Receding gums: why it happens and how it can be treated

Have you noticed that your teeth seem longer than before? Do you feel discomfort when drinking cold beverages, or do you see that your gums have receded, exposing part of the tooth that was previously covered?

These changes may be signs of a gum recession, an oral health problem that should be assessed to identify its cause and prevent it from progressing.

Although many people associate receding gums exclusively with age, there are several factors that can cause them, from overly aggressive brushing to periodontal disease.

At MIDSA Dentistry, your dental clinic in Valencia, we know that detecting these changes early is important for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. That's why we'll explain how to recognize gingival recession, what consequences it can have, and what treatments can help.

What are receding gums?

Gingival recession occurs when the gum margin moves away, exposing more of the tooth or its root surface.

In healthy conditions, the gums protect the tissues that surround and support the teeth. When they recede, the root can become partially exposed, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and increase the risk of root caries.

Tooth recession can affect a single tooth or several teeth. Furthermore, it doesn't always cause pain, so it sometimes goes unnoticed until the changes become visible.

It is important to keep in mind that Having receding gums does not necessarily mean suffering from periodontitis. To determine the origin of the problem, a clinical examination is necessary.

What are the causes of receding gums?

There is no single cause. In many cases, several factors are involved, which must be assessed individually.

1. Brushing your teeth too hard

Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can traumatize gum tissue and contribute to gum recession.

To care for your gums, it is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush and make gentle movements, without applying excessive pressure.

2. Periodontitis or periodontal disease

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the tissues supporting the teeth, including the bone. As it progresses, it can lead to loss of tooth support and gum recession.

Some signs that should prompt you to consult a professional include bleeding when brushing, inflammation, persistent bad breath, or tooth mobility.

However, the absence of bleeding does not completely rule out periodontal disease.

3. Thin gums and individual predisposition

Some people have thinner gum tissue or tooth anatomy that makes them more susceptible to recession.

In these cases, certain areas may require special monitoring, especially if combined with other risk factors.

4. Tooth position

The position of the teeth and the characteristics of the surrounding bone can influence the risk of gingival recession.

Therefore, if you notice changes in your gums, it is important to assess both their condition and your tooth position and bite.

5. Tobacco and other risk factors

Tobacco increases the risk of periodontal disease and can hinder the response to treatment.

Poorly controlled diabetes and other individual factors can also affect gum health. A professional assessment can identify which aspects need to be monitored in each case.

How can you tell if you have receding gums?

There are several signs that can help you detect possible gingival recession:

• The teeth appear longer: A larger tooth surface area than usual is noticeable.
• Discomfort appears with cold or heat: Exposure of the root can promote sensitivity.
• Small yellowish areas are observed near the gum: They could correspond to the exposed root, although this needs to be confirmed.
• There are changes in the contour of the gums: The gum line appears higher on certain teeth.
• Bleeding or inflammation appears: may indicate an associated gum disease.

If you notice one or more of these changes, it's advisable to schedule a dental checkup. You don't need to wait until pain develops to seek medical advice.

Do receding gums grow back?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions.

Gum that has been lost due to recession does not usually grow back spontaneously. Improving hygiene and eliminating the factors that cause the problem can help prevent it from progressing, but it does not mean that the lost tissue will recover on its own.

In certain cases, periodontal plastic surgery techniques allow for partial or complete coverage of the exposed root. The outcome depends on factors such as the type of defect, the amount of available tissue, and the condition of the tissues surrounding the tooth.

Therefore, the first step should always be to understand the cause of the retraction and assess what treatment goal is realistic for each patient.

What treatments are available for receding gums?

The treatment depends on the origin of the problem, its extent, and the discomfort it causes.

Control of the cause and improvement of hygiene

When gum recession is related to traumatic brushing, the professional can teach you a gentler technique and recommend the most suitable hygiene products.

If there is a buildup of plaque or tartar, professional cleaning may be necessary.

