Gum recession, or gingival recession, is the process where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth surface and sometimes the root below. While this exposed tissue cannot naturally grow back on its own, its progression can be halted through changes in daily habits. For areas where the recession is significant, professional treatments are available to restore the gumline, protect the exposed roots, and prevent further damage. Addressing this condition is important because exposed roots are vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and eventual supporting bone loss.
Identifying the Root Causes of Gum Recession
Gum recession rarely has a single cause, often resulting from a combination of mechanical wear and biological factors. One of the most common culprits is aggressive or incorrect brushing, which causes physical trauma to the gum tissue. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or a vigorous horizontal scrubbing motion physically wears away the gum margin, a process known as abrasion.
Biological causes center largely on periodontal disease, which includes gingivitis and periodontitis. This is a bacterial infection where plaque and tartar buildup trigger inflammation, leading to the destruction of the supporting bone and tissue. As the underlying bone structure is lost, the gum tissue follows, creating pockets where harmful bacteria can accumulate.
Other factors include a genetic predisposition, as some individuals naturally have thinner gum tissue, making them more susceptible to recession. Misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite can also exert uneven force on specific teeth, stressing the gum and bone structures. Furthermore, habits like tobacco use increase plaque and are associated with a higher risk of gum disease and subsequent recession.
Essential At-Home Techniques for Prevention
The most effective way to stop the progression of gum recession is to correct your daily oral hygiene routine. Start by replacing any medium or hard-bristled toothbrush with a soft-bristled version, or utilizing an electric toothbrush equipped with a pressure sensor. The goal is to shift the action from scrubbing to a gentle, massaging motion to disrupt plaque without damaging the gums.
Proper technique involves holding the brush bristles at a 45-degree angle directed toward the gumline. This angle allows the soft bristles to gently clean beneath the gum margin where plaque accumulates, using small circular or very short back-and-forth strokes. Apply only light pressure, aiming for two minutes of cleaning time to ensure all surfaces are covered thoroughly.
Interdental cleaning remains important, meaning flossing daily or using interdental brushes or water flossers to remove plaque from between teeth. If teeth clenching or grinding (bruxism) is contributing to pressure on your teeth and gums, a custom-fitted nightguard can absorb the force and reduce trauma. Reducing the consumption of highly acidic foods and drinks helps protect exposed tooth roots and the enamel from erosion.
Professional Treatments to Restore Gum Tissue
Once gum recession has exposed the tooth root, intervention by a dental specialist is required to restore the lost tissue and protect the tooth structure. For cases caused by periodontal disease, the first step is often Scaling and Root Planing (SRP), a deep cleaning procedure. This process involves removing hardened tartar and bacterial toxins from below the gumline and smoothing the exposed root surfaces to encourage tissue reattachment.
If the recession is advanced and requires covering the exposed root, various surgical gum grafting procedures are available.
Connective Tissue Graft
The Connective Tissue Graft is the most common technique, where tissue is harvested from beneath a flap on the roof of the mouth and stitched over the exposed area.
Free Gingival Graft
A Free Gingival Graft is similar but uses a small piece of tissue taken directly from the palate surface. This is often employed when the goal is to increase the thickness of naturally thin gums.
Pedicle Graft
The Pedicle Graft involves creating a flap of existing gum tissue adjacent to the recession site and stretching it over the exposed root. Because this flap remains attached at one side, it retains its blood supply, which can facilitate quicker healing.
Pinhole Surgical Technique
A newer, less invasive option is the Pinhole Surgical Technique. This involves making a small opening in the gum, using specialized instruments to gently reposition the existing gum tissue to cover the root, and stabilizing it with collagen strips, all without the need for traditional sutures or grafts from the palate.