You’ve probably heard of receding gums or a receding gum line, but do you know what it means for your oral health? What causes gum recession? Can you stop receding gums once they start?
At Beavers & Broomfield Family Dentistry, we offer advanced treatments for gum disease and gum recession in Fayetteville, AR. Our goal is to help patients recognize early signs, protect their oral health, and avoid serious dental complications.
What Are Receding Gums?
Receding gums occur when gum tissue pulls away from its normal position near the crown of the tooth, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can create small gaps between the teeth and gums, allowing bacteria to collect and cause irritation or infection.
While gum disease is a leading cause of receding gums, it is not the only one. Many factors can contribute to gum recession, including brushing too hard or grinding your teeth while sleeping.
How Gum Recession Damages Teeth
Receding gums might start as a cosmetic concern, but they can also affect your long-term oral health if left untreated.
The crown, or upper part of your tooth, is protected by enamel. The root, however, does not have that same level of defense. It depends on your gums for protection. When gums recede, the tooth root becomes exposed and more vulnerable to decay and infection.
Over time, bacteria and acids can damage the root, leading to sensitivity, pain, and even infection that spreads to the gums and surrounding bone. If gum recession continues untreated, the tooth may loosen and eventually fall out.
That is why it is so important to address gum recession early and prevent additional tissue loss.
What Causes Receding Gums?
Although gum disease is one of the most common causes, gum recession can result from several other factors, including:
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism)
- Crooked teeth or bite alignment issues
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Genetics and family history of gum disease
- Poor oral hygiene habits
Some medications can also cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of gum disease and gum recession. Gums can naturally recede over time due to years of wear and brushing, which is why older adults are more prone to gum problems.
Learn more about how to keep your teeth and gums healthy as you age.
Early Signs of Gum Recession
The early signs of receding gums can be subtle. Watch for changes like:
- Tooth sensitivity, especially to cold or touch
- Teeth that appear longer than before
- “Black triangles” between the front teeth
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Floss catching more easily at the gumline
- Gums appearing flatter or thinner
If you notice these signs, schedule an exam soon. Early treatment can prevent more serious gum and bone damage.
What Happens Without Gum Recession Treatment
If gum recession goes untreated, the exposed roots are more likely to develop decay or infection. In severe cases, this may even lead to the need for a root canal or cause irreversible bone loss.
The jawbone helps hold your teeth firmly in place. When gum disease or decay affects the roots, the bone may start to deteriorate, leading to loose teeth or eventual tooth loss. Bone loss can also make it harder to replace missing teeth with dental implants later on.
For more on gum health and prevention, visit our post on how to help heal your gums and protect your smile.
How Your Dentist Can Help Receding Gums
The good news is that gum recession can often be managed with simple, effective treatments.
During your regular checkups, your dentist monitors gum health closely. If we notice early signs of gum recession, we may recommend:
1. Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
This treatment removes plaque and tartar below the gum line, giving your gums a clean, healthy foundation to heal. We may also apply a fluoride varnish to help protect teeth and roots from further decay.
2. Nightguards for Bruxism
If grinding or clenching your teeth contributes to gum recession, a nightguard can help protect against damage. You can have one custom-made at our office or purchase a “boil and bite” guard from a local pharmacy. As the name suggests, you boil the guard to soften it, then bite down to mold it around your teeth before wearing it during sleep.
3. Gum Grafting
In more advanced cases, a gum graft may be needed to restore lost tissue. This surgical procedure uses a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth, another gum area, or a donor source to cover exposed roots and strengthen gum support.
The sooner we identify and treat gum recession, the easier it is to prevent further damage and protect your natural smile.
Preventing Gum Recession
While some causes, such as genetics, cannot be prevented, many are within your control. Here’s how to help keep your gums strong and healthy:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brush gently at a 45-degree angle
- Floss daily, reaching slightly below the gum line
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Avoid tobacco use, which can cause gum disease
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams
Gum Dental Health in Fayetteville, AR
Receding gums can be an early sign of gum disease, aggressive brushing, or teeth grinding, but the good news is that most cases are treatable when caught early.
At Beavers & Broomfield Family Dentistry, we focus on prevention, early detection, and gentle care to protect both your teeth and your gums.
If you are concerned about gum recession in Fayetteville, AR, schedule an appointment with our team today. We will help you restore your gum health and keep your smile strong.
Frequently Asked Questions About Receding Gums
What is the main cause of receding gums?
The most common cause is gum disease (periodontal disease), but other factors like brushing too hard, teeth grinding, or genetics can also lead to gum recession.
Can receding gums grow back naturally?
Gum tissue does not grow back once it has receded. However, your dentist can stop further damage and restore protection with treatments such as deep cleaning or gum grafting.
How do I stop my gums from receding?
Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly. Address grinding with a nightguard and treat gum disease early to prevent further recession.
Is gum graft surgery painful?
Gum grafts are performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
When should I see a dentist about receding gums?
If you notice tooth sensitivity, longer-looking teeth, or bleeding gums, it is best to schedule an exam right away to prevent further gum loss or bone damage.
