Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back, exposing more of the tooth’s surface or the root underneath. While it can affect the entire mouth, many people first notice it on a single tooth, signaling a localized problem. This exposure leaves the root surface vulnerable and can lead to increased discomfort. The gum tissue will not grow back on its own once it has receded, so timely intervention is necessary to prevent the issue from progressing and causing further oral health complications. Seeking a dental checkup is the first step to identifying the specific cause and protecting the affected tooth.
Localized Causes of Single-Tooth Recession
When recession affects only one tooth, it is typically the result of localized pressure or trauma. The most frequent cause is an incorrect or overly vigorous brushing technique, often called aggressive brushing. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or applying excessive force in a horizontal, scrubbing motion can physically wear away the delicate gum tissue surrounding a single tooth over time. This mechanical abrasion often occurs on the teeth that receive the most direct force during brushing.
Another significant contributor is the tooth’s position within the dental arch. A tooth that is misaligned, crowded, or protrudes slightly may have less supporting bone and gum tissue, making it more susceptible to damage. The uneven stress created by a traumatic bite or teeth grinding (bruxism) can also target the gum tissue. This constant pressure can cause small notches, known as abfraction lesions, to form at the gum line, accelerating recession.
Localized trauma, such as an injury, an aggressive dental procedure, or a piercing near the gum line, can also directly damage the tissue. Furthermore, poorly fitting dental restorations, like crowns with margins that sit too far below the gum line, can irritate the tissue, leading to localized inflammation and subsequent recession.
Immediate Symptoms and Risks
The first sign of recession is often an increase in tooth sensitivity. This occurs because the protective enamel only covers the crown; the exposed root underneath is covered by softer cementum, which wears away quickly to reveal the sensitive inner dentin. Dentin contains microscopic tubules leading to the tooth’s nerve, causing discomfort when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
Visually, the affected tooth will appear noticeably longer than its neighbors because more structure is visible above the gum line. A physical indentation or notch may also be felt where the tissue has worn away. If left untreated, the exposed root surface faces two primary risks: root surface decay and further structural loss.
The root surface is significantly more prone to decay than the enamel-covered crown because it lacks enamel’s hardness. This vulnerability increases the risk of developing a cavity that can quickly progress deep into the tooth. Over time, the continued loss of gum tissue and supporting bone can compromise the stability of the tooth, potentially leading to loosening or shifting.
Professional Treatments for Restoring Gum Tissue
The initial professional step involves a thorough assessment and deep cleaning to ensure the area is free of plaque and tartar buildup. This procedure, known as scaling and root planing, removes deposits from below the gum line and smooths the exposed root surface, helping the gum tissue heal and reducing inflammation. For mild cases with minimal tissue loss but a noticeable notch, a dentist may use composite resin bonding. This material covers the sensitive area, restores the tooth’s contour, and prevents further notching.
For more advanced recession, surgical intervention is typically recommended. The most common approach is soft tissue grafting, which aims to cover the exposed root and regenerate lost gum tissue.
Grafting Techniques
- Connective tissue graft: A small piece of tissue is taken from under a flap on the roof of the mouth and stitched over the recessed area.
- Free gingival graft: Tissue is taken directly from the palate’s surface.
- Allografts: Alternative materials from tissue banks can be used to avoid creating a second surgical site in the patient’s mouth.
- Contemporary techniques: Methods like the Pinhole Surgical Technique or laser-assisted therapy offer less invasive ways to reposition existing gum tissue or stimulate growth with reduced recovery time.
In cases where tooth misalignment is the primary cause, orthodontic treatment may be used to reposition the tooth, reducing pressure on the gum tissue and halting recession.
Preventing Future Recession
Preventing the recurrence of gum recession relies heavily on modifying long-term oral hygiene habits. The most impactful change is adopting a gentle and correct brushing technique. Brushing should involve short, gentle, circular or vertical strokes, rather than aggressive horizontal scrubbing, to clean the teeth without abrading the gum line.
For individuals who struggle with applying too much force, switching to an electric toothbrush equipped with a built-in pressure sensor can be effective. These devices alert the user when they are brushing too hard, preventing mechanical trauma. Routine dental maintenance, including professional cleanings and check-ups, is necessary to catch early signs of inflammation or recession before they worsen.
Addressing underlying mechanical issues is equally important. If teeth grinding is suspected, a custom-fitted nightguard can protect the teeth and gums from excessive forces during sleep. For cases where tooth misalignment contributes to the problem, consulting with an orthodontist can determine if correction is advisable to reduce the uneven strain on the surrounding gum tissue.