Why Are My Gums Receding? Gum Recession
Glenview, IL
 Have you noticed that your teeth look a little longer than they used to, or that a tooth has become sensitive to cold drinks? These can be early signs of gum recession, a common condition that affects many adults. Because recession often develops slowly and without pain, it can go unnoticed for years. At Glen Perio, our periodontists, including Joshua Hassan DMD PLLC, help patients understand why their gums are receding and what can be done to protect their teeth, their comfort, and their smile.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away or pulls back, moving away from your teeth and exposing more of the tooth or even the tooth roots. Unlike the crown of a tooth, the roots are not covered by protective enamel. When roots are exposed, teeth can become sensitive, more vulnerable to decay, and less stable over time. Recession can also create small pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria easily collect.
Once gum tissue is lost, it does not grow back on its own, and the condition cannot reverse by itself. The good news is that with timely care, treatment can prevent gum recession from worsening, and in many cases the lost tissue can be restored.
Common Causes of Receding Gums and Gum Disease
There is rarely just one reason for gum recession. More often, several factors work together.
Some of the most common causes include:
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Periodontal Disease - Gum disease is a leading cause of recession. Plaque bacteria can infect the gums and damage gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth.
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Aggressive Brushing - Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can gradually wear away delicate gum tissue.
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Genetics - Some people naturally have thin or fragile gum tissue, making them more prone to recession regardless of how well they care for their teeth.
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Teeth Grinding and Clenching - Excessive force on the teeth can stress the supporting tissues and contribute to recession.
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Misaligned Teeth or Bite - Teeth that sit outside the normal arch or an uneven bite can place extra pressure on certain areas of the gums, though orthodontics can sometimes help by redistributing that pressure.
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Tobacco Use - Smoking and chewing tobacco reduce blood flow to the gums, lead to gum disease, and make healing harder.
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Hormonal Changes - Fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable.
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Lip or Tongue Piercings - Jewelry can rub against the gums and wear the tissue away over time.
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Inadequate Oral Hygiene - Poor oral hygiene allows plaque and tartar to build up, which can lead to gum disease and recession. |
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Because gum recession usually progresses gradually, and early periodontal disease can begin with gum inflammation before recession becomes obvious, it helps to know what to look for.
You may be experiencing recession or other gum problems if you notice:
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Longer-Looking Teeth - Teeth that appear longer than they once did.
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Tooth Sensitivity - Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
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Notches Near the Gumline - A visible notch or ridge near the gumline. |
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Exposed Roots - Yellowish root surfaces visible near the base of a tooth along the gum line.
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Gum Inflammation - Gums that are red, swollen, or puffy, or that bleed when you brush or floss.
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Persistent Bad Breath - Bad breath that lingers and may become more frequent as gum disease worsens.
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Loose or Shifting Teeth - Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position. |
If you notice any of these changes, it is a good idea to schedule an evaluation.
Why Gum Recession Should Not Be Ignored
It may be tempting to overlook minor recession, especially if it is not causing pain. However, receding gums can lead to more serious concerns over time. Exposed tooth roots can lead to oral health problems beyond sensitivity, including a higher risk of decay, and deeper pockets around the teeth make it easier for bacteria to reach the underlying bone. As gum disease continues, bacteria can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, recession associated with gum disease can eventually result in bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. Recession can also affect the appearance of your smile, leaving teeth looking uneven or elongated, and untreated gum recession can worsen over time if it is not addressed.
How Our Periodontists Diagnose Gum Recession
During your visit, our doctors will carefully examine your gums and measure the depth of the pockets around each tooth. We will also assess the amount of exposed root, evaluate your bite, and review your medical and dental history, since conditions that affect blood sugar can increase bacterial growth and raise gum risk. Imaging may be used to check the health of the bone supporting your teeth and your overall oral health. By understanding the underlying cause and severity of your recession, our dental team can recommend a treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and the source of the problem.
Treatment Options for Receding Gums, Including Scaling and Root Planing
Treatment depends on the cause and severity, and our periodontists offer several gum recession treatment options tailored to each patient:
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Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy - Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, smooths tooth roots so gums can heal, and in selected cases gum recession treatment may also include topical antibiotics or dental bonding.
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LANAP Laser Treatment - This advanced, minimally invasive laser procedure treats gum disease by targeting infected tissue while preserving healthy tissue, often with less discomfort and a quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
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Gum Grafting - Performed by a gum specialist, this gum recession treatment is often the most predictable option for covering exposed roots, replacing lost gum tissue, reducing sensitivity, and supporting long-term gum health; healing typically takes about two weeks.
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Bone Grafting - When recession is accompanied by bone loss, grafting can help rebuild support around the teeth.
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Night Guards - For patients who grind or clench, a custom guard can help protect the teeth and gums from excess force. |
Tips to Help Prevent Further Recession
While some risk factors, such as genetics, cannot be changed, there are many steps you can take to prevent receding gums and help prevent gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle, circular motions rather than scrubbing back and forth as part of good oral hygiene. Floss daily to remove plaque between the teeth and support healthy gums. Avoid tobacco products, and let us know if you grind your teeth at night to protect your oral health and support long-term gum health. Visit the dentist for cleanings every six months and keep periodontal checkups as advised to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Compassionate, Expert Periodontal Care
At Glen Perio, we understand that learning your gums are receding can feel concerning. Our team is dedicated to patient education and will take the time to explain what is happening, answer your questions, and walk you through every option. We combine advanced technology with a gentle, supportive approach, and sedation dentistry is available for patients who would like to feel more relaxed during treatment.
Schedule a Gum Recession Evaluation in Glenview, IL
If you have noticed changes in your gums or increased tooth sensitivity, do not wait for the problem to progress. Our experienced periodontists are here to help you protect your smile and restore the health of your gums. Call Glen Perio at 224-488-3392 today to schedule your consultation. |
