Receding Gums: Causes, Stages, and What Can Be Done
Many people first notice receding gums without looking at their gums. A tooth may look slightly longer than it used to, or cold water may start to cause sensitivity. What is often happening is gum recession, where the gum tissue gradually pulls away from the tooth and exposes part of the root surface beneath.
Gum recession is a common finding at dental check-ups. Because it tends to progress gradually, it can go unnoticed for some time, so understanding its causes and stages can make early changes easier to recognise.
What Causes Receding Gums?
Several factors can contribute to gum recession, and a dentist can help identify which may apply to you.
- Brushing too hard: Scrubbing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Gum disease: Plaque bacteria along the gumline, sometimes first noticed as bleeding gums, may damage the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
- Teeth grinding: Grinding or clenching places repeated pressure on the teeth and surrounding structures.
- Genetics: Some people have naturally thinner gum tissue, which can be more prone to recession.
- Tobacco use: Smoking can affect gum health and the gums’ ability to heal.
Stages of Gum Recession
Gum recession has no formal staging system, but its progression is often described in three broad stages.
- Early stage: The gumline begins to shift, a tooth may look slightly longer, and sensitivity to hot or cold may appear.
- Moderate stage: More of the root may show, sensitivity may increase, and the gum may sit lower around affected teeth.
- Later stage: A larger portion of the root may be exposed, and affected teeth may become loose.
Early changes may be managed with simpler steps, such as changing brushing habits. Lost gum tissue does not grow back on its own, and many people only learn of recession when a dentist points it out, which is why regular check-ups matter.
How Are Receding Gums Treated?
Treatment for receding gums depends on the cause and stage of recession. A dentist will usually assess both before explaining how they may treat it.
- Professional cleaning: Where plaque or tartar is involved, scaling and polishing, and in some cases a deeper clean below the gumline, may form part of the plan.
- Treating gum disease: Where gum disease is the underlying cause, gum disease management addresses the infection itself rather than only the visible changes.
- Surgical options: For more extensive recession, a dentist may discuss gum grafting, which aims to cover exposed root surfaces.
Adjusting brushing technique and addressing teeth grinding are often part of the plan at any stage.
How Can You Prevent Receding Gums?
Genetics cannot be changed, but several daily habits may help prevent receding gums from developing or worsening, and a dentist can show you how.
- A soft-bristled toothbrush, used gently rather than scrubbing
- Daily cleaning between teeth to reduce plaque at the gumline
- Regular dental check-ups, so early changes can be picked up
- Speaking to your dentist about grinding if you notice jaw tension or worn teeth
- Avoiding tobacco
When Should You See a Dentist?
It may be time to see a dentist if your teeth look longer than usual, you feel sensitivity you did not have before, or the gumline looks lower. A dentist may also spot recession at a routine check-up before you notice anything.
If you are unsure whether your gums have started to recede, a dentist can take a look and talk you through what they find. You can book a consultation at your nearest Family Dental Centre clinic, such as our Toa Payoh dental clinic or Jurong dental clinic, and our dentist will examine your gums, identify any contributing factors, and outline treatment options.
