You may have brushed your teeth this morning and noticed something off—your teeth looked a little longer than usual, or your gums didn’t quite hug your teeth the way they used to. It’s easy to dismiss as normal ageing or brushing a little too hard, but that small change could be the beginning of something much bigger: gum recession.
Often overlooked and commonly misunderstood, gum recession is more than just a cosmetic concern. It can leave your teeth sensitive, your roots exposed, and your oral health vulnerable. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know—what causes it, what signs to look out for, and most importantly, what you can do about it.
What Is Gum Recession and What’s Really Going On?
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It’s a progressive condition, meaning it gets worse over time if not treated. When gums recede, small gaps or “pockets” form between the teeth and gum line, allowing bacteria to build up. If left untreated, this can damage the bone structure supporting your teeth and may lead to tooth loss.
This issue doesn’t just affect older adults—it can occur at any age due to a range of underlying causes.
What Are the Main Causes of Receding Gums?
There’s no single reason gums recede. Instead, it’s usually a mix of lifestyle habits and health factors:
- Aggressive Brushing – Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush wears away gum tissue.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Plaque and tartar build-up can lead to gum disease, the leading cause of gum recession.
- Periodontal Disease – This includes infections and inflammation that destroy gum tissue and bone.
- Teeth Grinding or Clenching – Repetitive pressure can push gums away from the tooth.
- Tobacco Use – Smoking or chewing tobacco can impair blood flow and gum healing.
- Genetics – Some people are more prone to gum issues due to inherited traits.
- Crooked Teeth or Misaligned Bites – Uneven pressure can strain certain areas of the gum line.
- Hormonal Changes – Especially in women, hormonal shifts can make gums more sensitive.
- Oral Piercings – Jewellery rubbing against the gums can cause tissue erosion.
What Are the Warning Signs of Gum Recession?
Gum recession can sneak up on you without much warning, especially in the early stages. Be alert to these common signs:
- Sensitive teeth when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Teeth that appear longer than normal
- A visible notch near the gum line
- Swollen or bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose-feeling teeth
Even one of these symptoms can signal gum tissue loss, and early detection is crucial.
What Are the Most Common Causes and Can They Be Prevented?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of leading causes of gum recession and whether you can avoid them:
| Cause | Description | Can It Be Prevented? |
| Aggressive Brushing | Overbrushing or using hard-bristled brushes | Yes |
| Gum Disease | Bacterial infection from plaque and tartar | Often |
| Smoking | Reduces blood flow, affecting gum health | Yes |
| Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) | Puts pressure on teeth and gums | Yes (with nightguard) |
| Genetics | Inherited gum traits, like thin gum tissue | No, but can be managed |
| Misaligned Bite | Pressure points on gums due to poor alignment | Sometimes |
What Treatment Options Are Available?
The good news? Gum recession can be managed, especially when caught early. Treatment options range from at-home changes to in-clinic procedures:
- Oral Hygiene Education – Learning proper brushing and flossing techniques is essential to prevent further recession.
- Desensitising Products – These help ease tooth sensitivity in cases of minor gum recession.
- Scaling and Root Planing – A deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gums.
- Gum Graft Surgery – Soft tissue from another part of the mouth is grafted over the exposed root area.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique – A minimally invasive option that repositions existing gum tissue.
- Laser Therapy – This removes infected tissue and promotes healing without cutting.
Which Treatments Suit Different Levels of Gum Recession?
To help clarify which options are suitable for various cases:
| Treatment Option | Best For | Invasive? | Recovery Time |
| Improved Oral Hygiene | Mild, early-stage gum recession | No | Immediate |
| Scaling and Root Planing | Moderate gum inflammation | Mild | 1–2 days |
| Desensitising Agents | Sensitivity due to exposed roots | No | Ongoing |
| Gum Graft Surgery | Severe tissue loss | Yes | 1–2 weeks |
| Pinhole Technique | Cosmetic and moderate gum coverage | Moderate | Few days |
| Laser Treatment | Bacterial removal and healing | Mild | Short recovery |
What Can You Do to Prevent Gum Recession?
Prevention is your strongest defence. Try these proven strategies:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions
- Avoid tobacco products altogether
- Keep up with regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings
- Address bruxism (teeth grinding) with a custom mouthguard
- Eat a diet rich in nutrients like vitamin C and calcium
- Don’t ignore bleeding gums—they’re not normal
Taking these steps early helps you maintain healthy gum levels and prevent worsening symptoms.
Why Choose Ferny Hills Dental for Gum Health?
When it comes to treating and preventing gum recession, experience matters. At Ferny Hills Dental, we’re committed to protecting your oral health with modern, gentle techniques that get results. Our friendly team takes the time to assess your unique needs and tailor treatments that work for you—whether that’s a professional deep clean, laser therapy, or soft tissue management.
From early intervention to advanced care, we ensure your gum health is never ignored. Book a consultation today and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile—right here in Ferny Hills.
Important FAQs
Q1: Can receding gums grow back naturally?
No, once gum tissue is lost, it doesn’t grow back naturally. However, procedures like grafting can restore the gum line.
Q2: Are receding gums always painful?
Not always. Some people don’t feel pain until the condition becomes more advanced or teeth become sensitive.
Q3: How often should I see a dentist if I have gum recession?
You should visit your dentist every 6 months, or more frequently if you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal issues.
Q4: Is gum graft surgery painful?
It is typically performed under local anaesthetic, and most patients experience only mild discomfort during recovery.
Q5: Can gum recession lead to tooth loss?
Yes, if left untreated, it can expose roots and lead to bone loss, increasing the risk of tooth mobility or loss.
Q6: Can braces or aligners cause gum recession?
If poorly managed, orthodontic pressure can contribute to gum recession. An Emergency dentist will monitor your gum health throughout treatment.