"My teeth look longer than they used to" is a complaint we hear regularly. In reality the teeth have not grown; receding gums have exposed root surface that was previously covered. This article brings together what we explain to patients presenting with gum recession at our clinic in Eyüpsultan, Istanbul.
Why Do Gums Recede?
There is rarely a single cause; usually several factors act together.
Gum disease is the most common. Inflammation that begins with plaque and calculus accumulation progressively pushes back both the gum and the bone beneath it.
Incorrect brushing comes second and surprises most patients. Using a hard brush and scrubbing horizontally with force wears the gum away mechanically. In these cases the gum looks healthy but has receded — meaning the belief "I brush very thoroughly" can itself be the source of the problem.
Clenching and grinding contribute through excessive force transmitted to the tooth root. Orthodontic movement, a thin gingival biotype, high frenal attachments and oral piercings can all play a part.
What Are the Symptoms?
Cold sensitivity is the most frequent symptom, because exposed root surface is not covered by enamel and responds far more readily to stimuli. Teeth appearing longer, a colour difference at the neck of the tooth, new gaps opening between teeth and, in advanced cases, mobility are the other signs.
If bleeding accompanies recession, active inflammation is present as well. Healthy gums do not bleed, and this symptom should never be regarded as normal.
Do Receded Gums Grow Back?
No. Lost gum and bone tissue do not regenerate on their own, which is why the primary aim of treatment is to halt progression and protect what remains.
That does not mean nothing can be done. In suitable cases the root surface can be covered surgically with a good aesthetic result. However, not every case is suitable for root coverage; success is directly related to the condition of the adjacent tissues and the bone level.
Treatment Options
Treatment begins by removing the cause. Where inflammation is present, scaling and root planing is carried out. Where brushing technique is at fault, correct technique is demonstrated and a soft brush introduced — a simple change that halts progression in most cases. Where grinding is present, a night guard is planned.
For sensitivity, desensitising toothpastes, varnish applications and, where needed, covering the exposed root surface with a restorative material are all options.
Where there is aesthetic concern or ongoing recession, gum grafting procedures are used. Connective tissue harvested from the palate, or suitable graft materials, are used to cover the root surface. In well-selected cases the results are highly successful.
How to Stop It Progressing
Three points in daily care are decisive: use a soft brush, brush gently with small circular movements, and never skip interdental cleaning. Add six-monthly reviews and, where applicable, stopping smoking, and you bring the rate of progression largely under control.
Gum recession is a condition that can be halted with far simpler measures when caught early. If you notice sensitivity or a change in appearance, it is worth having it assessed without waiting.
Patients in Eyüpsultan and the wider Eyüp area are welcome to contact our clinic for a periodontal examination.