Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away. When the gums recede, it leaves the teeth roots exposed, making them more vulnerable to infection.
There are several risks associated with gum recession, including increased tooth sensitivity, pain, tooth decay, and infection. Gum recession also carries an aesthetic component that might cause a person to become self-conscious.
Gum recession is the result of poor oral hygiene and can lead to a range of symptoms, including bad breath (halitosis), bleeding gums, swollen gums, tooth decay, tooth loss, and separation between the gums and teeth.
In this article, we will cover the six main causes of gum recession and what to do about it to improve your smile.
What Are the Main Causes of Gum Recession and How is it Treated?
When you have gum recession, getting treatment is essential to address the underlying causes and prevent further damage. There is a wide variety of treatments, and the most appropriate one for you depends on your unique circumstances and preferences.
Here are some of the most common causes of gum recession and the relevant treatment options.
1. Poor oral hygiene
Inadequate oral hygiene practices, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, can lead to the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth. This can increase the risk of gum disease (gingivitis) and periodontal disease, both of which are characterized by gum recession.
Maintaining a great oral hygiene routine is crucial for preventing further gum recession, and this includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular check-ups at your local dental surgery.
2. Periodontal disease
One of the leading causes of gum recession is periodontal disease, a condition that results from the build-up of tartar and plaque along the gum line.
Bacterial plaques can irritate the gum tissue, causing inflammation, gum recession, and the breakdown of the teeth’s supporting structures.
If periodontal disease is the cause of your gum recession, your dentist may use specialized tools to clean your teeth and gums. They may also use antibacterial therapy to reduce infection risks and prevent further gum recession.
In the case of severe gum recession, your dentist might offer exposed tooth root treatment that usually includes scaling and root planning to clean the tooth roots and promote gum attachment.
3. Hormonal changes
During puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, there are significant hormonal changes occurring in the body. These hormonal fluctuations can cause your gums to become more sensitive and prone to recession.
There is little that you can do to stop major hormonal changes, and they are a natural part of life. However, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential during times of significant hormonal change to minimize the risk of gum disease and periodontal disease, as is visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.
4. Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Chronic teeth grinding (known as bruxism) affects around 8-10% of the population and can cause the teeth to flex. As they do so, they wear away the gums and cause them to recede. Similarly, clenching the teeth together can lead to gum recession.
If you deal with bruxism, you might find that wearing a retainer or mouth guard is helpful for preventing you from grinding your teeth together. You might need this at all hours or only during the nighttime, depending on when you’re most affected by bruxism.
Anxiety is one of the leading causes of bruxism, so psychotherapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, might also be helpful in addressing the underlying cause of your teeth-grinding habits.
5. Misaligned teeth
Malocclusion or misaligned teeth can place extra stress on the gums, increasing the risk of gum recession. In this case, realignment of the teeth is a suitable treatment.
A dental specialist, known as an orthodontist, may aid tooth realignment with metal braces, clear braces, or aligners. This treatment can take several months or even a couple of years to complete but will lead to long-term results.
You may need to wear a retainer or aligner after getting your braces removed to ensure the teeth don’t move back to their original misaligned positions.
6. Genetic predisposition
Research suggests that some individuals may be more prone to developing gum recession due to their genetic composition. Those with a family history of gum recession, gum disease, or periodontal disease may have an increased risk of experiencing oral health issues themselves.
With that being said, you can still control your oral health with positive lifestyle habits. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss, use mouthwash after brushing, and attend your dental appointments to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
John is a freelance writer with a double major in English and Economics. He writes frequently about entrepreneurship, technology, business and education, with an emphasis on personal and professional growth.
