Gum Recession Explained: Causes, Treatments & Prevention

Gum recession is a problem that may go unnoticed until it is advanced. It is characterized by the wearing away of the gum tissue and the underlying bone, which exposes the root of the tooth into the oral environment. Problems associated with gum recession include tooth sensitivity and a heightened risk of root decay if left untreated. In this blog, we will demystify gum recession by exploring its causes, stages, and treatment options.

What Causes Gum Recession?

There are various factors that contribute to gum recession, some of which are related to dental hygiene habits, while others are systemic or genetic. Here are the most common causes:

Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can wear away the delicate gum tissue over time. It’s essential to brush using gentle, circular motions with a soft-bristled brush or using an electric toothbrush that vibrates the plaque away. Most electric toothbrushes will alert the user to heavy brushing pressures.
Periodontal Disease: Gum disease (periodontitis) is the most common cause of gum recession. It occurs due to plaque buildup, which leads to inflammation and destruction of the supporting tissues around the teeth. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, you should be checked for periodontal disease. Poor oral hygiene and genetics can contribute to gum disease.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Clenching or grinding your teeth can put excessive pressure on the teeth and the structures that support them. When forces are applied to the teeth, it can cause compression and flexure of the teeth and distribute forces that not only crack the teeth and cause chipping at the chewing surface and the gumline of the teeth, but the flexure of the teeth can cause the gums and bone at the gumline to recede over time.
Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco contributes to gum disease and reduces the healing capacity of gum tissues, increasing the likelihood of recession. Tobacco use may also contribute to clenching, as most stimulants do.
Misaligned Teeth or Bite Issues: Teeth that are not properly aligned can put extra pressure on the gums, causing them to recede.

Stages of Gum Recession

Gum recession progresses in four stages, and early detection is key to preventing further damage.

Stage 1: Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum recession, marked by inflammation and swelling of the gums. At this stage, the recession is mild, and the gums are slightly red or swollen. It is reversible with proper oral care.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis: As the gums start to pull away from the teeth, the early signs of periodontal disease appear. The recession becomes more noticeable, and pockets may form around the teeth, trapping bacteria.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis: In moderate periodontitis, the gum recession becomes more severe, and the supporting bone structure starts to deteriorate. Teeth may start to feel loose, and sensitivity to hot and cold foods increases.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis: This is the most advanced stage of gum recession. At this point, there is significant bone loss, and teeth may become mobile or fall out. Professional intervention is critical to prevent tooth loss and restore gum health.

Treatment Options for Gum Recession

The good news is that gum recession can be managed or even reversed with the right treatments, depending on the stage of the condition.

Improved oral hygiene: In the early stages of gum recession, improving your oral hygiene routine can help stop its progression. This includes using a soft toothbrush, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for professional cleanings.
Scaling and Root Planing: For cases where gum disease is contributing to recession, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach.
Gum Grafting: In more advanced cases, a gum graft may be necessary. This surgical procedure involves taking tissue from another area of the mouth (or using donor tissue) and attaching it to the receding gums to cover exposed tooth roots.
Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST): PST is a minimally invasive procedure that involves creating a small hole in the gum tissue and repositioning it over the exposed roots. This method requires no sutures and offers a faster recovery time compared to traditional gum grafting.
Bite Adjustment or Orthodontics: If misaligned teeth are contributing to gum recession, orthodontic treatment or a bite adjustment may be recommended to reduce the pressure on the gums and prevent further recession.
Mouthguards for Teeth Grinding: For patients with bruxism (teeth grinding), a custom-fitted nightguard can help protect the teeth and gums from the excessive pressure that contributes to gum recession.
Laser Therapy: In some cases, laser therapy may be used to remove diseased tissue, sterilize the area, and encourage healthy tissue regrowth without the need for invasive surgery.

Prevention Tips

Preventing gum recession is often easier than treating it. Here are a few simple tips to help keep your gums healthy:

Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, preferably an electric toothbrush that vibrates rather than scrubs.
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and gums to prevent gum disease from receding the gums and bones.
Schedule regular dental checkups to catch gum problems early.
Avoid tobacco products, which can exacerbate gum disease and accelerate damage from clenching.
Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.

Final Thoughts

Gum recession is a common yet often overlooked dental issue. Understanding the causes, stages, and treatments of gum recession is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. If you notice any signs of gum recession, such as sensitivity, visible root surfaces, or gums pulling away from teeth, it’s important to consult with a dentist as soon as possible.

Addressing gum recession early can prevent more serious complications down the road and ensure that your smile stays healthy for years to come. By staying informed and proactive, you can prevent or manage gum recession and keep your teeth and gums in the best condition possible.