I Suspect My Gums Are Receding

For many patients, treatments for gum recession can improve both their appearance and overall dental health. Gum recession can occur even in individuals with good oral hygiene. Fortunately, there are numerous options available to address receding gums.

At Urban Family Dental, we offer solutions for gum recession for patients in Charlotteand the surrounding area. Call us today at (704) 900-5445
to schedule an appointment and learn more.

Types of Crowns

Porcelain

Aesthetic crowns that are free of visible metals and are closely matched to your surrounding teeth.

Gold

Made from a gold alloy, these crowns withstand heavy biting and chewing pressure, making them ideal for
back teeth.

Porcelain Fused to Metal

A type of ceramic crown with a reinforced metal base underneath.

Signs of Gum Recession

For some patients, gum recession can develop gradually and go unnoticed for a while. The aesthetic changes are often the most noticeable, including visibly shrinking gums and exposed tooth roots. Other common symptoms may include:
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Bleeding after brushing or flossing
  • Loose teeth
  • Discomfort at the gum line
  • Red or swollen gums
Patients may feel worried about their appearance and fear losing their teeth. Additionally, they might experience heightened sensitivity to cold and heat due to the exposed tooth roots.
“The most noticeable effects of gum recession are the aesthetic changes it causes.”

Causes of Gum Recession

Several factors can lead to gum recession, regardless of a person’s oral hygiene. These include aggressive tooth brushing, body piercings, teeth clenching or grinding, crooked teeth or misaligned bites, hormonal changes, inadequate dental care, periodontal disease, and the use of tobacco products. Genetics can also play a role; for instance, parents may pass down weak or thin gums to their children.

Some patients may notice gum recession occurring only on one side of the mouth. This is often due to plaque buildup concentrated in that area, which can result from neglecting oral hygiene on one side. Excess plaque and bacteria at the gum line can release harmful substances that damage gum tissue. Additionally, a misaligned bite may lead to more wear and tear on one side of the mouth. Gum recession can also affect a single tooth due to similar reasons or as a result of physical trauma.

"Various factors can lead to gum recession, regardless of an individual's oral hygiene practices."

Treating Gum Recession

Gum recession can vary in severity, and in some cases, no treatment is necessary. However, for those who do require intervention, several treatment options are available:
  1. Composite Restoration: This involves using natural-looking, tooth-colored composite resins to cover the exposed surfaces of the tooth root, effectively closing any black gaps between teeth.
  2. Desensitizing Agents, Varnishes, and Dentin Bonding Agents: These treatments can help alleviate sensitivity in exposed tooth roots, making brushing more comfortable and promoting better oral hygiene.
  3. Orthodontics: Braces can provide a long-term solution by gradually repositioning teeth, which can help improve the gum line.
  4. Pink Porcelain or Composite: This material, matched to the color of the gums, can be applied to gaps to minimize the appearance of receded gums.
  5. Removable Gum Veneers: Typically made from acrylic or silicone, these can also be used to cover gaps caused by gum recession.
  6. Surgery: In more severe cases, surgical options, such as gum grafting, may be necessary to restore gum tissue.
Each of these options can be tailored to meet individual needs based on the severity of the gum recession.
"In some instances, gum recession is mild enough that treatment isn’t required."

Preventing Gum Recession

The best way to prevent gum recession is through proper dental care. This includes brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day and flossing daily. Regular dental visits—at least twice a year—are essential, especially for at-risk patients who may need more frequent check-ups. If a dentist detects early signs of gum recession, they may monitor the condition closely to prevent further progression.

Patients should also consider consulting their dentist for guidance on brushing techniques to avoid excessive force. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet and not smoking, can significantly reduce the risk of gum recession.

Untreated gum recession can lead to serious complications. Exposed tooth roots are more susceptible to decay, which may require costly and painful treatments. Additionally, sensitivity may increase, and the overall appearance of the smile can be affected. It’s also important to note that what may seem like gum recession could actually be an undiagnosed, worsening gum disease.

"Healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a well-balanced diet and avoiding smoking, can significantly reduce the risk of gum recession."

Factors That Increase the Risk of Gum Recession

Certain groups are more susceptible to gum recession. Age is a significant risk factor; nearly 90% of individuals over 65 report having receding gums in at least one tooth. Smokers and those who use tobacco products are also at a higher risk due to their increased likelihood of developing sticky plaque.

Genetic factors, such as having thin or weak gums, can further elevate the chances of recession. Additionally, individuals with diabetes may experience a higher incidence of gum recession, as the condition can diminish blood flow to the gums.

"Some populations may be more vulnerable to gum recession than others."

Questions Answered on This Page

What are the signs of gum recession?
What causes my gums to recede?
What steps can I take for receding gums?
How can I protect against gum recession?
Am I susceptible to receding gums?

Frequently Asked Questions

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Gum Disease Terminology

Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of periodontitis, involving inflammation of the tissue surrounding the teeth and pockets forming as well.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
Gingival flap surgery is a procedure in which the periodontist separates the gums from the teeth temporarily to reach the root of the tooth and nearby bone.
Periapical Cyst
A periapical cyst is a pathological cavity, roots of the teeth, that typically has epithelium in the lining and contains fluid or soft matter.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is a serious inflammation of the gingival tissues and the periodontal membrane of the teeth that causes pain and helps form deeper gingival sulcus.
Periodontal Ligament
Periodontal ligaments are a group of tissue fibers that help attach the tooth to the alveolar bone, which can sustain damage from gum disease or improper oral hygiene.
Periodontal Pocket
A periodontal pocket is a potential area of space, known as a gingival sulcus, which is deeper than normal and can contain bacteria that cause an infection.
Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery is the treatment of extreme levels of periodontal disease that can involve multiple techniques to remove the inflamed tissue and infection before it spreads.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical therapy that involves the removal of dental plaque in hard to reach places with patients who do not take proper care of their teeth.
Tartar
Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.