Periodontal treatment

When recession is associated with periodontitis, it is essential to control the disease and stabilize the tissues that support the teeth.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include scaling and root planing, specific hygiene instructions, and regular periodontal checkups.

This treatment helps control the disease, but it does not guarantee that the lost gum will return to its original position.

Treatment for tooth sensitivity

If the exposed root causes discomfort, the dentist may recommend desensitizing pastes or other professional measures to reduce sensitivity.

Before treating it, it is advisable to rule out other causes of pain, such as cavities or dental cracks.

Gum graft surgery

In certain cases, periodontal surgery may be considered to cover the exposed root and improve tissue protection or gingival aesthetics.

One of the options is tissue grafting, which can be obtained from the patient themselves or other sources depending on the technique indicated.

Not all retractions require surgery. The decision depends on the examination, the patient's needs, and the likelihood of achieving a stable result.

Can receding gums be prevented?

Although not all gum recession can be prevented, there are measures that help protect gum health:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle technique.
• Clean the spaces between your teeth daily with dental floss or suitable interdental brushes.
• Avoid tobacco.
• Do not ignore bleeding, swelling, or changes in the position of the gums.
• Attend your dental and periodontal check-ups as frequently as your professional recommends.
• If you notice sensitivity or changes in the gum contour, request an evaluation before the problem progresses.

Prevention is not just about brushing more, but about doing it correctly and detecting problems early.

When should you go to the dentist?

It's advisable to make an appointment if you notice your gums receding, your teeth appearing longer, or persistent sensitivity developing.

If you also notice tooth mobility, significant swelling, or intense pain, it is especially important to seek professional attention without delay.

During the examination, the dentist will be able to assess the condition of the gums, measure any periodontal defects, and determine if X-rays or other tests are needed to study the bone support.

This diagnosis allows us to distinguish an isolated recession from a periodontal disease that requires treatment.

Treatment of receding gums in Valencia

At MIDSA Dentistry, in the L'Eixample neighborhood of Valencia, we study the health of your teeth and gums to identify the origin of any changes you may have noticed and guide you on the most appropriate options.

Our goal is to help you maintain a healthy mouth through personalized diagnosis, preventative measures, and a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

If you've noticed your teeth seem longer, you have root sensitivity, or you're worried about the condition of your gums, don't wait for more symptoms to appear.

Request an evaluation at MIDSA Dentistry and discover what options exist to care for your gums.

📍 Carrer de Salamanca, 52, ground floor, L'Eixample, Valencia.

📞 692 12 94 85

🌐 Request your appointment at MIDSA Dentistry

Frequently asked questions about receding gums

Are receding gums dangerous?

Not all tooth recession indicates a serious condition. However, it can expose the tooth root and be related to periodontal problems. An examination can determine its severity and the necessary treatment.

What happens if I don't treat receding gums?

If the underlying cause persists, the recession can progress. In some cases, sensitivity, the risk of root caries, or aesthetic problems increase. If periodontitis is present, the supporting structures of the teeth may also be compromised.

Can I recover lost gum tissue without surgery?

Proper hygiene and controlling the underlying cause can help slow the progression of gum disease, but they don't usually restore lost gum tissue. In certain cases, periodontal surgery may allow for covering the exposed root.

Can vigorous brushing cause gums to recede?

Yes. Overly aggressive brushing can contribute to retraction, especially if other predisposing factors are present. It's preferable to use a soft brush and proper technique.

Do receding gums cause tooth sensitivity?

This can occur because retraction can expose the root, an area more sensitive to thermal stimuli and contact. However, sensitivity can also have other causes that should be ruled out.

When should I have my gums checked in Valencia?

If you notice changes in your gum line, bleeding, persistent sensitivity, or teeth that appear longer, request an evaluation. Early diagnosis helps identify the cause and choose the most appropriate treatment.

Information note: This article has an educational purpose and does not replace an individualized examination or diagnosis.