What Causes Gums to Recede?

When you look at your smile in the mirror, do your teeth appear larger than they used to be? You may not be imagining the change. Teeth don’t grow larger over time. Instead, it can be an illusion caused by gum loss. If your gingival tissue doesn’t sit as high as it used to, your teeth can look bigger. Gum recession isn’t anything to ignore. Here are the most common causes of receding gums and what can be done to restore a healthy smile.

What Happens When Gums Recede?

Your gums are important for a healthy mouth because they protect your teeth and underlying bone. If the gingival tissue attached to your teeth recedes too much, your tooth roots will be exposed. This can cause less calcified cementum, which can increase your risk of sensitivity from exposed nerve endings. It can also lead to cavities and tooth loss.

Common Causes of Gum Recession

Gum recession can occur for many reasons, including;

• Poor Oral Health: Poor brushing and flossing habits can cause plaque and tartar buildup, which hosts bacteria that can cause gum disease. At least 50% of Americans have a form of the infection, making it a leading cause of tooth loss. Gum disease can also increase your risk of various health issues, like heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.
• Aggressive Brushing Habits: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush, over-brushing, and pushing too hard can damage your gums over time.
• Improper Flossing: Daily flossing is important for healthy gums when done correctly. Aggressive or improper flossing habits can injure your gums.
• Poor Tooth Positioning: Alignment problems can lead to gum damage.
• Untreated Bruxism: Grinding and clenching your teeth can cause enamel loss and gum recession.

Treating Gum Recession

Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine what’s causing the issue. They’ll create a personalized plan to restore your gum health, which may include:

• Gum Disease Therapy: Scaling and root planing remove tartar from above and below the gum line to treat gum disease.
• Gum Contouring: A soft tissue laser can treat gum disease, resolve a gummy smile, or sculpt the gum line.
• Gum Grafting: Tissue from another area of your mouth or a donor can be grafted over exposed tooth roots. 
• Orthodontics: Braces can fix bite and alignment issues to support healthy teeth and gums.
• Nightguard: A nightguard can provide a cushion between the upper and lower teeth to protect them from grinding.

The longer you wait to address the gum recession, the more damage you’ll suffer. Contact your dentist to stop the issue in its tracks to keep your mouth healthy.

About Dr. Travis A. Markle

Dr. Markle achieved his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and has regularly continued his training in various specialties. He is affiliated with the Academy of General Dentistry, the American College of Dentists, and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through his website or call (903) 419-4439.