Gum recession is a common dental condition where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. While it can affect multiple teeth, it can also occur on just one tooth, raising specific concerns. Healthy gum tissue plays an important role in oral health.
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the margin of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth surface or its root. This can make the affected tooth appear longer than its neighbors. The gum tissue, also known as gingiva, normally fits snugly around each tooth, acting as a protective barrier. It connects firmly to the jawbone and covers the tooth root, shielding it from external elements.
When gum tissue recedes, it creates spaces, or “pockets,” between the teeth and the gumline, which can become breeding grounds for bacteria. The exposed tooth root, unlike the crown, lacks the hard, protective enamel layer. It is covered by a softer material called cementum, making it more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and damage. Gum recession typically progresses gradually, making it difficult for individuals to notice in its early stages.
Why Gums Recede on a Single Tooth
Gum recession on a single tooth often stems from localized factors. Aggressive tooth brushing is a common cause, particularly when a hard-bristled toothbrush is used with excessive force or incorrect technique. Consistently scrubbing one area too hard can traumatize the gum tissue, leading to recession around that specific tooth.
Misaligned teeth or bite issues can also contribute to isolated recession. When teeth are not properly aligned, they can exert uneven pressure on the gums and jawbone, causing the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth. A tooth that is crooked, tipped, or rotated might experience abnormal forces during chewing or be more prone to aggressive brushing due to its position, leading to localized gum loss.
Orthodontic treatment, while correcting alignment, can sometimes lead to gum recession on a single tooth. The movement of teeth can occasionally result in a thin layer of bone covering the tooth roots, making the gum tissue around those teeth more susceptible to recession. Rapid tooth movement during orthodontic treatment can increase this risk.
Clenching or grinding teeth, known as bruxism, can also impact specific teeth, potentially causing gum recession. The excessive forces generated by grinding can contribute to the development of deep, V-shaped lesions at the gumline, known as abfractions, which are associated with gum loss. Trauma or injury to a single tooth, such as from an accidental toothbrush slip, a sports injury, or an oral piercing, can directly damage the gum tissue and cause it to recede locally. Additionally, some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to thin gum tissue, making a specific tooth more vulnerable to recession even with proper oral hygiene.
When to See a Dentist
One of the earliest symptoms of gum recession is increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. This occurs because the receding gum exposes the tooth’s root, which lacks the protective enamel of the crown. You might also notice that a tooth appears longer than normal.
Another sign is a visible notch or indentation at the gumline. If you experience pain or discomfort near the gumline or notice bleeding gums, particularly around one specific tooth, it could indicate gum recession or an underlying gum issue.
A dentist can diagnose gum recession during a routine examination. They will conduct a visual inspection, looking for exposed tooth roots, changes in gum appearance, and any signs of inflammation. A specialized instrument called a periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums. Healthy gum pockets typically measure between 1 and 3 millimeters, while deeper measurements can indicate gum disease and recession. Dental X-rays may also be taken to assess the underlying bone structure and detect any bone loss, which often accompanies gum recession.
Treatment Options for Receding Gums
While gum recession cannot be reversed naturally, professional treatments can halt its progression and improve the affected area. For early stages, a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing is often recommended. This involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline, allowing the gum tissue to heal.
Dental bonding can be used to cover exposed tooth roots. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to the affected area, which is then shaped and hardened. Bonding helps protect the exposed root, reduces sensitivity, and can improve the aesthetic appearance of the tooth. However, bonding does not correct the underlying cause of recession and may need replacement over time.
For more significant recession, gum grafting procedures are available. A connective tissue graft is a common method, where a small piece of connective tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and stitched to the gum tissue around the exposed tooth root. This aims to cover the exposed root and thicken the existing gum tissue.
Another option is a free gingival graft, which uses a small strip of tissue from the roof of the mouth to increase the amount of gum tissue. This type of graft is often used to reinforce weak gums and prevent further recession, though it may not always fully cover exposed roots. A pedicle graft involves taking gum tissue from an area near the tooth requiring repair, with one edge remaining attached to maintain its blood supply. This flap is then pulled over to cover the exposed root, which can lead to faster healing due to the preserved blood flow. The choice of graft depends on the individual’s specific needs and the extent of recession.
Preventing Future Gum Recession
Preventing further gum recession involves adopting consistent and proper oral hygiene practices. Brushing techniques should be gentle, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and light, circular motions. This approach effectively cleans teeth without causing trauma to the delicate gum tissue.
For individuals who clench or grind their teeth, wearing a nightguard can help protect teeth and gums from excessive forces, reducing the risk of recession. Addressing orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth, can also prevent future recession by redistributing chewing forces and reducing stress on specific gum areas. Orthodontic treatment can help improve tooth positioning and potentially increase gum and bone thickness.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and management of potential issues. These appointments allow dentists to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can contribute to gum disease and recession. Avoiding habits that contribute to recession, such as smoking, using tobacco products, and oral piercings, is also recommended to maintain gum health.