Receding gums, also known as gum recession or gingival recession, are a condition in which your gums pull back from the tooth surface, exposing the root surfaces of your teeth. It’s just one form of gum periodontal disease. This is a serious consequence of poor oral health, which may lead to tooth loss.
There are a variety of treatments available, depending on the severity of tissue loss. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment, the better the outcome.
Symptoms of receding gums
Gum recession is noticeable in day-to-day life, and you may begin to notice symptoms of receding gums like:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain or discomfort when chewing or brushing
- Visible roots of the teeth
- Longer-looking teeth than usual
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down
- Increased risk of tooth decay and infections
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment with your dentist as sooner than later to prevent further damage and get the treatment you need.
Causes of gum recession
If your gums are receding, it’s usually due to genetics or your day-to-day lifestyle.
Some of the most common causes of gum recession include:
- Gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. It's a bacterial infection that can damage the gum tissue and cause it to recede over time. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and can harden into tartar if not removed by brushing and flossing. When plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth, they can irritate and inflame the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and tender. If left untreated, the bacteria in the plaque can penetrate deeper into the gum tissue, leading to the breakdown of the gum attachment to the teeth and the bone that supports the teeth. This can ultimately result in gum recession, tooth loss, and other serious oral health problems.
- Genetics. Some people may be more predisposed to gum recession due to their genetic makeup. For instance, some individuals may have thinner gum tissues or weaker attachments between the gums and teeth, making them more susceptible to gum recession. Additionally, certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can also lead to gum disease and gum recession.
- Brushing too hard or excessively. Over brushing and brushing your teeth too aggressively can cause the gum tissue to wear away and can lead to gum recession. This is because the excessive pressure applied to the gums can cause them to pull away from the teeth and expose more of the tooth root. Over time, this can weaken the gums and make them more vulnerable to infection and further recession
- Poor dental hygiene. Poor dental hygiene can have a significant impact on the health of your gums. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and can cause gum irritation and inflammation. If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar.
- Hormonal changes. Hormonal changes and some hormonal medications can affect the body’s response to gum disease and inflammation, which can increase the risk of gum recession.
- Smoking. Smoking can damage the gum tissue and reduce blood flow to the gums, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Smokers are also more likely to accumulate tartar on their teeth, which can lead to this as well. Additionally, smoking can interfere with the healing process, making it more difficult for the gums to recover from any damage caused by gum disease or other factors.
Preventing receding gums
Perhaps one of the best tools for preventing receding gums is to see a dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Even if you don’t experience any symptoms, a dentist can identify early signs of gum disease. You can also help prevent gum problems by practicing smart oral health habits.
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging your gums.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline.
- Use a mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Quit smoking, as it can increase your risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.
- Eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, and limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods.
Visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups and teeth cleaning
Treatment of receding gums
Treatment of receding gums depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with improved oral hygiene and regular professional dental cleaning.
It is important to consult with a dentist or periodontist to determine the best course of treatment for receding gums. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, avoiding smoking, and addressing any underlying health conditions can help prevent or slow down the progression of receding gums.
Medication:
If an infection is found in the gums, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Other medications may also be used to treat the underlying problem that is causing gum recession. Options include:
- topical antibiotic gel
- antiseptic chips
- antimicrobial mouthwash
- enzyme suppressants
If you have only mild gum recession, a deep-cleaning procedure may be enough to solve your problem. This procedure, aka root planing or tooth scaling, typically involves removing hardened plaque and tartar underneath your teeth and gums. The exposed root area of the teeth is also smoothed down to protect your gums from bacteria and infection.
Root planing is a deep tissue cleaning used if other treatments fail. It gets rid of bacteria and tartar buildup within the gums. In order to perform this surgery, a periodontist lifts up the gums and then puts them back in place when the procedure is over. Sometimes the teeth appear even longer after flap surgery because the gums fit more closely around them.
Gum grafting:
In grafting, the goal is to revive either gum tissues or the bones. During the procedure, the periodontist places either a synthetic particle or a piece of bone or tissue to help the gums grow back. It’s important to note that this process cannot be successful over the long term without proper oral health care.
Complications of Receding Gums
The medical research found receding gums are responsible for about 70 percent of adult tooth loss. When there is not enough gum tissue to hold tooth roots in place, the teeth are vulnerable to falling out. In some instances, multiple loose teeth are removed by the dentist before they fall out.
Can receding gums grow back?
Sadly the short answer is no. The tissue in your gums doesn’t regenerate the way other types of tissue does. That means preventing receding is your best bet for long term gum health.