Understanding Gum Recession: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

When we think about oral health, we often focus on teeth—but healthy gums are just as important for protecting your smile.
Gum recession—the gradual loss of gum tissue—can lead to exposed tooth roots, increased sensitivity, and even tooth loss if left untreated.

At Calleros Dental, we help patients catch gum recession early and treat it effectively. Here’s what you should know:

What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession (also known as gingival recession) happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth begins to pull back, exposing more of the tooth—or even the tooth root.
It’s most common in adults over 40, but it can start much earlier, even during the teenage years.

Early-stage gum recession is often hard to detect without regular dental checkups, because it usually progresses slowly and without obvious symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Recession

Watch for these common warning signs:

• Sensitive Teeth:
  Exposed roots make teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet foods or drinks.

• Visible Tooth Roots:
  As gums recede, you may start to see the roots of your teeth.

• Longer-Looking Teeth:
  Teeth may appear longer because the gum tissue has pulled away—not because the teeth have grown.

• Bad Breath, Bleeding, and Swelling:
  These symptoms may indicate gingivitis or periodontal disease, both of which can contribute to gum recession.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession can have several causes, and understanding the root problem is the first step toward effective treatment.
Common causes include:

• Overaggressive Brushing:
  Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away enamel and irritate gum tissue.

• Poor Oral Hygiene:
  Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and bacteria to build up, leading to infection and gum tissue loss.

• Chewing Tobacco:
  Tobacco use irritates and damages the gum lining, accelerating recession over time.

• Periodontal Disease:
  Gum disease caused by bacteria or systemic conditions like diabetes can quickly destroy gum and bone tissue, leading to recession and, eventually, tooth loss.

How Is Gum Recession Treated?

Treatment for gum recession depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition.
At Calleros Dental, we focus on addressing the source of the problem first:

• Gentler Oral Hygiene Habits:
  If aggressive brushing is the issue, we’ll recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentler technique.

• Professional Dental Cleaning:
  For cases caused by poor hygiene, a thorough cleaning—or scaling and root planing for more severe buildup—can remove bacteria and promote gum healing.

• Gum Tissue Regeneration or Grafting:
  In advanced cases, procedures like gum grafting can restore lost gum tissue, protect the tooth roots, and improve the smile’s appearance.

Protect Your Smile from Gum Recession

Gum recession doesn’t just affect the way your smile looks—it impacts your overall oral health.
The good news? With early detection and the right care, you can stop gum recession from progressing and restore the health of your gums.

If you have concerns about gum recession, gum disease, or periodontal treatments, talk to Dr. Calleros, Dr. Castillo, or your Calleros Dental hygienist.
We’re here to help you protect your smile for life.