
Table of contents
1. What is gum recession?
Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is a condition in which the gum tissue that surrounds and protects the tooth roots moves down toward the tooth root, exposing the crown of the tooth. Gum recession can occur in a few teeth, one jaw, or both the upper and lower jaws.
There are two main types of gum recession:
– Visible gum recession: Gum recession can be observed with the naked eye.
– Invisible gum recession: The receding gum is covered by the gums and can only be detected using a probe around the tooth crown.
Gum recession is a common dental problem that can occur at any age but is more common in adults over 40. However, more and more young people are experiencing this condition due to various factors.
2. Causes of gum recession
There are many causes of gum recession, including:
a. Improper oral hygiene:
– Brushing too hard or using a hard toothbrush can damage the gums and cause gum recession.
– Not brushing and flossing regularly leads to tartar buildup, gingivitis and receding gums.
b. Periodontal disease:
Gingivitis and periodontitis are common causes of receding gums. If left untreated, the buildup of bacteria can destroy gum tissue and jawbone, leading to receding gums.
c. Genetics:
Some people are prone to gum recession due to genetic factors, such as thin gum structure or uneven teeth.
d. Bad habits:
– Grinding or clenching your teeth while sleeping can put pressure on your gums and lead to receding gums.
– Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, making them vulnerable to damage and receding gums.
e. Hormones:
Hormonal changes in the body, especially in women during pregnancy or menopause, can increase the risk of receding gums.
f. Injury:
Accidents or injuries to the mouth can damage the gums and lead to gum recession.
g. Malocclusion:
Crooked teeth or an uneven bite can put uneven pressure on the gums, leading to gum recession in some areas.
3. Signs of gum recession
To detect gum recession early, you need to pay attention to the following signs:
a. Exposed tooth roots:
The most obvious sign of gum recession is that more of the tooth root is exposed than usual.
b. Sensitive teeth:
When the tooth root is exposed, you may feel pain or sensitivity when eating hot, cold, sour, or sweet foods.
c. Bleeding when brushing teeth:
Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing are a sign of gingivitis, which can lead to receding gums.
d. Red and swollen gums:
Inflamed gums will be darker red than normal and may be swollen.
e. Bad breath:
Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gingivitis or receding gums.
f. Change in tooth shape:
Teeth appear longer or have wider spaces between teeth.
g. Pain:
In some cases, gum recession can cause pain or discomfort in the gum area.
4. Harmful effects of gum recession
Gum recession not only affects aesthetics but can also cause many serious oral health problems:
a. Increased risk of tooth decay:
When the tooth root is exposed, this part is not protected by enamel and is more susceptible to decay.
b. Sensitive and tender:
Exposed tooth roots make teeth sensitive to temperature and other stimuli, causing discomfort when eating and drinking.
c. Tooth loss:
If left untreated, gum recession can lead to loss of supporting bone and eventually tooth loss.
d. Infection:
Receding gums create gaps between the teeth and gums, which are ideal places for bacteria to grow, leading to infection.
e. Aesthetic impact:
Receding gums can change the shape of your smile and cause a loss of confidence.
f. Difficulty chewing:
Sensitive teeth due to receding gums can make it difficult to eat certain foods.
g. Psychological impact:
Gum recession can affect a person's self-confidence and quality of life.
5. Treatment of gum recession
Treatment for receding gums depends on the severity of the condition. Here are some common treatments:
a. Deep oral hygiene:
For mild cases, improving oral hygiene and removing tartar can help prevent further gum recession.
b. Periodontal treatment:
If the gum recession is due to gingivitis or periodontitis, your dentist will perform procedures such as curettage to remove bacteria and plaque.
c. Gum grafting:
In cases of severe gum recession, your doctor may perform gum graft surgery to restore lost gum tissue.
d. Tissue regeneration:
This technique uses biomaterials to stimulate the regeneration of supporting gum tissue and bone.
e. Bite adjustment:
If gum recession is due to a malocclusion, orthodontic treatment may be recommended to reduce pressure on the gums.
f. Use of drugs:
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications to control infection and inflammation.
g. Laser therapy:
This method uses lasers to stimulate the regeneration of gum tissue and reduce inflammation.
6. How to prevent gum recession
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to help prevent gum recession:
a. Proper oral hygiene:
– Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
– Use dental floss daily to clean between teeth.
b. Regular dental check-ups:
Visit your dentist every 6 months for a dental check-up and cleaning if needed.
c. Quit smoking:
Smoking increases your risk of gum recession, so quitting smoking will help protect your gums.
d. Stress control:
Stress can affect gum health, so find ways to relax and reduce stress.
e. Balanced diet:
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, foods rich in vitamin C and calcium to improve gum health.
f. Use the toothbrush properly:
Brush your teeth gently in circular motions, avoiding vigorous rubbing.
g. Treatment of teeth grinding:
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about using a mouth guard while you sleep.
7. Frequently asked questions about gum recession
a. Can gum recession heal on its own?
No, gum recession cannot go away on its own. However, with proper care and prompt treatment, it is possible to stop the condition from progressing and, in some cases, restore some of the lost gum.
b. Is gum recession hereditary?
Genetic factors can influence the risk of gum recession. Some people have thin gum tissue or uneven teeth due to genetics, which increases the risk of gum recession.
c. Is gum recession painful?
In its early stages, receding gums are usually painless. However, as the condition becomes more severe, you may experience sensitivity or pain, especially when eating hot, cold, or acidic foods.
d. Can gum recession be treated at home?
Although there are some home remedies that can be used to relieve symptoms, such as using specialized mouthwashes or gum gels, effective treatment of receding gums requires the intervention of a dental professional.
e. Does gum recession affect overall health?
Yes, receding gums not only affect your oral health but can also be linked to a number of overall health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.