Gum recession is a common dental issue where the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth surface, exposing more of the tooth or its root. Unfortunately, once gum tissue recedes, it generally does not grow back naturally. However, various treatment options are available to address existing recession and prevent further progression.
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession makes teeth appear longer than usual, often revealing visible tooth roots. This happens when gum tissue pulls away from the tooth surface. Exposed tooth roots are a concern because they lack the protective enamel found on the tooth crown, making them vulnerable. This vulnerability can lead to increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, and a higher risk of decay and infection beneath the gum line. Dental professionals diagnose gum recession during routine examinations by measuring the depth of gum pockets around each tooth with a periodontal probe; healthy pockets measure between 1 and 3 millimeters.
Common Causes of Receding Gums
Aggressive brushing is a frequent contributor to gum recession; using a hard-bristled toothbrush or excessive force can wear away gum tissue and tooth enamel. Periodontal (gum) disease, a bacterial infection, is a primary cause, leading to inflammation and the breakdown of tissues supporting the teeth. Genetic predisposition can play a role, making some individuals more susceptible to thin gum tissue or gum disease regardless of their oral hygiene habits.
Teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, exerts stress on the gums and teeth, resulting in gum recession. Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, irritates gum tissue, restricts blood flow, and contributes to plaque buildup, accelerating gum recession. Misaligned or crowded teeth can create areas difficult to clean, leading to plaque accumulation and subsequent gum inflammation and recession. Inadequate dental care, such as infrequent brushing, flossing, or professional cleanings, allows plaque and tartar to build up, initiating or worsening gum disease.
Addressing Existing Gum Recession
Non-surgical approaches are the first line of treatment for gum recession. Deep cleaning procedures, scaling and root planing, involve removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing tooth roots to encourage gum reattachment. For tooth sensitivity, dentists can apply fluoride varnish or other desensitizing agents, and patients can use desensitizing toothpaste at home. Oral antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses may be prescribed to control bacterial infections associated with gum disease.
When recession is more severe or non-surgical methods are insufficient, surgical options are considered. Gum grafting procedures involve taking a small piece of tissue, typically from the roof of the mouth or a donor, and attaching it to the receded area to cover exposed roots and restore a healthier gum line. The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is a minimally invasive alternative that creates a small pinhole in the gum, allowing specialized instruments to gently reposition the gum tissue over the exposed roots without traditional cutting or sutures. Dental bonding, using tooth-colored composite resin, can be applied to cover exposed tooth roots, improving appearance and reducing sensitivity.
Protecting Gums from Future Recession
Preventing further gum recession involves adopting consistent and effective oral hygiene practices. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, held at a 45-degree angle to the gums, and using gentle, circular motions helps remove plaque without damaging gum tissue. Daily flossing is equally important to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and below the gum line, areas a toothbrush cannot reach. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, every six months, are important for removing hardened plaque (tartar) and detecting early signs of gum issues.
Addressing teeth grinding or clenching, often done unconsciously during sleep, can prevent excessive force on the gums and teeth; a custom-fitted nightguard can help mitigate this issue. Quitting tobacco products is beneficial, as tobacco contributes to gum irritation and recession. Maintaining a balanced diet also supports overall oral health, helping to prevent plaque buildup and gum inflammation.