Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is a common dental condition where gum tissue around the teeth pulls back or wears away. This exposes more of the tooth surface, including the root, which is normally protected by gum tissue. When gums recede, small gaps or “pockets” can form between the teeth and gum line, creating areas where disease-causing bacteria can accumulate. If left unaddressed, this can lead to further oral health complications and affect the smile’s appearance. Approximately 88% of individuals over the age of 65 experience gum recession on at least one tooth.
Understanding the Root Causes
Several factors can contribute to gum recession. Aggressive tooth brushing, where applying excessive force or using a hard-bristled toothbrush, can physically wear down gum tissue over time. This mechanical trauma can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth.
Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection affecting the gums and supporting bone, is a primary cause of gum recession. This inflammatory condition leads to the destruction of gum tissue and bone that hold teeth in place. As the disease progresses, gums can detach from the teeth, forming pockets where more bacteria can thrive.
Genetics also plays a role in an individual’s susceptibility to gum recession. Some people are predisposed to having thinner or more fragile gum tissue, making them more prone to recession regardless of their oral hygiene practices. Studies indicate that up to 30% of the population may have a genetic susceptibility to gum disease, which can lead to recession.
Inadequate oral hygiene, characterized by insufficient brushing and flossing, allows plaque and tartar to build up on teeth. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, hardens into tartar if not removed. This buildup irritates and inflames the gums, leading to gingivitis, which can then progress to periodontitis and subsequent recession.
Other contributing factors include teeth grinding (bruxism), which places undue stress on the gums and supporting structures. Tobacco use can increase plaque production and dry out the mouth, making gums more vulnerable. Misaligned teeth can also contribute by creating areas with inadequate bone coverage or uneven pressure during biting. Hormonal changes, particularly in women during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can make gums more sensitive and susceptible to inflammation and recession.
Everyday Practices for Gum Health
Maintaining optimal gum health at home involves specific daily practices that can prevent or slow the progression of gum recession. Proper brushing technique is fundamental, emphasizing the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush. Aggressive scrubbing with hard bristles or excessive force can damage gums and tooth enamel.
When brushing, position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, allowing the bristles to reach slightly under the gums to disrupt plaque and debris. Use gentle, circular, or short back-and-forth motions, focusing on massaging the gums rather than scrubbing them vigorously. Brushing for at least two minutes, twice a day, ensures thorough cleaning. Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors can help prevent over-brushing.
Daily flossing is equally important, as it removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and below the gum line, areas a toothbrush cannot effectively reach. Gently guide the floss between teeth and curve it into a C-shape against each tooth, moving it up and down to clean the surface. This practice helps prevent the accumulation of bacteria that can lead to gum disease and recession.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also crucial components of gum health. Dentists and hygienists can remove hardened tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated by at-home brushing and flossing. These visits also allow for early detection and intervention for any signs of gum disease, preventing its progression.
Diet and nutrition play a supportive role in overall gum health. A balanced diet contributes to a healthy immune system, which helps the body fight off bacterial infections in the gums. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks can reduce plaque buildup.
Avoiding harmful habits further protects gum health. Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, increases the risk of gum disease and recession. For individuals who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), wearing a nightguard can help alleviate the pressure and protect both teeth and gums from trauma.
Professional Care Options
When at-home practices are not sufficient, or for more advanced cases, dental professionals offer various treatments for receding gums. One common non-surgical procedure is deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing. This involves removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line, and then smoothing the root surfaces to eliminate bacterial toxins and promote reattachment of the gums.
For more significant gum recession, gum graft surgery is often recommended. This procedure involves taking gum tissue from one area of the mouth or using donor tissue, then grafting it to the site of recession to cover exposed roots and restore a healthy gum line. Types include connective tissue grafts (tissue from under a palate flap), free gingival grafts (small tissue piece from palate), and pedicle grafts (tissue rotated from an adjacent area). The goal of these grafts is to cover exposed root surfaces, reduce sensitivity, and improve the appearance of the gums.
Orthodontic treatment can sometimes address gum recession, particularly when misaligned teeth contribute to the problem. By gradually repositioning teeth, orthodontics can correct pressure points and improve the distribution of biting forces, which may alleviate some causes of recession. This approach helps create a more favorable environment for gum health.
Restorative procedures, such as dental bonding or fillings, can also be used to cover exposed tooth roots. A tooth-colored resin material is applied to the exposed root surface, which can reduce sensitivity and improve the aesthetic appearance of the tooth. This treatment offers a less invasive option for mild to moderate recession and helps protect the vulnerable root surface from decay. The appropriate treatment depends on the severity of the recession and its underlying cause, highlighting the importance of a professional dental evaluation.