Gum recession, in easy words, is the pulling back of gum tissue from the teeth. It exposes the tooth roots and makes them appear longer than normal. While it may not be something you notice right away, over time, it can change the way your smile looks and feels.
Let’s talk more about what gum recession really looks like!
Causes Behind Gum Recession
Many reasons contribute to receding gums, such as:
- Infections like gingivitis and periodontitis
- Poor oral hygiene
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too forcefully
- Genetically having thinner or delicate gum tissues
- The risk increases with age, especially after 40
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Pressure from grinding or clenching
- Misaligned teeth and bite issues
Visual Signs of Gum Recession
Here are some visual signs that indicate your gums are receding:
- Your teeth look longer than usual as the gums pull back
- You may see or feel small notches or grooves near the gumline.
- The exposed part looks darker than the rest of the tooth
- Gumline becomes uneven
- You might also notice gaps between your teeth
Physical and Sensory Signs of Gum Recession
Here are some physical and sensory signs that indicate your gums are receding:
- Your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- You feel sharp pain during brushing and flossing
- Gums appear red and inflamed
- Brushing and flossing causes bleeding
- Teeth may start to feel slightly loose
- Your bite may feel different
Can Gum Recession be Reversed?
Receding gums cannot fully grow back on their own, but they can be stopped from getting worse. If caught early, your dentist may suggest deep cleaning, i.e., scaling and root planing to remove plaque and bacteria from below the gumline. This helps the gums heal and reattach more tightly to the teeth.
If your condition is severe, you may need a gum graft to resolve the issue. In any case, it is best to consult a dentist to get personalized advice. They will assess the severity of your condition, age, and overall health to provide a treatment option.
How to Prevent Gum Recession
Here is how you can prevent gum recession:
- Brush gently using a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Avoid using tobacco products
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups
- Wear a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D to support gum health
Final Say
Gum recession is a common oral health concern. It is characterized by the pulling back of gum tissue that makes your teeth appear longer. Reasons such as gum infection, poor oral hygiene, age, smoking, and grinding can contribute to this tissue. Apart from visual signs, gum recession can cause sensitivity, bite misalignment, and even tooth loss.
If you suspect signs of gum recession, get it checked by our expert dentist, Dr. Omad Chaudhary, FICOI, at Enhance Dental at Heritage for a comprehensive diagnosis and care. Call us at (919) 569-5719 to book your appointment.