Noticing changes in your gums can be worrying. Whether you’ve experienced sensitivity, discomfort, or visible differences in your gumline, it’s natural to feel concerned about what it might mean for your oral health. Many people searching for answers about signs of gum recession are trying to understand what’s happening and, most importantly, what they can do to address it.
In this article, we’ll explore what gum recession is, how to spot the signs of gum recession, and what might be causing it. We’ll also share actionable tips for managing discomfort and preventing further gum loss, ensuring you feel confident in taking care of your oral health. If you’re unsure of where to start, don’t worry – we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.
What Are the Signs of Gum Recession?
If you’re wondering whether you’re experiencing gum recession, knowing the key signs can help you identify the issue early and seek appropriate care.
Tooth Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks is a common symptom. When gums recede, the protective layer of enamel no longer covers the tooth root, leaving it vulnerable. This sensitivity can make everyday activities, like eating or drinking, uncomfortable.
Longer-Looking Teeth
One of the most noticeable signs of gum recession is that your teeth may appear longer than usual. This occurs because the gum tissue is receding, revealing more of the tooth surface or even the root. This change can happen gradually, making it difficult to notice until the recession becomes significant.
Notches or Indentations at the Gum Line
Run your tongue or finger along the gum line. If you feel small notches or indentations where the gum meets the tooth, this could indicate gum recession. These notches result from the exposure of the softer root surface, which is more prone to wear and damage.
Red, Swollen Gums
Although the signs of gum recession typically reveal more of the tooth, it often comes with inflammation in the surrounding tissue. Redness, swelling, or tenderness along the gum line can signal an underlying issue, such as gum disease, which is one of the leading causes of recession.
Bad Breath or a Bad Taste in the Mouth
Exposed tooth roots and gum pockets created by recession can harbour bacteria. This buildup may lead to persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste, even after brushing.
Why Do The Signs of Gum Recession Occur?
Signs of Gum recession occur, when the gums expose the root of the tooth, which lacks the protective enamel found on the crown. This exposure makes the tooth more susceptible to sensitivity, decay, and damage. Additionally, inflammation or poor oral hygiene can worsen these symptoms by encouraging bacteria to accumulate along the gumline, exacerbating the recession.
Causes of Gum Recession
Signs of gum recession doesn’t happen overnight, and pinpointing the cause can feel overwhelming. You may be wondering, “Why are my gums pulling back?” or “Am I doing something wrong?” The truth is, gum recession can result from a combination of factors, many of which might be part of your daily routine without you realising it. Identifying these causes can help you address the problem head-on and prevent further damage.
Aggressive Brushing and Hard Toothbrush Use
Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can wear away gum tissue over time. While thorough brushing is essential for good oral hygiene, it’s important to be gentle. Over-brushing can irritate the gums and cause them to pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and practising gentle brushing techniques to clean teeth without damaging the gums, or investing in an electric toothbrush.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of gum recession. This condition occurs when plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline, leading to inflammation, infection, and eventual damage to gum tissue. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, which can result in significant gum loss and even tooth loss.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential to prevent any signs of gum recession or gum disease from advancing.
Genetics and Age
Genetics play a significant role in gum health. Some individuals are predisposed to thinner or more delicate gum tissue, which is more prone to recession. Additionally, as we age, our gums naturally begin to recede, making gum recession more common in older adults.
While genetics can’t be controlled, we suggest adopting excellent oral hygiene habits and seeking early treatment for any gum issues to minimise the impact.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque and tartar to accumulate along the gumline. This buildup can lead to gum irritation, infection, and eventual tissue loss. Neglecting oral hygiene may also worsen other conditions that contribute to more signs of gum recession, such as gum disease.
We suggest brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep your gums healthy and free of harmful bacteria.
Misaligned Teeth and Grinding
Misaligned teeth can put uneven pressure on the gums, leading to recession in certain areas. Similarly, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) can cause excessive force on the gums, resulting in damage and gum loss over time.
If you suspect grinding or misalignment, consult with a dental professional about potential treatments, such as orthodontics or custom mouthguards.
How to Relieve Pain & Sensitivity from Gum Recession
Living with the discomfort of gum recession can be challenging. Whether it’s the sharp sting of cold drinks or the dull ache after brushing, sensitivity caused by receding gums can affect your daily life. Thankfully, there are practical ways to ease the discomfort and protect your teeth and gums from further irritation, if you find yourself showing signs of gum recession.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures in Food and Drinks
Hot soups, iced beverages, and other extreme temperatures can trigger sensitivity in exposed tooth roots. If you’re struggling with sensitive teeth from receding gums, opt for lukewarm foods and drinks to minimise discomfort.
We suggest keeping a mental note of foods and beverages that cause sensitivity and adjusting your diet accordingly.
