Gum recession is a common dental issue where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back or wears away. This exposes more of the tooth, or even its root. It can affect one tooth or several teeth, and its progression is often gradual, making it less noticeable in its early stages.
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue encircling the teeth moves away from its normal position, exposing the underlying tooth root surface. This makes teeth appear longer than usual. The root surface lacks the protective enamel layer, making it more vulnerable.
Dental professionals measure gum recession in millimeters from the cementoenamel junction to the gum line. This helps determine severity and progression. Significant recession indicates a need for attention.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
One frequent cause of gum recession is aggressive tooth brushing, particularly with a hard-bristled toothbrush or an incorrect brushing technique. This mechanical force can erode delicate gum tissue and tooth structure.
Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection that destroys gum tissue and the bone supporting the teeth, is another significant contributor. Inflammation and infection cause the gums to detach from the teeth, leading to pocket formation and eventual recession. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as some individuals may naturally have thinner gum tissue or bone structure, making them more susceptible.
Other factors include poor dental hygiene, which allows plaque and tartar buildup to irritate the gums, and tobacco use, which compromises gum health and blood flow. Misaligned teeth or a history of orthodontic treatment can also put undue stress on gum tissues, while teeth grinding or clenching can exert excessive forces that contribute to gum tissue loss.
How to Tell If Your Gum Recession Is Too Much
Determining if gum recession has become problematic involves recognizing specific signs and symptoms. A primary indicator is increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. This occurs because the exposed root surface contains tiny tubules leading to the tooth’s nerve, making it more reactive to temperature changes.
Changes in tooth color near the gum line, where the root is a slightly different shade than the crown, can also signal recession. Sometimes, a distinct notch or indentation can form at the gum line, indicating where the gum tissue has pulled away from the tooth.
As recession progresses, the exposed root becomes more susceptible to root decay, as it is softer and less mineralized than enamel. This can lead to dark spots or cavities forming near the gum line. Changes in the appearance of your smile, such as gaps between teeth becoming more prominent, can also be noticeable. Any of these signs suggest that the recession warrants a professional dental evaluation.
Treatments and Management for Gum Recession
Managing gum recession often begins with addressing its underlying causes. For instance, individuals with aggressive brushing habits may need to adopt a softer toothbrush and modify their technique to prevent further tissue loss. Desensitizing agents, applied topically or through special toothpastes, can help alleviate tooth sensitivity associated with exposed roots.
For those who grind or clench their teeth, a custom nightguard can protect both the teeth and gum tissues from excessive forces. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can exacerbate gum inflammation and recession.
When recession is more advanced or causes significant issues, surgical options may be considered. Gum grafting procedures involve taking tissue from another area of the mouth, such as the palate, or using donor tissue, to cover the exposed root surface. These procedures aim to restore the gum line, reduce sensitivity, and protect the tooth root. A dental professional can assess the extent of recession and recommend the most appropriate management or treatment plan.