Gum recession on a single tooth is a common dental issue. It occurs when gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, gradually exposing more of its surface or root. It often goes unnoticed until advanced. Understanding gum recession and its management options can help individuals address this condition.
Understanding Gum Recession
Gum recession makes a tooth appear longer as the gum line moves away from its original position, exposing the root surface. Exposed roots lack the protective enamel of the tooth crown, making them vulnerable. This often leads to increased tooth sensitivity, causing discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods. Beyond sensitivity, exposed roots are also more susceptible to decay and erosion because the root surface, composed of cementum, is softer than enamel. If unaddressed, gum recession can lead to bone loss, tooth mobility, and tooth loss.
Factors Contributing to Recession
Aggressive Brushing and Periodontal Disease
One common cause is aggressive tooth brushing, where using too much force or a hard-bristled toothbrush can gradually wear away delicate gum tissue. This repeated trauma can lead to recession over time. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gums, is another significant contributor. This disease causes inflammation and can destroy the gum tissue and underlying bone that support the teeth, leading to gum recession. While it can be widespread, infection might target specific areas more aggressively, resulting in localized recession.
Other Contributing Factors
Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as some individuals may be more susceptible to gum recession or gum disease due to inherited factors like thinner gum tissue or certain immune responses. Bruxism, or habitual teeth grinding and clenching, can exert excessive force on teeth and gums, contributing to recession. This constant pressure can lead to inflammation and cause the gums to pull away. Misaligned teeth or bite problems can also create uneven pressure on certain teeth, causing the gum tissue around those teeth to recede. Furthermore, tobacco use significantly increases the risk of gum disease and can directly contribute to gum recession by impacting gum tissue health and promoting tartar buildup. Direct trauma or injury to the gum area, such as from an accident, an oral piercing, or even aggressive dental procedures, can also cause localized gum recession.
Addressing Gum Recession
Once gum recession occurs, professional dental interventions are often necessary, with the approach depending on severity and cause. A common non-surgical treatment is deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the root surfaces, which helps reduce inflammation and allows gum tissue to reattach more firmly. For mild to moderate recession, dental bonding might be an option. This involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to cover the exposed root surface, which can help reduce sensitivity and improve the tooth’s appearance.
Surgical and Orthodontic Options
When there is significant gum tissue loss, gum graft surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves taking healthy gum tissue from another area of the mouth or using donor tissue, and attaching it to the area of recession to cover exposed roots and rebuild the gum line. Different techniques include:
Connective tissue grafts
Free gingival grafts
Pedicle grafts
In cases where misaligned teeth are a primary cause of recession, orthodontic treatment may be recommended to gradually realign the teeth and reduce uneven pressure on the gums.
Strategies for Prevention and Management
Preventing further gum recession and managing existing conditions involves adopting specific at-home oral care practices and lifestyle adjustments. Proper brushing technique is key: use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle, circular, or angled motions at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and removing plaque and tartar.
Lifestyle and Oral Hygiene Adjustments
Maintain good daily oral hygiene, including daily flossing to remove plaque and food particles, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacterial load. If bruxism is a factor, a custom-fitted nightguard can protect teeth and gums. Quitting tobacco products is beneficial, as tobacco weakens gum tissue and increases gum disease susceptibility. Limiting acidic foods and drinks helps prevent enamel erosion and root exposure. For temporary sensitivity relief, use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth.