Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls back or wears away, exposing the root surface of the tooth. Improper brushing technique is recognized as a leading mechanical cause of this tissue loss. This form of recession is a direct physical consequence of how force is applied to the delicate tissues, and it is not related to gum disease. Adopting the correct habits can prevent this irreversible condition from starting or progressing.
How Aggressive Brushing Causes Gum Recession
The physical loss of gum tissue from brushing is primarily a result of abrasion, which is the mechanical wear caused by foreign objects rubbing against the surface. This happens when excessive force is combined with improper brushing tools and motions. The most damaging technique involves a vigorous, long, horizontal “scrubbing” motion applied across the gum line.
When a person brushes with too much pressure, especially using a medium or hard-bristled toothbrush, the stiff filaments physically wear away the soft gum tissue over time. Many manual toothbrushes and even some powered brushes lack a mechanism to alert the user to this excessive pressure.
The toothpaste itself can also play a role in this abrasive process. Toothpastes contain abrasive particles to help scrub away plaque and surface stains, and this abrasiveness is measured on a scale called Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA). Using a highly abrasive toothpaste, particularly in combination with hard bristles and heavy pressure, accelerates the wear on both the gum tissue and the underlying tooth structure. The American Dental Association recommends using toothpastes with an RDA value under 250 to mitigate the risk of excessive wear.
Proper Technique for Protecting Gum Tissue
Preventing brushing-induced recession begins with selecting the correct tools and changing the mechanical action. Always use a soft or extra-soft bristled toothbrush, as the gentler filaments are effective at cleaning without causing physical trauma to the gums. If you choose a powered toothbrush, look for models that include a pressure sensor, which automatically alerts you when too much force is being applied.
The most widely recommended approach for protecting the gum line while effectively removing plaque is the Modified Bass technique. This involves placing the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line, allowing the bristles to gently reach into the sulcus, which is the small pocket between the tooth and the gum. Instead of a hard back-and-forth scrub, use a gentle, short, circular, or vibratory motion to dislodge plaque.
Pressure control is fundamental to this technique. A good way to gauge your force is to hold the brush with just your fingertips. If the bristles on your brush begin to splay outward after only a few weeks of use, it is a clear sign that you are brushing too hard. Total brushing time should be maintained at two minutes to ensure all surfaces are cleaned without causing damage from over-brushing.
Managing Existing Brushing-Induced Recession
Once gum recession occurs, the tissue does not grow back naturally, but several steps can be taken to manage the condition and prevent further loss. The most common immediate consequence of recession is increased root sensitivity, which occurs because the protective enamel ends at the gum line, exposing the softer cementum and underlying dentin. Visible root exposure also becomes noticeable, often appearing as wedge-shaped defects at the tooth’s neck, making the teeth look longer.
If you notice any of these symptoms, the first action should be to consult with a dentist or dental hygienist to confirm the cause and establish a prevention plan.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For mild cases, non-surgical treatments can address the sensitivity and exposed areas. These include the application of desensitizing agents, fluoride varnishes, or dental bonding, where a tooth-colored composite resin is used to camouflage the exposed root surface.
Surgical Treatments
In more severe instances where a significant amount of root is exposed, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedure is a gum graft, where a periodontist takes tissue from another part of the mouth or uses a donor material to cover the exposed root. Adopting a soft-bristled brush and the correct technique is the most important step in halting the progression of brushing-induced gum loss.