What you need to know about receding gums

Have you noticed your gums pulling back from your teeth? This condition, known as receding gums, can make your teeth look bigger and may even cause tooth sensitivity.

Taking good care of your gum tissue is crucial because it plays a vital role in preventing gum disease and keeping your teeth securely in place. In this article, we will discuss what causes receding gums, what treatments are available, and how to stop it from progressing further.

What does it mean to have receding gums?

Receding gums refer to a condition where the gum tissue that surrounds and protects the teeth starts pull back as a result of bone loss supporting the roots of your teeth, thereby exposing more of the tooth’s surface or even the tooth root in severe cases. As the gums recede, the gumline may appear lower, and gaps or spaces may develop between the teeth and gums. This can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, the appearance of longer teeth, and potential oral health issues.

Receding gums can be caused by various factors, including gum disease, aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, and genetic predisposition. It’s important to address receding gums promptly with your dentist to prevent further damage and maintain gum and overall oral health.

Other common signs & symptoms of receding gums

Apart from the more obvious visual signs, some of the other signs of gum recession include:

Tooth Sensitivity: As the gums recede, the roots of the teeth become exposed, which are not protected by enamel like the crown of the tooth. This can result in heightened tooth sensitivity, causing discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.

Gum Sensitivity: Receding gums can make the remaining gum tissue thinner and more vulnerable. This can result in increased gum sensitivity, making brushing, flossing, or even light touch uncomfortable or painful.

Gum Inflammation or Redness: While gum recession itself may not cause inflammation, it can contribute to an increased risk of gum inflammation or redness. When the roots of the teeth become exposed, they are more susceptible to bacterial plaque buildup due to open spaces between the roots, which can lead to gum infections like gingivitis or periodontitis.

Pain/Discomfort: Gum recession can lead to pain or discomfort in the affected area. The exposure of tooth roots and the underlying sensitive dentine can result in pain or aching sensations, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the affected teeth.

Causes of receding gums

In order to effectively treat gum recession it’s important to understand the underlying causes. There often isn’t just one underlying cause for receding gums, many factors can contribute to it. These may include:

• Aggressive tooth brushing or brushing too hard

• Poor oral hygiene

• Dental plaque and tartar build up

• Physical trauma to the mouth

• Hormonal changes

• Lip, tongue, or mouth piercings

• Smoking

• Genetic predisposition

• Gum diseases such as periodontal disease and gingivitis

A dentist will be able to help you identify the root cause of the gum recession and put in a plan to help you treat it moving forward.

Treatment options for receding gums

Now that we’ve identified some of the common factors that could lead to gum recession, it’s time to look at treatment options. Now, unfortunately, you can’t do much to make receding gums grow back. However, there are some things you can do to further prevent gum recession and fix the appearance. These include:

Gum grafting

Gum grafting is a surgical procedure used to treat receding gums. It involves taking gum tissue from another area of the mouth, such as the palate or nearby gums, and grafting it onto the areas where the gums have receded. The grafted tissue helps cover exposed tooth roots, prevents further recession, and restores a more aesthetic appearance. Gum grafting can also improve oral health, reduce sensitivity, and protect the underlying tooth structure.

Dental bonding

Another treatment dentists may consider for you is dental bonding. In this procedure, a tooth-coloured resin material is applied to the exposed root surfaces to cover and protect them. The resin is shaped and moulded to match the natural contours of the teeth, improving the appearance of the gum line. Dental bonding can be a quick and cost-effective solution for mild cases of gum recession, providing both functional and cosmetic benefits. However, it may not be suitable for more severe cases or cases that involve underlying gum disease.

Open flap scaling and root planing

This deep cleaning procedure is performed by a dentist and involves the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and tooth roots, followed by smoothing the root surfaces. This process helps to eliminate bacteria and promote gum reattachment. Like dental bonding, this may not be suitable for more advanced cases of gum recession.

Preventing receding gums

Once your gums have started to recede, they won’t grow back so it’s important to make an effort in maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent receding gums. This includes ensuring you brush your teeth gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily. Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products, as they increase the risk of gum disease. Scheduling regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and early detection of gum issues. Eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and protecting your gums with a dental mouth guard during sports activities. Finally, if you ever have any concerns regarding gum recession or your oral health, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist for advice and timely treatment.

Chat to Cambridge City Dental about receding gums

The thought of receding gums can be alarming at first, but with proper knowledge and preventive measures, it is possible to maintain healthy gums and prevent further recession. By practising good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and regular flossing, and avoiding tobacco use, you can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease and recession. Regular dental check-ups and early intervention are key in identifying and addressing any issues promptly. Remember, by prioritising gum health and seeking professional guidance, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining healthy gums and a confident smile.

If you are concerned about the health of your gums, it’s better to seek advice sooner rather than later. At Cambridge City Dental, our doors are always open to new patients. Plus, we’re conveniently located just 5 minutes away from Perth CBD, book your appointment with one of our dentists online or by calling .

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can receding gums be reversed?

  While it is not possible to fully reverse receding gums, there are treatment options available to address the condition and prevent further progression. The goal of treatment is to stabilise the gum recession and promote gum tissue health.

  It is important to note that the success of these treatments depends on various factors, including the severity of gum recession, overall oral health, and individual patient circumstances. Additionally, practising good oral hygiene, maintaining regular dental check-ups, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly contribute to preventing further gum recession and maintaining gum health.

  If you are experiencing receding gums, it is best to consult your local dentist who can evaluate your specific situation, recommend the most appropriate treatment options, and provide guidance on how to effectively manage and prevent further gum recession.

• How do you stop receding gums from getting worse?

  To prevent receding gums from worsening, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene practices such as gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, daily flossing, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. Maintain regular dental check-ups and promptly treat any dental issues that may arise. It’s crucial to seek guidance from a dentist to develop a personalised plan to stop the progression of gum recession.

• Why are my gums receding?

  As mentioned in this article, there’s often not just one root cause of gum recession. Therefore, it can be hard to understand what exactly may be causing your gums to recede. It’s best to consult with a dentist so they can help you identify the root cause of gum recession so you can best treat it moving forward.

Contact one of the dentists at Cambridge City Dental to learn more about receding gums.