underlying root surfaces. This creates small spaces or “pockets” between the teeth and the gum line, which can harbor disease-causing bacteria. The most apparent symptom is increased tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods. Visually, the teeth may also appear longer than normal due to the root exposure.
The Role of Inherited Factors
Genetics do not directly cause gum recession but create a significant predisposition for it. Inherited anatomical traits determine the resilience of a person’s gum tissue and its underlying bone structure. For example, individuals may inherit a naturally thin gingival biotype, meaning the gum tissue is delicate and less dense, making it more susceptible to damage from external forces.
The shape and thickness of the alveolar bone, which supports the teeth, are also genetically determined. Thin bone surrounding the tooth root often results in thin, fragile gum tissue that offers less protection against trauma or inflammation. Research suggests that approximately 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to periodontal disease, a major precursor to recession. While genetic factors set the stage, the actual recession is typically triggered by acquired, environmental influences.
Primary Acquired Causes
Once a genetic predisposition is present, external factors can accelerate the loss of gum tissue. One common acquired cause is mechanical trauma from aggressive tooth brushing. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or applying excessive force in a horizontal scrubbing motion physically wears away the delicate gum margin over time, exposing the root surface.
Uncontrolled periodontal disease is a leading biological cause of recession. Poor oral hygiene allows plaque to accumulate and harden into calculus (tartar), irritating the gums and causing gingivitis. If this inflammation progresses to periodontitis, the bacterial infection destroys the supporting ligaments and bone structure. This bone loss causes the gums to detach and pull back from the teeth.
Other factors place undue stress on periodontal tissues. Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) exerts excessive pressure, accelerating tissue breakdown. Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can also place uneven forces on the gums, leading to recession in stressed areas. Additionally, tobacco use significantly compromises gum health by reducing blood flow and promoting plaque adherence, hindering the tissue’s ability to heal.
Daily Prevention and Protective Measures
Controlling the acquired causes of gum recession requires consistent daily habits, especially for those with a genetic predisposition. The most impactful change involves modifying oral hygiene technique. Switching to a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush is recommended, using gentle, circular or vertical sweeping motions instead of harsh horizontal scrubbing. Brushing should be performed at least twice daily for two minutes to effectively remove plaque without damaging soft tissues.
Daily flossing is important for removing plaque and debris from between the teeth and beneath the gumline. Use a gentle, curving motion around the tooth, carefully avoiding snapping the floss into the gums, which can cause trauma. Individuals who clench or grind their teeth, particularly during sleep, should use a custom-fitted night guard to cushion forces and protect the surrounding bone from excessive mechanical stress.
Maintaining a healthy diet also supports gum tissue resilience. Foods rich in Vitamin C help strengthen connective tissues, while calcium supports jawbone density. Staying hydrated stimulates saliva production, which neutralizes harmful acids and washes away bacteria. Regular check-ups allow for the early detection and management of inflammation or recession before it becomes severe.
Professional Treatment Options
Once gum tissue has receded, it does not naturally regenerate, requiring professional intervention to stop progression and restore lost tissue. For recession driven by periodontal disease, a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing is often the first step. This non-surgical treatment removes hardened plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, smoothing the tooth roots to allow the gums to reattach more firmly.
Advanced Treatment Options
When recession is advanced, exposing a significant portion of the root, surgical procedures are typically recommended to cover the vulnerable area.
- Gum grafting is the most common surgical treatment, involving the transplantation of soft tissue to the site of recession. A periodontist secures tissue (either harvested from the patient’s mouth or sterilized donor tissue) over the exposed root to restore the gumline.
- Alternative techniques, such as the Pinhole Surgical Technique, offer a minimally invasive method where existing gum tissue is gently loosened and repositioned to cover the recession without large excisions or sutures.
- For recession caused by misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment may be used to gradually move the teeth into a more favorable position, distributing chewing forces evenly and reducing stress on the gum tissue.
- In mild cases, a tooth-colored composite resin can be applied through dental bonding to camouflage the exposed root surface, reducing sensitivity and improving aesthetics.