Receding Gums: Causes, Treatments, and How to Prevent It

Gum recession is a common dental condition that occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. While it may start subtly, untreated gum recession can progress and potentially result in tooth loss.

Many people are unaware they have receding gums because the changes happen gradually. Early recognition and treatment are critical to managing the condition and preventing further damage. At RVA Periodontics, we aim to educate our patients about gum recession so they can make informed decisions about their oral health and take proactive steps to protect their smile.

Common Causes of Gum Recession

There is no single cause of gum recession. Instead, it usually results from a combination of factors, including:

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is the leading cause of gum recession. Bacterial infections that affect the gum tissues cause inflammation and destroy the supporting bone and soft tissue. As the disease progresses, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth.

Aggressive Tooth Brushing

Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and damage the delicate gum tissue. This mechanical trauma can cause gums to recede over time, especially along the front teeth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Neglecting to brush and floss regularly allows plaque to build up and harden into tartar. This contributes to gum inflammation and infection, both of which accelerate gum recession.

Genetics

Some people are more genetically predisposed to gum recession. Even with good oral hygiene habits, individuals with thinner or more delicate gum tissue may still experience this condition.

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to recession.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Chronic bruxism (teeth grinding) places excessive pressure on the teeth and gums. Over time, this can contribute to gum recession, especially when combined with other risk factors.

Misaligned Teeth or Bite

When teeth do not come together evenly, excess force is placed on certain teeth and surrounding gum tissue, which can cause recession.

Tobacco Use

Smoking and chewing tobacco are significant risk factors. They not only contribute to gum disease but also impair healing, making the gums more susceptible to damage and recession.

Body Piercings

Oral jewelry, such as lip or tongue piercings, can rub against the gums and wear away gum tissue over time, leading to localized recession.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Recession

Because gum recession progresses slowly, it may go unnoticed until more advanced stages. Some signs to look out for include:

• Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks

• Teeth that appear longer than normal

• Visible roots of the teeth

• Notching at the gum line

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

• Loose teeth or changes in bite

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation and treatment promptly.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

In cases where gum recession is caught early and the damage is minimal, non-surgical options may be effective in halting progression and preserving gum health. These include:

Scaling and Root Planing

This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to reattach. It’s often the first line of treatment for mild gum recession due to periodontal disease.

Desensitizing Agents or Bonding

For patients experiencing sensitivity due to exposed tooth roots, desensitizing agents or dental bonding can be used to cover the exposed area and reduce discomfort.

Antibiotic Therapy

Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the gums.

Orthodontic Treatment

In some cases, correcting misaligned teeth with braces or clear aligners can help redistribute biting forces more evenly, which may reduce gum recession caused by abnormal pressure.

Soft Tissue Grafts as a Preventative Measure

Sometimes, patients with genetically thin gum tissue may benefit from a gum graft even before noticeable recession occurs. This preemptive treatment can reinforce the gumline and help prevent future recession.

Surgical Treatment Options

When gum recession is more advanced, or if non-surgical methods are not effective, surgical treatment may be necessary to repair the damage and restore gum health.

Gum Grafting

This is the most common surgical procedure to treat gum recession. A periodontist removes tissue from another area of the mouth (often the palate) or uses donor tissue and attaches it to the affected site. This helps cover exposed roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve appearance.

There are several types of gum grafts, including:

• Connective Tissue Grafts

• Free Gingival Grafts

• Pedicle Grafts

The choice of graft depends on the severity and location of the recession, as well as the patient's overall oral health.

Pinhole Surgical Technique

This minimally invasive technique involves creating a small hole in the gum tissue through which special instruments are used to gently reposition the gums over the exposed roots. No sutures are needed, and recovery is typically quicker.

Regenerative Procedures

If the bone supporting the teeth has been destroyed due to gum disease, regenerative procedures may be performed in conjunction with a gum graft. This might include applying a membrane, tissue-stimulating proteins, or bone graft materials to encourage the body's natural ability to regenerate lost bone and tissue.

Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)

When deep pockets have formed due to advanced gum disease, flap surgery may be used to lift the gums, remove bacteria and tartar, and then reposition the gums to fit more snugly around the tooth.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from gum recession treatment depends on the method used and the individual’s healing capacity. Following your periodontist’s instructions closely is essential to ensure optimal results. Typical aftercare recommendations include:

• Eating soft foods for several days

• Avoiding brushing or flossing the surgical area until instructed

• Using a prescribed mouth rinse to keep the area clean

• Managing discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication

• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing

With proper care, surgical treatments have high success rates and can greatly improve both the appearance and health of your gums.

How to Prevent Gum Recession

The best way to deal with gum recession is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Practicing good oral hygiene and making a few lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk.

Use Proper Brushing Technique

Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush and proper technique. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to the gums and use short, circular motions rather than harsh back-and-forth scrubbing.

Floss Daily

Flossing helps remove plaque from between the teeth and under the gumline, areas a toothbrush can’t reach.

Visit Your Dentist and Periodontist Regularly

Routine dental cleanings and exams are vital to catch early signs of gum disease or recession. If you’re at higher risk, seeing a periodontist for specialized care may be beneficial.

Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco products significantly increase your risk of gum disease and slow down healing. Quitting will benefit not just your gums, but your entire oral and overall health.

Manage Bruxism

If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can help reduce pressure on your teeth and gums.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports healthy gum tissue. Vitamin C, in particular, plays a key role in maintaining strong connective tissue.

Address Dental Issues Promptly

Don’t ignore signs of dental problems. Early treatment of cavities, misaligned teeth, or gum inflammation can prevent more serious issues like recession.

Regular Professional Cleanings

Even with excellent home care, plaque and tartar can accumulate over time. Professional cleanings help keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of infection and recession.

Gum recession can be a concerning condition, but it is manageable and, in many cases, preventable. Understanding the causes and recognizing early signs is the first step in protecting your gum health. Whether you need non-surgical intervention or advanced periodontal surgery, RVA Periodontics offers tailored treatment solutions to restore the health and appearance of your smile.