Receding Gums: Causes and Treatment Options

Have you noticed that your teeth look a little longer than they used to, or that they have become sensitive to hot and cold? These are common early signs of receding gums, a condition in which the gum tissue pulls back and exposes more of the tooth. Gum recession is very common, and while it cannot reverse on its own, it can be treated and stopped from getting worse. Here is what causes it, how to spot it, and what your treatment options are.

What Are Receding Gums?

Receding gums, or gum recession, is when the margin of gum tissue that surrounds your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth and eventually the root. As the root becomes exposed, small pockets can form between the teeth and gum line where bacteria collect. Left untreated, this can lead to sensitivity, decay along the root, and in advanced cases, loose teeth. The important thing to know is that recession usually happens gradually, so there is time to catch and treat it if you know what to look for.

Common Causes of Gum Recession

Receding gums have several possible causes, and often more than one is at play:

• Gum disease. This is the leading cause. Bacterial infection of the gums (periodontal disease) destroys gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth.
• Aggressive brushing. Brushing too hard, or with a stiff-bristled brush, can physically wear the gum tissue away over time.
• Teeth grinding and clenching. The extra force from grinding (bruxism) puts stress on the gums and can contribute to recession.
• Tobacco use. Smoking and other tobacco products make gum tissue more vulnerable and harder to heal.
• Genetics. Some people are simply more prone to gum recession because of thinner gum tissue.
• Hormonal changes. Shifts in hormone levels can make gums more sensitive and prone to recession.

Because the treatment depends on the cause, the first step is always an exam to identify what is driving the recession in your case.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Gum recession can be easy to miss early on. See a dentist if you notice any of the following:

• Teeth that appear longer than before
• New or increasing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• A visible notch or step where the tooth meets the gum
• Gums that look red, swollen, or bleed when you brush
• Teeth that feel loose

If your gums are already bleeding or pulling back noticeably, our receding gums resource explains what to expect at your visit.

Treatment Options for Receding Gums

The right treatment depends on how far the recession has progressed:

• Improved oral hygiene and gentle brushing. For mild recession, switching to a soft-bristled brush and a gentle technique, combined with regular professional cleanings, may be enough to stop it.
• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). When gum disease is the cause, a deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal and reattach.
• Periodontal treatment. More advanced gum disease may need ongoing periodontal care to control the infection and protect the bone. Our periodontics team handles these cases.
• Gum grafting. In more severe cases, a gum graft can cover the exposed root and restore lost tissue, protecting the tooth and improving appearance.

The earlier recession is caught, the simpler and more affordable the treatment tends to be, which is one more reason regular checkups matter.

How to Prevent Gum Recession

Many cases of gum recession are preventable. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and a gentle technique, floss daily, and keep up with regular dental checkups and cleanings. If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard, and if you use tobacco, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your gums. Catching and treating problems early is always easier than reversing damage later.

Frequently Asked Questions