Healthy gums are often overlooked in conversations about oral health, but they play a critical role in protecting your teeth and supporting long-term dental function. When the gum tissue begins to pull back from the tooth surface—a condition known as gum recession—it exposes the root of the tooth and opens the door to a range of dental problems, from sensitivity to decay and tooth loss.
At Big Sky Family Dental, we help patients address gum recession early with personalized, evidence-based care. Whether you’ve noticed a change in your gumline or are asking, “how can I fix gum recession?”, this guide will help you understand what’s happening and what you can do about it.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession is a progressive condition in which the gingival tissue (gum) surrounding the teeth gradually wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It can occur in one tooth or multiple teeth and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Teeth appearing longer than normal
- A visible notch or groove near the gumline
- Swelling, bleeding, or tenderness of the gums
Gum recession is not just a cosmetic concern—it can lead to serious oral health complications if left untreated.
How Common Is Gum Recession?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of all adults over 30 in the United States show signs of periodontal disease. Gum recession is a key symptom of this disease and becomes more prevalent with age. The Journal of Periodontology reports that 88% of adults over 65 have at least one site with 1 mm or more of gingival recession.
While aging increases the likelihood, gum recession is not inevitable. With proper care and early intervention, it can be prevented or managed.
What Causes Gum Recession?
There isn’t a single cause of gum recession. Instead, it typically results from multiple factors, including oral hygiene habits, underlying medical conditions, and anatomical variations.
1. Aggressive Toothbrushing
Brushing your teeth too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can erode enamel and irritate the gums, leading to recession. Over time, this mechanical trauma damages the soft tissue and causes it to recede.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
Failing to remove plaque and tartar effectively can cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and eventually lead to periodontitis—a more advanced form of gum disease that breaks down both soft and hard tissue.
3. Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of gum recession. It begins as gingivitis and, without treatment, progresses to chronic periodontitis, where bacterial infection destroys the supporting gum and bone.
4. Tooth Position or Misalignment
Misaligned teeth or bite issues can place uneven pressure on certain areas of the gum tissue, contributing to recession over time. Orthodontic correction may be necessary in some cases.
5. Tobacco Use
Tobacco users—especially those who smoke or chew tobacco—are at greater risk for gum disease and tissue breakdown. Studies show that smokers are up to six times more likely to develop gum recession than non-smokers.
6. Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in hormones, especially in women during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, can make gums more vulnerable to inflammation and sensitivity, which may accelerate recession.
7. Genetics
Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to thinner gum tissue, which is more prone to recession. Even with excellent hygiene, these individuals may be more vulnerable.
8. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Chronic grinding or clenching of teeth can strain the supporting gum tissue and lead to gum loss. It also contributes to enamel wear and sensitivity, compounding the problem.
Consequences of Gum Recession
Gum recession is not just a cosmetic issue—it can have serious implications for your oral health if not addressed.
Exposed Roots and Sensitivity
As the gums recede, they expose the root surfaces of teeth, which lack enamel. This leads to increased sensitivity to temperature, touch, and certain foods, and makes the teeth more vulnerable to decay.
Higher Risk of Decay
Exposed roots are softer and more susceptible to cavities. Root caries are common in patients with gum recession and may require special restorative treatment.
Gum Inflammation and Infection
Receding gums can harbor bacteria, leading to localized inflammation or even abscesses. If gum disease continues unchecked, it can result in bone loss and tooth mobility.
Aesthetic Concerns
Teeth with recession often look longer, which some people find unattractive. Gum asymmetry or dark triangles between teeth can also impact confidence in one’s smile.
Tooth Loss
Advanced gum recession and periodontal disease can lead to destruction of the bone and ligaments that anchor the teeth, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.
How Can I Fix Gum Recession?
The good news is that multiple treatment options exist to manage gum recession—ranging from conservative care to surgical intervention. The best course of action depends on the severity of the recession, the underlying cause, and your overall dental health.
1. Behavioral and Lifestyle Changes
Mild cases of recession caused by brushing or bruxism can often be managed with conservative measures:
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions
- Use desensitizing toothpaste to relieve discomfort
- Treat bruxism with a custom night guard to prevent further damage
- Avoid tobacco products and limit acidic foods
At Big Sky Family Dental, we provide guidance on brushing technique, toothbrush selection, and diet modifications as part of our preventative dentistry services.
2. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
If gum recession is related to periodontal disease, we may recommend a deep cleaning procedure. This involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the root surface to encourage gum reattachment.
Clinical research published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology shows that scaling and root planing significantly reduce gum inflammation and improve attachment levels when combined with good home care.
3. Gum Graft Surgery
In moderate to severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Gum grafting involves taking soft tissue from another area of your mouth (usually the palate) and attaching it to the area where the gums have receded.
Types of grafts include:
- Connective tissue grafts (most common)
- Free gingival grafts (for thin gum tissue)
- Pedicle grafts (tissue is moved from adjacent areas)
Gum grafts not only restore aesthetics and reduce sensitivity but also halt further recession and lower the risk of tooth loss.
4. Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)
A newer, minimally invasive approach to gum restoration, PST involves making a small hole in the gum and using specialized instruments to reposition the tissue. This technique avoids sutures and can reduce recovery time.
Not all patients are candidates, but for those who qualify, it’s a promising option with favorable cosmetic outcomes.
5. Composite Restoration or Veneers
In cases where gum grafting is not possible or desired, a dentist may apply a tooth-colored resin to cover the exposed root. While this doesn’t restore gum tissue, it protects the root and improves aesthetics.
Preventing Gum Recession
The best way to avoid gum recession is to prioritize preventative dentistry. Routine checkups, cleanings, and healthy habits form the foundation of gum preservation.
Recommendations for Prevention:
- Brush twice a day using proper technique
- Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup along the gumline
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Quit smoking or using tobacco
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and D
- Keep up with professional cleanings and periodontal maintenance
At Big Sky Family Dental, we screen for early signs of gum recession and provide personalized recommendations to keep your gums healthy and intact.
When to See a Dentist
You should make an appointment with your dentist if you notice:
- Your teeth look longer than they used to
- You experience new or worsening sensitivity
- You see notches at the gumline
- Your gums bleed when brushing or flossing
- You notice swelling, bad breath, or loose teeth
Early detection leads to more conservative treatment and better outcomes.
Conclusion: Protect Your Gums to Protect Your Smile
Gum recession is a gradual yet serious threat to your oral health. It can develop silently, with few noticeable symptoms at first—but over time, it can compromise the strength, comfort, and appearance of your teeth.
At Big Sky Family Dental, we take a comprehensive approach to gum health by identifying risk factors, providing early intervention, and offering advanced treatment options. If you’re wondering how can I fix gum recession, know that there are proven solutions—and the sooner you act, the better the results.
Don’t wait for discomfort or visible changes to prompt action. Schedule a consultation today and protect your gums for the future of your smile.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Periodontal Disease.”
- American Academy of Periodontology. “Gum Recession Causes and Treatments.”
- Journal of Periodontology. “Prevalence of Gingival Recession in the U.S. Population.”
- Journal of Clinical Periodontology. “Effectiveness of Scaling and Root Planing.”
- Mayo Clinic. “Gum Graft Surgery.”
