Gum Recession

Gingival recession, or receding gums, is a progressive condition characterized by the loss of gum tissue, which can eventually lead to the exposure of tooth roots if left untreated. While gum recession is more common in adults over 40 years old, it can begin as early as the teenage years.

Detecting gum recession in its early stages can be challenging as the changes often occur gradually and without noticeable symptoms. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for preventing gum recession and assessing any risk factors.

Several symptoms may indicate gum recession:

Sensitive teeth: Exposed tooth roots due to gum recession can make the dentin tubules beneath more sensitive to external stimuli.

Visible roots: Severe cases of gum recession often result in the roots becoming visible.

Longer-looking teeth: Gingival recession can give the appearance of longer teeth, even though the length of the teeth is normal. The loss of gum tissue makes the teeth seem longer.

Halitosis, inflammation, and bleeding: These symptoms are common in gingivitis or periodontal disease, where bacterial infection causes the gums to recede from the teeth. If left untreated, tooth loss can occur.

Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession is a prevalent issue diagnosed and treated by dentists on a regular basis. It is crucial to conduct a thorough examination of the affected areas and accurately diagnose the underlying problem. Once the cause of gum recession is determined, appropriate surgical or non-surgical procedures can be performed to stop its progression and prevent future occurrences.

The most common causes of gingival recession include:

Overaggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or with a hard-bristled toothbrush can erode the tooth enamel at the gum line and irritate or inflame the gum tissue.

Poor oral hygiene: Improper or inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque build-up, which contains bacterial toxins that can cause infection and erosion of the underlying jawbone.

Chewing tobacco: All forms of tobacco use have detrimental effects on oral health. Chewing tobacco, in particular, aggravates the gum lining and leads to gum recession with continuous use.

Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease can result from improper oral hygiene or systemic diseases such as diabetes. The presence of excess sugars in the mouth and narrowed blood vessels in diabetics create an environment favorable for oral bacteria, leading to infection that progresses into the gum and bone tissue, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.

Treatment of Gum Recession

Treatment options for gum recession vary depending on the specific case. Addressing the underlying cause of recession is essential.

If aggressive brushing is the culprit, switching to a softer toothbrush and adopting a gentler brushing technique is recommended. For poor oral hygiene, professional dental cleaning (prophylaxis) may be necessary to remove debris and bacteria from gum pockets. In cases of severe calculus build-up, scaling and root planing can help heal gingival inflammation and clean the teeth.

Once the cause of gingival recession is addressed, more cosmetic or restorative surgical procedures may be recommended. Gum tissue regeneration and gum grafting are two effective methods for restoring natural gum symmetry and enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the smile.