Gum recession is a common dental issue where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root surface. This process can lead to visible changes in the smile, making teeth appear longer than usual. While often gradual, gum recession can contribute to various oral health concerns, including increased tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of decay on the exposed root surfaces. This article will explore the underlying causes of gum recession and detail the professional treatments and at-home strategies available to address and prevent its progression.
Understanding Gum Recession
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls back from teeth, exposing more of the tooth or its root surface. This exposes the tooth root, creating small gaps or “pockets” that can harbor bacteria. Untreated, this can damage supporting bone and tissue, potentially leading to tooth instability or loss. Though common, especially in adults over 40, its gradual progression means it often goes unnoticed until symptoms like tooth sensitivity or visibly longer teeth appear.
Several factors contribute to gum recession. Aggressive brushing, particularly with a hard-bristled toothbrush, can wear away gum tissue. Periodontal diseases, bacterial gum infections, are a primary cause, destroying gum tissue and supporting bone. Genetics also play a role, as some individuals are more susceptible to gum disease or have naturally thinner gum tissue.
Other factors include tobacco use, which increases plaque and tartar, damaging gum tissue and hindering healing. Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) exerts excessive force on teeth and gums, potentially causing recession. Misaligned teeth or an uneven bite can also place undue pressure on gums, causing them to pull away. Hormonal changes, especially in women, can influence gum health and inflammation, contributing to recession.
Professional Treatment Options
Professional intervention is often needed to address gum recession. Non-surgical approaches are considered for less severe cases or to manage underlying causes. Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning, is a common non-surgical treatment for recession linked to plaque and tartar. This procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, smoothing root surfaces to deter bacterial reattachment.
For minor exposed roots, dental bonding with tooth-colored composite resin can cover the area. This improves aesthetics and reduces sensitivity by covering dentin tubules. If misaligned teeth contribute to recession, orthodontic treatment (braces or clear aligners) can reposition them. Correcting alignment alleviates pressure on gum tissues, potentially aiding recovery or preventing further recession.
For extensive recession or significant issues, surgical procedures like gum grafting are often recommended. Gum grafting transplants healthy tissue to receded areas to cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and prevent bone loss. Several types of gum grafts exist. A connective tissue graft, the most common, takes tissue from beneath a flap on the roof of the mouth and attaches it to the site.
A free gingival graft takes tissue directly from the roof of the mouth and attaches it to the area. A pedicle graft uses adjacent gum tissue, pulling it over the exposed root; this is feasible only with sufficient nearby healthy gum. These procedures aim to restore a healthy gum line, protect tooth roots, and improve smile appearance.
At-Home Care and Prevention
Consistent at-home care is crucial for healthy gums and preventing further recession. Proper brushing technique is fundamental, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding aggressive scrubbing. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, using gentle, small circular motions to clean effectively without trauma. Forceful brushing wears down gum tissue and tooth enamel, exacerbating recession.
Daily flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush cannot easily reach. It prevents bacterial buildup leading to gum inflammation and periodontal disease, major contributors to recession. Flossing should be done gently to avoid gum trauma.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and prevention of gum issues. Dentists identify early gum disease and remove hardened plaque (tartar) that at-home care cannot, preventing progression. These visits also offer personalized oral hygiene advice.
Lifestyle choices significantly impact gum health. Quitting tobacco is recommended, as it damages gum tissue, increases plaque, and impairs healing. A balanced diet supports healthy gum tissue and overall oral health. For those who grind or clench teeth (bruxism), a custom-fitted night guard protects teeth and gums from excessive forces, reducing recession risk. Addressing bruxism proactively prevents stress on gum tissues.