Key Takeaways
- Gum recession is a condition that is caused when the gums move away exposing the roots, which are sensitive.
- Some of the early warning signs are sensitivity, exposed root surfaces and uneven gums.
- A gum disease dentist is able to diagnose the cause, which may be brushing, grinding, inflammation of gums or age-related alterations.
- Deep cleaning, recession protection, and referrals to grafting where necessary are some of the ways to treat.
- Clove Dental Sherman Oaks assists patients in dealing with recession at an initial stage to avoid recession-related damage and unpleasant experiences in the long term.
Have you noticed that your teeth appear longer, or do you feel a sharp twinge while brushing near the gumline? These could be early signs of gum recession, and getting help early makes a big difference.
At Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, many adults are surprised to discover they have gum recession even if they brush and floss regularly. Recession doesn’t always come from poor hygiene; it can happen from habits, genetics, or silent gum inflammation. This is why seeing a dentist for gum disease is important, the moment you notice changes.
Let’s explore gum recession: what it is, why it occurs, and how we assist patients in treating and preventing it.
What Exactly Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, exposing more of the root surface. Unlike enamel, roots are softer and more sensitive, which is why recession often leads to discomfort.
Patients describe symptoms like:
- Sensitivity to cold
- Sharp pain when brushing
- Teeth that look “longer.”
- Uneven gumlines
- Food packing near the gumline
Many people don’t realize recession can start slowly and quietly. That’s why a dentist for gum disease plays a crucial role in catching early changes.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
A recession usually develops over time. Understanding the cause helps prevent it from progressing.
1. Gum Disease
Inflamed gums weaken the supporting tissue, causing it to pull away. Even mild gum disease can lead to recession if untreated. This is one of the most common reasons patients need a dentist for gum disease.
2. Brushing Too Hard
Using a hard toothbrush or brushing aggressively can wear down gum tissue.
3. Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Excess pressure causes gums to recede, especially near the canines and front teeth.
4. Genetics
There are patients who are simply unable to attract fat gum tissue, and they are therefore more likely to experience recession.
5. Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
When teeth are positioned at improper angles, the gums can pull back more easily.
6. Age-Related Changes
After years of daily brushing and chewing, a mild recession is common in adults over 40.
Identifying the cause early with a dentist for gum disease helps guide the right treatment.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Many adults ignore early recession because it’s painless at first. But the earlier we detect it, the easier it is to manage.
Here are signs that need attention:
1. Sensitivity to Brushing or Cold Foods
Exposed roots react quickly to temperature changes.
2. Teeth That Look Longer
A visible change in gum height is one of the clearest signs.
3. Notches Near the Gumline
These tiny scooped-out areas indicate wear from brushing or clenching.
4. Bleeding Gums
The mild bleeding during brushing may be a sign of early gum disease.
5. Loose or Shifting Teeth
Advanced recession affects bone support and may cause mobility.
When patients visit a dentist for gum disease, these signs help us decide which treatment path is best.
How We Diagnose Gum Recession
During your exam, we check:
- Gum height changes
- Pocket depths
- Bone levels
- Signs of grinding
- Brush patterns
- Gum thickness
We also take digital images to monitor changes over time. This thorough approach allows Clove Dental Sherman Oaks to detect recession early.
Treatment Choices for Gum Recession
The type of treatment is based on how severe the recession is and what caused it. Here are the most common solutions.
1. Deep Cleaning for Gum Disease
If inflammation or tartar buildup is the root cause, scaling and root planing remove bacteria and allow the gums to stabilize. A dentist for gum disease often starts treatment here.
2. Sensitivity Protection
To protect the exposed roots and alleviate pain we use protective varnishes or bonding material to cover them.
3. Adjusting Brushing Habits
The recession is further blocked by switching to a soft toothbrush and a soft brushing action.
4. Night Guards for Grinding
A custom night guard protects teeth and gums from pressure that worsens recession.
5. Gum Grafting Referral
In case of severe recession, we can also refer patients to do gum grafting to preserve the lost tissue and save the root.
6. Bite Adjustments
Small manipulations can decongest gums in case misalignment is one of the reasons for recession.
The early intervention by a dentist to treat gum disease can save the person from more intricate interventions in the future.
How to Prevent Further Gum Recession
Prevention is key, especially once the recession has started.
We recommend:
- Gently brushing with a soft brush.
- Snapless flossing.
- Wearing a night guard if you grind
- Getting regular cleanings
- Treating gum disease early
- Avoiding overly abrasive toothpaste
These simple steps protect your gums long-term.
We’re Here to Help You Save Your Smile
Gum recession need not be dreadful. It can be slowed down, made hypersensitive, and even safeguarded with the right treatment and prompt intervention, and your teeth will last you many years.
In Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, we will listen to find out what caused your recession and develop an individual program. In case of a dentist to treat gum disease, you will get the helpful, thorough service with the aim of maintaining the health and strength of your gums.
FAQs
Is gum recession reversible?
Gum recession is treatable and preventable at an early stage; however, once it has been lost, it will not regenerate. In the severe cases, grafting can be required to achieve coverage.
What causes gums to recede?
Common causes include gum disease, brushing too hard, grinding or clenching, genetics, ageing, and misaligned teeth. A dentist for gum disease can identify your exact cause.
How do I know if my gums are receding?
You may notice sensitivity, longer-looking teeth, uneven gumlines, or notches near the gumline. Some people feel food packaging in new spaces.
Can brushing too hard really cause recession?
Yes. Using a hard toothbrush or scrubbing aggressively can wear away gum tissue over time.
Can gum recession be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many cases improve with deep cleaning, sensitivity treatments, night guards, or changes in brushing habits. Surgery is only needed for an advanced recession.