Gum recession is one of those oral health changes that can develop so gradually that you may not notice it at first. Your teeth may begin to look slightly longer, the gumline may appear uneven, or you may suddenly experience sensitivity when drinking something cold.
Receding gums are not simply a cosmetic concern. The gums protect the roots of your teeth and form an important part of the supporting structures that keep your teeth healthy and stable.
When gum tissue moves away from the tooth, the root surface can become exposed. Depending on the cause and severity, this can increase sensitivity, affect the appearance of your smile and potentially make the tooth more vulnerable to further periodontal problems.
For patients experiencing gum recession, evaluation by a periodontist in Beverly Hills can help determine why the recession is occurring and whether treatment is necessary.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the margin of the gum tissue moves away from its normal position around a tooth, exposing more of the tooth or its root.
It can affect a single tooth, several teeth or become more widespread throughout the mouth.
Because recession often develops slowly, many patients only become aware of it when they notice a change in their smile or begin experiencing tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Receding Gums?
There is no single cause.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
As these supporting structures are lost, the gumline can recede.
If recession is associated with periodontal disease, treating the underlying disease is important before considering cosmetic correction.
Aggressive Tooth Brushing
Brushing harder does not necessarily mean brushing better.
Repeated aggressive brushing, particularly with a hard-bristled toothbrush or an abrasive technique, may contribute to gum recession in susceptible patients.
Thin Gum Tissue
Some people naturally have thinner gum tissue.
Thin tissue may be more vulnerable to recession, particularly around certain teeth.
Tooth Position
A tooth positioned towards the outside of the dental arch may have relatively thin bone and gum tissue covering its root.
This can make recession more likely.
Orthodontic Movement
Orthodontic treatment itself does not automatically cause recession. However, moving teeth through areas where bone or gum tissue is thin can influence the periodontal tissues.
A periodontal assessment may therefore be useful for patients who already have thin tissue or recession.
Teeth Grinding or Bite Forces
Excessive forces on teeth may contribute to changes in the supporting tissues in some patients.
The entire bite and periodontal environment need to be considered rather than looking at the gumline alone.
Why Does Gum Recession Matter?
An exposed tooth root does not have the same protective enamel covering as the crown of the tooth.
As recession progresses, patients may experience:
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Root exposure
- Uneven gumlines
- Teeth that appear longer
- Greater vulnerability of the exposed root surface
- Aesthetic concerns
More importantly, recession can sometimes be a visible sign of a broader periodontal problem.
Will Receding Gums Grow Back?
Once gum tissue has been lost, it does not simply regenerate to its original position on its own.
However, this does not mean every case of recession requires surgery.
Treatment begins by identifying the cause and determining whether the recession is stable or progressing.
In selected cases, gum grafting can be used to increase tissue thickness, protect exposed roots and improve the gumline.
Dr. Lander’s practice uses reconstructive periodontal techniques to rebuild diminished soft tissue and restore support around teeth and implants.
What Is Gum Grafting?
Gum grafting is a periodontal procedure used to add soft tissue to areas where the gums are thin or have receded.
Depending on the individual case, treatment may be designed to:
- Protect an exposed root
- Increase gum thickness
- Improve tissue stability
- Reduce sensitivity
or improve the appearance and symmetry of the gumline. The objective is not simply to make the gums look different. It is to create a healthier and more stable soft-tissue environment around the tooth.
When Should I See a Periodontist?
Consider a periodontal assessment if you notice that:
- Your teeth are looking longer
- Your gumline is changing
- You have exposed tooth roots
- You have persistent sensitivity
- One area of recession appears to be worsening
or your dentist has told you that your gum tissue is thin. A periodontist specialises in the gums and supporting structures around the teeth and can determine whether monitoring, changes in oral hygiene, periodontal treatment or soft-tissue grafting is appropriate.
Gum Grafting in Beverly Hills
The appropriate treatment for recession depends on why the gum has receded in the first place.
Dr. Bradley Lander is a Board-Certified Periodontist and dental implant surgeon whose practice includes periodontal reconstruction and cosmetic periodontal care.
If you are concerned about receding gums or are considering gum grafting in Beverly Hills, a periodontal evaluation can help establish the cause and determine the most appropriate treatment.