Gum recession is a common dental issue that often goes unnoticed until it becomes more severe. It happens when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, wears away, and exposes more of the tooth or its root.
This can cause tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and even tooth loss. Knowing the causes of receding gums helps prevent issues and keep treatments simple. Here, we’ll cover the causes of gum recession.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Have you ever noticed your teeth looking a little longer than they used to? Or maybe you’ve felt a sudden sensitivity to hot or cold drinks? These could be signs that your gums are receding.
Gum recession is when the pink tissue around your teeth slowly pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or even the root. A lot of different things can cause this to happen. Let’s break down the most common reasons, from how you clean your teeth to things that are simply out of your control.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Not brushing and flossing regularly is one of the top reasons gums recede. When you skip brushing or don’t floss, a sticky film called plaque builds up on your teeth and along your gums. If it isn’t cleaned off, plaque turns into a hard substance called tartar.
Tartar can’t be removed with a toothbrush. Only your dentist or hygienist can completely remove it. Tartar irritates your gums, making them red, swollen, and likely to pull away from your teeth over time.
Brushing Too Much
It might sound surprising, but you can actually brush your teeth too hard. Using a stiff-bristled brush or scrubbing aggressively can wear down your enamel and damage your gums. It’s like scrubbing a soft surface with something too rough.
Over time, the gums get irritated and begin to recede. To avoid this, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions. Let the bristles do the work, not your arm muscles.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a major cause of recession. It often starts as gingivitis where gums become red, swollen, and bleed when you brush. At this stage, it’s still reversible.
But if it’s not treated, it can turn into periodontitis, a more serious infection. This can damage the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place, causing receding gums and even loose teeth.
Genetics
Sometimes, gum health comes down to family history. Even if you take great care of your teeth, you might be more likely to have gum problems if your parents or grandparents did. If gum disease runs in your family, it’s extra important to see your dentist regularly so they can help you catch any issues early.
Hormonal Changes
Hormones can affect your gums, especially in women. During puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, changes in hormones can make gums more sensitive. They might become more easily irritated by plaque and speed up recession if you don’t manage it carefully.
Tobacco Use
Smoking or using tobacco is really hard on your gums. It weakens your body’s ability to fight infection and makes it harder for gums to heal. Tobacco users also tend to have more plaque and tartar, which increases the risk of gum disease and recession.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Grinding or clenching your teeth puts a lot of pressure on them and your gums. This force can cause your gums to recede over time. Many people don’t even know they grind their teeth until a dentist points it out. If you do, wearing a night guard can help protect your smile.
Misaligned Teeth or Bite Issues
If your teeth are crooked or your bite is uneven, certain teeth might get more pressure than others when you chew. This can strain the gums and bone in those spots and lead to recession over time. Orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign can help by evenly spreading out the force when you bite.
If you’re worried about receding gums, the best thing to do is talk to Dr. Robert Cain. He can help you figure out what’s causing it and recommend the right treatment to keep your smile healthy.
At East Tennessee Periodontics, your oral health is our top priority. If you suffer from increased tooth sensitivity, gum recession could be the culprit. Contact our office today by calling (865) 276-7173 or schedule an appointment online.
