Gingival Recession: Everything You Need To Know

 Gingival Recession is also known as gum recession. It happens when the gum tissue shifts back to expose the tooth's root. When this occurs, it can be painful and sensitive when eating and brushing. The tooth also becomes more vulnerable to dental cavities.

Luckily, there are many options available to treat and manage this gum disease. They include topical antibiotics, orthodontics and even surgical care.

Whether you suspect you have a gingival recession or you want to care for someone else, knowing everything about it is important to give yourself relief and bring back that smile.

In this article, you will learn what gingival recession is, the causes, self-care methods, prevention tips and what to do when surgery for the bad gum recession is needed.

NB: Gum recession is just one of the many causes of tooth sensitivity.

To learn more, you can check out our article on common causes of tooth sensitivity.

Table of Contents:
1. What is Gum Recession

2. What Causes Receding Gums

3. Treatment options for Receding Gums

4. Gingival Recession Surgery 

5. How to Prevent Gum Line Recession

6. FAQs about Gingival Recession

What is Gum Recession?

This is a form of gum disease. When your gum pulls away from your teeth and exposes the hard roots. After some time, the teeth become more sensitive as it is exposed to cavities. This gum disease can be moderate or severe, depending on the causes and treatment methods.

Most of the time, it is caused by a dental infection in the tooth. This gum disease is caused by plaque, sticky bacteria built around the teeth. As the plaque continues to build, the teeth start to bleed. Eventually, the gums recede.

Recession of the gingiva is more common in people over 65 years. For most people, gum recession usually develops over the years. The gum changes start minimally, so most patients do not notice it early.

The most frequent signs of gum recession are:

1. Pain in the gumline of the affected tooth

2. Bad breath (halitosis)

3. Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures 

4. Change in the tooth’s color

5. Cavities below the gum line

6. Sensitive teeth when eating, brushing or flossing

What Causes Receding Gums?
Bad gum recession can be caused by:

1. Genetics: Some people are naturally prone to gum recession, such as having thin or weak gum lines.

2. Poor oral hygiene: Habits such as infrequent brushing or excessive flossing can cause injuries and tartar buildup. This can result in a gum recession.

3. Scurvy (lack of sufficient Vitamin C): Vitamin C deficiency weakens the connective tissues supporting the gums. This could lead to inflammation, bleeding and gum recession.

4. Previous periodontal disease: This is the major cause of gingival recession. This disease damages the gum tissue of teeth and can even cause bone loss.

5. Trauma or injury to the gum tissue: Any injury like a fall or blow can cause the teeth to become loose and cause recession.

6. Smoking or chewing tobacco: Tobacco contains nicotine, which limits oxygen and nutrient flow. This hinders the gum’s ability to repair itself.

7. Abnormal tooth positioning: When teeth are crooked or misaligned, they can put pressure on the gum tissue. Gradually, they become weak and expose more of the teeth. After a while, it results in receding gums.

Treatment options for Receding Gums
The treatment used for receding gums mostly depends on what caused it. Most often, mild cases can be improved with non-surgical treatments. 

Here are some of the options available to you.

1. Topical antibiotics:

This is used when the receding gums are caused by periodontal disease. The dentist can do a deep dental cleaning to get rid of harmful bacteria. Sometimes, the periodontist (gum specialist) can also prescribe topical antibiotics under the gum. This helps in treating gum disease. Always ensure to follow the dentist's prescription to get optimum results.

2. Dental bonding:

In some cases, the dentist uses a tooth-colored resin to cover the affected area. This will make the gum line recession less noticeable and more comfortable. However, this does not always help with the pain or sensitivity.

3. Orthodontics:

Gum line recession can also happen if the tooth is crooked or malformed. In this case, the dentist can use braces to move the teeth into alignment. Over time, the gum margin may repair itself.

Gingival Recession Surgery
Sometimes, gingival recession surgery is needed to correct the issue. This is also called Gum Graft Surgery or Gum Contouring. It is the most widely used treatment plan for bad gum recession.

In the surgery, the periodontist (surgeon) uses a gum graft to replace the missing gum tissue. This graft comes from the roof of your mouth or sterilized human donor tissue. It is then stitched into place and left to heal for two weeks.

This procedure enhances the appearance of your smile and also contributes to overall health.

How to Prevent Gum Line Recession
Since most people are genetically predisposed to gingival recession, there are no prevention methods. However, you can reduce your risk by practicing teeth and gum care methods like:

1. Brushing once or twice everyday 

2. Using an antimicrobial wash once daily

3. Floss daily

4. Using a soft bristled toothbrush

FAQs about Gingival Recession 
1. Can gums grow back?

Unfortunately, receding gums do not grow back. However, there are several gingival recession treatment options, including surgery. Our team of experts will give you personalized options to fit your plans.

2. How do I know my gum line is receding?

The first sign of gum line recession is visible teeth roots. Also, the teeth become more sensitive and painful than usual. It is important to visit the dentist immediately if you notice any of these.

3. Can gum recession be cured?

No. Recession of the gingiva can only be managed with self-care treatments or surgery. Home remedies like using natural oils to remove plaque can also help with the pain. Using mouthwash and taking vitamin C will also help but will not treat it.

4. How can I reduce the sensitivity of my teeth?

The sensitivity happens because the tooth is no longer protected by the enamel covering it. So, your dentist can apply fluoride or other desensitizing agents to help with the pain. You can also use desensitizing toothpaste at home. Numbing agents can also be used during the dental cleaning process.

5. What is the best toothpaste for gum line recession?

Desensitizing toothpaste can help with the pain and discomfort. Any toothpaste containing potassium nitrate, arginine and stannous fluoride will help. But these toothpastes usually take weeks to start working. So, it is best to see our team of experts and let them handle it.

Gum line recession can cause pain and serious damage if left untreated. So, it is important to visit a certified professional so they can help you get your smile back. Ready to get started?

Visit us or book an online appointment today to protect your oral health.