If your teeth look longer than they used to or you have noticed increased sensitivity, you may be dealing with receding gums. Gum recession happens gradually, so it is easy to overlook until the changes become obvious. Left unaddressed, it can expose the sensitive roots of your teeth and increase the risk of decay and tooth loss. At Infinite Dental Wellness in Glendale, CA, Dr. Leon Kiraj and Dr. Liana Muradyan help patients understand why gums recede and what can be done to stop and manage it. Here is what you need to know about the causes and treatment options.
What Are Receding Gums?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth and eventually the root. This creates small gaps between the gums and teeth where bacteria can collect. Because the roots are not protected by hard enamel, they are more vulnerable to sensitivity and decay. Recession is often a slow process, which is why regular dental checkups are so valuable for catching it early.
The crowns of your teeth, the parts you normally see, are covered in a tough layer of enamel that shields them from temperature changes and acids. The roots, by contrast, are covered by a much softer material and are meant to stay protected beneath the gums. When the gums recede and the roots become exposed, that protective design is lost. This is why people with gum recession often notice sensitivity first, well before they realize their gums have changed. Catching recession early gives us the best chance to protect those vulnerable root surfaces.
Common signs of gum recession
- Teeth that appear longer than before
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- A notch or step you can feel near the gum line
- Roots that are visibly exposed
- Gums that look red, swollen, or tender
What Causes Gums to Recede?
Several factors can contribute to gum recession, and often more than one is involved. Understanding the cause is the first step toward stopping the problem.
- Gum disease, the leading cause, which destroys gum tissue and supporting bone
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush, which wears gums away
- Inconsistent oral hygiene that allows plaque and tartar to build up
- Teeth grinding or clenching, which puts excess force on the gums
- Tobacco use, which damages gum tissue and slows healing
- Genetics and the natural thickness of your gum tissue
Because gum disease and aggressive brushing are among the most common culprits, addressing these habits often makes a significant difference. A surprising number of people scrub their teeth with a firm brush and heavy pressure, believing that harder brushing means cleaner teeth. In fact, gentle brushing removes plaque just as well without wearing down the delicate gum tissue. Identifying which factors are at play in your case allows us to target the real cause rather than simply treating the symptoms, which is the key to lasting results.
Why Receding Gums Should Not Be Ignored
Gum recession is more than a cosmetic concern. As the roots become exposed, teeth grow more sensitive and more prone to decay along the root surface. The gaps that form can trap bacteria, accelerating gum disease and bone loss. Over time, untreated recession can loosen teeth and threaten your smile. Addressing it early helps protect both the health and the appearance of your teeth. Many patients are motivated by the cosmetic changes, since exposed roots and longer-looking teeth can affect how you feel about your smile, but the health consequences are the more important reason to act. The sooner the underlying cause is addressed, the more of your natural gum tissue and tooth structure you can preserve.
Treatment Options for Receding Gums
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the recession. The first priority is always to stop the recession from progressing by addressing the underlying problem.
How we manage gum recession
- Treat gum disease with a professional cleaning or scaling and root planing to remove buildup below the gum line
- Correct brushing habits with a soft-bristled brush and gentle technique
- Address teeth grinding with a custom night guard to reduce force on the gums
- Treat exposed roots and sensitivity to keep you comfortable
- Refer for periodontal procedures when more advanced restoration of the gum line is needed
For many patients, stopping the cause and improving daily care is enough to prevent further recession and protect the teeth. We tailor each plan to your specific situation. It is important to set realistic expectations, though: once gum tissue has receded, it does not grow back on its own. The goal of treatment is to halt the progression, relieve any sensitivity, and protect the exposed roots from decay. When recession is severe and threatens a tooth, more advanced periodontal procedures may be recommended to rebuild or cover the lost tissue, and we can guide you through those options if they become necessary.
How to Prevent Gum Recession
The best way to deal with receding gums is to prevent them in the first place. A gentle, consistent oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits go a long way, and the habits that protect your gums are simple to build into your day.
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and along the gum line
- Wear a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth
- Avoid tobacco products
- Visit us regularly so we can catch early signs of recession
Receding gums will not reverse on their own, but with the right care you can stop the progression and protect your smile for years to come. The earlier you take action, the more options you have and the easier it is to keep the problem from getting worse. If you have noticed sensitivity, exposed roots, or teeth that look longer, the team at Infinite Dental Wellness is ready to help. Call our Glendale office today at (818) 541-1110 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Kiraj or Dr. Muradyan and take action to keep your gums healthy.