Use Desensitising Toothpaste
Desensitising toothpaste is specifically designed to help reduce tooth sensitivity. These toothpastes often contain active ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which block nerve signals in exposed tooth roots, providing relief over time.
We recommend using desensitising toothpaste regularly for at least a few weeks to notice a significant reduction in sensitivity. Pair this with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further gum irritation.
Rinse with Saltwater
Saltwater rinses are a simple, effective home remedy for relieving pain and reducing inflammation in the gums. The natural antibacterial properties of salt can help soothe irritated tissue and keep harmful bacteria at bay.
How to use it:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds.
- Spit it out and repeat twice daily for best results.
Apply Topical Fluoride or Varnishes
Professional fluoride treatments, such as varnishes or gels applied by your dentist, can help strengthen your teeth and reduce sensitivity. These treatments create a protective layer over the exposed tooth root, making it less reactive to stimuli like cold or heat.
Ask your dentist about topical fluoride options during your next visit, especially if sensitivity is interfering with your daily life.
Consider Dental Sealants or Bonding
For more severe cases, dental bonding or sealants may be recommended by your dentist. These treatments involve applying a protective coating or tooth-coloured resin to the exposed root, shielding it from further damage and reducing sensitivity.
If you feel like this is something you would like to consider, then we recommend consulting your dentist to determine if this solution is appropriate for your condition.
When to See a Dentist
If home remedies and over-the-counter solutions aren’t providing relief, it’s time to seek professional dental advice. Persistent sensitivity and pain from receding gums could indicate an underlying issue, such as gum disease or an infection, that needs immediate attention.
Treatment Options for Gum Recession
When the signs of gum recession progresses, finding the right treatment can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or looking to restore your smile, there are both non-surgical and surgical options that can help. The treatment your dentist recommends will depend on the severity of your gum recession and its underlying causes.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Gum Recession
If the signs of gum recession is detected early, non-surgical methods can often be effective in managing the condition and preventing it from worsening. These treatments focus on improving gum health, reducing discomfort, and protecting the exposed tooth root.
1. Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
Deep cleaning is one of the most common approaches for addressing signs of gum recession caused by plaque and tartar buildup. This process involves scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, and root planing, which smooths the tooth root to prevent further bacteria accumulation.
What to Expect: The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. You might experience mild soreness for a few days, but this will subside as your gums begin to heal.
2. Antibiotics or Antimicrobial Rinses
When gum recession is accompanied by gum disease or infection, dentists may prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses to reduce bacteria and inflammation. These treatments help create a healthier environment for your gums and can support other procedures, like deep cleaning.
We recommend using these rinses as directed by your dentist to ensure optimal results.
3. Dental Bonding
For cases where exposed tooth roots are causing sensitivity or aesthetic concerns, dental bonding can provide relief. This process involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to cover the exposed root, reducing sensitivity and restoring the natural appearance of your teeth.
What to Expect: Bonding is a quick, non-invasive procedure. The results are immediate, although the bonding material may require replacement after several years.
Surgical Treatments for Gum Recession
In more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged gum tissue and protect your teeth. These procedures are performed by a periodontist (gum specialist) and are designed to restore gum health and prevent further signs of gum recession.
1. Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is the most common surgical treatment for gum recession. It involves taking healthy tissue from another part of your mouth (often the roof of the mouth) or using donor tissue to cover exposed roots and rebuild the gumline.
What to Expect: The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia. Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks, during which you’ll need to follow a soft-food diet and avoid irritating the area.
2. Flap Surgery
Flap surgery is used to remove bacteria and tartar deep beneath the gums that aren’t accessible through regular cleanings. During the procedure, the gums are lifted, the area is thoroughly cleaned, and the tissue is sutured back in place.
What to Expect: While more invasive than gum grafting, flap surgery is effective at addressing severe gum recession. Healing time is similar to gum grafting, with specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist.
Aftercare and Recovery
Regardless of the treatment option, proper aftercare is essential for healing and maintaining results. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions, which may include:
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods.
- Using prescribed rinses to prevent infection.
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
We recommend following these guidelines closely to support the healing process and ensure long-term success.
Recognising the signs of gum recession early can make all the difference in protecting your oral health and preventing more serious issues down the road. By understanding the causes, seeking appropriate treatment, and adopting preventative measures, you can take control of your gum health and minimise discomfort.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like sensitivity, pain, or visible changes in your gumline, we recommend reaching out to a dental professional as soon as possible. The sooner you address the issue, the better your chances of avoiding more invasive treatments.
For those in need of immediate dental services, the247dentist are here to help. Our clinics are located across the country, making it convenient for you to find an emergency dental clinic near you. Or simply book an online consultation from the comfort of your own home.
In many cases, we can even arrange same-day appointments to ensure you receive the care you need without delay. Don’t let gum recession or dental pain wait—contact us today and take the first step towards healthier gums and a confident smile.