Gum recession is a common problem for people of all ages. Although you can’t reverse gum recession and its effects, there are things you can do to stop the problem from becoming worse.
What is gum recession?
Gum recession is a form of gum disease in which gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, revealing the tooth’s root. According to the Journal of American Dental Association (JADA), “You can have a healthy mouth and practice good oral hygiene, and yet experience a condition called gingival (gum) recession. Healthy gingival tissue forms a protective collar around a tooth. When gingival tissue recedes, exposing the tooth’s root, sensitivity may result.”
The Cleveland Clinic estimates that 88 percent of people aged 65 and older have gum recession on at least one tooth. However, it can occur at any age.
Symptoms of gum recession
Most people with gum recession can identify the condition by visibly seeing the tooth’s root. Other symptoms of receding gums include:
- Sensitivity to heat and cold
- Pain at the gum line
- Discomfort at dental cleanings
- Loose teeth
Causes of Gum Recession
Individuals over the age of 65 are most likely to develop gum recession. However, people can develop it at any age. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the following factors may put you at higher risk of developing gum recession:
- Brushing teeth aggressively
- Using tobacco products
- Having plaque or tartar buildup
- Having periodontal (gum) disease
- Piercing your lips or tongue
Nonsurgical treatments for gum recession
Although it’s impossible for receding gums to grow back, there are nonsurgical treatments that can help stop any further recession.
- Root scaling and planing: Root scaling and planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a nonsurgical procedure used to treat gum disease, particularly in its early to moderate stages. This treatment involves cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the roots of the teeth and the pockets of the gums.
- Dental bonding: Dentists can use a tooth-colored composite resin to help camouflage the recession area, hiding the recession and making it more comfortable for you.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, dentists may recommend using topical antibiotics on the gums to treat gum disease.
Surgical treatments for gum recession
If you’re looking for a long-lasting treatment, or if the gum recession is too severe, your dentist or periodontist may recommend a gum graft surgery. During this procedure, the missing gum tissue is replaced by other tissue taken from various parts of your mouth, usually the roof. The tissue is grafted, or attached, to the receding area(s), which will help reduce the effects of gum recession and improve your overall oral health.
Prevent gum recession at home
The best thing you can do to keep your gums healthy is to maintain a proper oral care routine. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily and visit the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and check-ups. If you notice any changes in the health of your gums, be sure to reach out to your dentist immediately.
*Updated January 2024
