What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or even the tooth root. This process is gradual, so many people do not realize it is happening until significant recession has already occurred. Because the roots of your teeth are not protected by hard enamel like the crowns, exposed roots are vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and further damage.
Receding gums are more than a cosmetic concern. They can lead to tooth sensitivity, root cavities, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated. At Redwater Dental Clinic, we monitor gum health at every visit and offer treatments to protect exposed roots and halt further recession.
Common Causes
Gum recession can result from a combination of factors. Understanding your specific risk factors helps us develop the most effective prevention and treatment plan.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush is one of the most common causes of gum recession. Over time, the mechanical force wears away gum tissue. Switching to a soft-bristled brush and using gentle pressure can prevent further damage.
- Gum disease (periodontal disease): Bacterial infections in the gums destroy gum tissue and the underlying bone that supports your teeth. Gum disease is the leading cause of recession in adults and requires professional treatment to control.
- Genetics: Research shows that up to 30% of the population may be predisposed to gum disease regardless of how well they care for their teeth. If your parents had receding gums, you may be at higher risk.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Clenching and grinding places excessive force on the teeth and gums, which can accelerate recession over time.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco create a sticky plaque on teeth that is difficult to remove and significantly increases the risk of gum recession.
- Misaligned teeth or bite: When teeth are crooked or the bite is uneven, excessive force can be placed on certain areas of the gums and bone, causing localized recession.
- Lip or tongue piercings: Oral piercings can rub against and irritate the gum tissue, wearing it away over time.
Signs of Receding Gums
Because recession happens gradually, it is important to know the early warning signs so you can seek treatment before significant damage occurs:
- Teeth that appear longer than they used to
- A notch or groove you can feel at the gumline
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Visible tooth roots (which are typically a darker yellow colour)
- Spaces appearing between teeth at the gumline
- Teeth that feel loose or shift position
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
When to See a Dentist
If you notice any signs of gum recession, schedule an appointment at Redwater Dental Clinic as soon as possible. Early treatment is far more effective than waiting until the recession is advanced. Call us at 780-942-4691 if you notice tooth sensitivity that was not there before, teeth that appear longer, or any visible changes in your gumline. Regular dental checkups are also essential for catching recession early, as your dentist can measure gum attachment levels and identify recession before you notice symptoms at home.
Treatment Options
Treatment for receding gums depends on the severity of the recession and the underlying cause. At Redwater Dental Clinic, Dr. AJ and Dr. Khaleeq will thoroughly evaluate your gum health and recommend the most appropriate approach.
- Professional deep cleaning: For mild recession caused by gum disease, scaling and root planing removes bacteria and tartar below the gumline, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the tooth surface.
- Desensitizing agents and bonding: Exposed root surfaces can be treated with fluoride varnishes or bonding agents to reduce sensitivity and protect against decay.
- Gum graft surgery: For more advanced recession, tissue can be taken from the roof of your mouth or from donor tissue and grafted onto the receded area. This covers exposed roots and restores the gumline.
- Pinhole surgical technique: A minimally invasive alternative to grafting where the gum tissue is loosened through a tiny hole and repositioned over the exposed root.
- Custom night guard: If bruxism is contributing to your recession, a custom night guard protects your teeth and gums from grinding forces while you sleep.
- Orthodontic treatment: Correcting misaligned teeth can redistribute biting forces more evenly and reduce the risk of further recession.
Prevention is always the best approach. We will help you develop a gentle brushing technique, choose the right dental products, and maintain a regular cleaning schedule to keep your gums healthy for life.
