What Causes Gum Recession and How Is It Treated?

At Southcoast Dental, we provide comprehensive gum health and periodontal care for adults in Wareham, MA, serving patients east of Cape Cod. Treatment depends on the cause and severity, ranging from improved home care and professional cleanings to targeted periodontal procedures. If you have concerns about changes in your gumline, we invite you to schedule an evaluation to better understand your options.

This Article will address

• What gum recession is and why it matters
• Early signs that may indicate gum recession
• Common causes, including hygiene habits, brushing technique, gum disease, tobacco use, and genetics
• How dentists diagnose gum recession and determine treatment
• Dentist-led treatment options and prevention strategies
• Why patients choose Southcoast Dental for gum treatment in Wareham, MA

What Is Gum Recession, and Why Does It Matter?

Gum recession is the gradual loss or movement of gum tissue away from the tooth, which exposes the root surface. When roots are exposed, teeth are more vulnerable to sensitivity, root decay, and inflammation around the gumline. Over time, untreated recession can affect tooth stability and make daily cleaning more difficult. At Southcoast Dental, we take a prevention-first approach and focus on honest education so patients understand what is happening and why early care matters.

What Are the Early Signs of Gum Recession?

Early signs of gum recession can be subtle, which is why routine dental exams are important. Common signs include:

• Teeth that appear longer than before
• Sensitivity to cold, heat, or brushing
• Notches or grooves near the gumline
• An uneven or receding gumline
• Bleeding or inflammation, often associated with gum disease
• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
• Localized recession affecting a single tooth

If you notice any of these changes, an exam can help determine whether they are related to gum recession or another oral health concern.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession often develops due to a combination of factors rather than a single cause. Understanding these contributors allows for more effective prevention and treatment. Common causes include gum disease, oral hygiene habits, brushing technique, tobacco use, genetic factors, and bite-related stress.

Can Poor Oral Hygiene Lead to Gum Recession?

Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum recession by allowing plaque and bacteria to build up along the gumline. This buildup can lead to inflammation and gum disease, which may cause the gums to pull away from the teeth over time. Our team emphasizes education rather than blame, helping patients understand how consistent brushing, flossing, and professional care support long-term gum health.

Does Aggressive Brushing Cause Gum Recession?

Aggressive brushing can contribute to gum recession, especially when hard-bristled brushes or abrasive toothpaste are used. Excessive pressure and improper technique may wear away gum tissue and create localized recession. We often recommend gentle brushing with a soft-bristled brush and controlled motions to protect both enamel and gums.

How Does Gum Disease Cause Gum Recession?

Gum disease progresses from gingivitis, which involves inflammation and bleeding, to periodontitis, where deeper infection affects the supporting structures of the teeth. As bone support diminishes and pockets deepen, gum tissue can recede. Recession related to gum disease may not be painful, which is why professional evaluation is essential for early detection and management.

Can Tobacco Use Make Gums Recede?

Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease and can worsen gum recession. It affects blood flow to the gums, alters inflammation patterns, and reduces the body’s ability to heal. Patients who stop using tobacco often respond more favorably to periodontal treatment and experience better long-term outcomes.

Are Genetics a Risk Factor for Receding Gums?

Genetics can influence gum recession, particularly in individuals with naturally thin gum tissue or a family history of periodontal concerns. While genetics may increase susceptibility, recession is not inevitable. Preventive care, careful monitoring, and personalized hygiene recommendations can significantly reduce risk.

How Do Dentists Diagnose Gum Recession and Decide on Treatment?

Diagnosing gum recession involves a thorough exam that includes measuring gum levels, evaluating tissue type, and assessing root exposure. Dentists also consider inflammation, plaque levels, and contributing factors such as bite stress or grinding. Imaging may be used when additional detail is needed to guide treatment decisions.

How Technology Can Support More Accurate Evaluation

• Digital imaging to assess bone support when appropriate
• CBCT imaging for complex cases or implant planning contexts
• Visual tools that help patients understand measured findings and treatment options

How Is Gum Recession Treated by a Dentist?

Gum recession treatment follows a cause-first, severity-based approach. The goal is to stabilize gum health, protect exposed roots, and address contributing factors.

• Step 1, Treat the Cause and Stabilize the Gums
• Home care coaching and product recommendations
• Professional dental cleanings
• Scaling and root planing when periodontal infection is present
• Support and guidance for tobacco cessation when applicable
• Step 2, Protect Exposed Roots and Reduce Sensitivity
• Desensitizing agents or varnishes
• Targeted restorative options for vulnerable root surfaces
• Night guard considerations if grinding contributes to recession
• Step 3, When Periodontal Procedures May Be Recommended
• Soft tissue grafting to improve coverage and long-term protection
• Regenerative approaches in select cases
• Clear discussions about benefits, limitations, and recovery expectations

How Can Gum Recession Be Prevented?

Preventing gum recession focuses on consistency and early intervention:

• Gentle, effective daily hygiene
• Routine exams and professional cleanings
• Ongoing periodontal monitoring
• Addressing bite stress, grinding, and alignment factors when relevant

Why Choose Southcoast Dental for Your Gum Treatment?

Patients choose Southcoast Dental because our care is led by Dr. James Kiehl and guided by education, honesty, and collaboration. We provide periodontal-focused evaluations and treatment planning tailored to each patient’s needs. Our practice uses modern diagnostic tools to support comfort and clarity, including CBCT imaging when appropriate. 

With convenient weekday availability and a team known for clear communication and prompt service, we focus on helping adults make informed decisions about their gum health.

Schedule your Dental Consultation in Wareham, MA

Understanding what causes gum recession and how it is treated can help you take proactive steps toward protecting your oral health. At Southcoast Dental in Wareham, MA, we work closely with patients east of Cape Cod to provide personalized evaluations and thoughtful treatment plans. 

If you are concerned about changes in your gums, we invite you to call or request an appointment to schedule a gum health evaluation and recession screening.

Sources

• Cigna Knowledge Center. Receding Gums.
• Cleveland Clinic. Gum Recession.
• American Dental Association. Gum Disease and Periodontal Health.