Clove Dental Blog

Receding Gums: Types, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments for Gum Recession

Written by Clove Dental Team | Jun 28, 2023 1:39:10 AM

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue around the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or root. It can be caused by factors like gum disease, aggressive brushing, or teeth grinding. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help protect your teeth and prevent further damage.

Key Takeaways

  • Root of the teeth is exposed and may raise sensitivity due to gum recession.
  • Common causes include gum disease, brushing habits and teeth grinding.
  • The initial symptoms are minor and can be overlooked.
  • The possible treatment is improved hygiene up to surgical work.
  • At Clove dental, the issue can be prevented by a quick visit to the clinic in Encino.

You might not notice gum recession right away. It starts slowly, maybe your teeth look a little longer than before, or you feel slight sensitivity when eating something cold.

At Clove Dental, we have got numerous clients who are unaware of what is happening to them until the gum has reached a deeper stage. The gimmick is that gum recession is not very sharp and does not necessarily cause pain at the onset.

That is why being able to notice the signs, to know when it is time to take action, can create a significant change in maintaining your teeth and overall oral health in the best condition ever.

What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface or even the root.

Whenever that occurs, small spaces may develop between the teeth and the gum allowing bacteria to establish camps. In the long run you might find yourself with sensitivity, rotting or even broken teeth in case you fail to treat it.

Types of Gum Recession

Gum recession may be different according to the extent of lost gum tissue.

Mild Gum Recession
Only a little of the root is then exposed. Even you will not notice something.

Moderate Gum Recession
A larger portion of the root is exposed and the sensitivity can begin to spike. You can feel your teeth shifting on you.

Severe Gum Recession
Worse still, much of the root is showing. That is uncomfortable, increases the risk of deterioration and even causes your teeth to feel weak.

Common Causes of Receding Gums

Gums may begin to recede because of a number of reasons.

The usual suspects are:

  • Gum disease (periodontal disease)
  • Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush.
  • Teeth grinding or clenching.
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Misaligned teeth or bite issues.
  • Genetic factors

In Clove Dental, it has been common to find that a number of factors are in play simultaneously.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Recession

Receding of the gum does not necessarily grind out pain, but here are some of the indications to watch:

  • Teeth appearing longer than usual.
  • Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold.
  • Visible roots of the teeth.
  • Notches near the gumline.
  • Red or inflamed gums.

If any of this catches your eye, better to swing by a dentist in Encino for a quick check.

Why Gum Recession Should Not Be Ignored

Gum recession is easy to overlook, particularly when it is not causing pain at this particular moment.

But in the long run bare roots are more susceptible to deterioration and damage. The gum recession may also escalate into gum disease and in case it becomes severe enough, may even cause dissimilarity in the stability of your teeth.

The sooner it is stopped, the more serious issues would not emerge.

How Is Gum Recession Diagnosed?

In Clove Dental, gum recession is observed at the routine check-ups.

We usually:

  • Look at the gumline
  • Assess depth of pockets between tooth and gum.
  • Examine inflammation or infection.
  • Take X‑rays if needed

That allows us to measure the extent to which things have deteriorated, and what sort of treatment may be required.

Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

There is no natural regrowth of gum tissue after it has been lost.

Nevertheless, we may prevent its development and save the teeth. Surgery is capable of restoring gum coverage in certain instances.

How to Prevent Gum Recession

After the recession of gums, the solution can be as simple as a few habits.

We usually tell patients to:

  • Rub with soft-bristled brush.
  • Floss every day
  • No grinding or night guard as required.
  • See your dentist every now and then.
  • Catch gum disease early

These will make your gums happier in the long run.

Conclusion

The recession of the gums is relatively normal but do not ignore it. It may be slow but when neglected it may cause larger problems with the teeth.

At Clove Dental, we specialize in the initial identification and individualized treatment of your teeth and gums. Seeing our dentist in Encino on a regular basis keeps you ahead of any trouble and helps you keep a bright, healthy smile.

FAQs

What are the early signs of receding gums?

Early signs include slight gum pulling, increased tooth sensitivity and teeth appearing longer than usual.

What causes gum recession in adults?

The common: periodontal disease, intrusive brushing, grinding, lack of hygiene and genetics.

Can receding gums grow back naturally?

No, the gum tissue does not regenerate itself. It can be prevented by treating and protecting the teeth.

What are the most effective treatments for gum recession?

Improved oral health, dental scaling and polishing, management of periodontal disease, and in severe situations, surgery such as a gum graft.