Gingival Recession Symptoms: 7 Signs to Know

Introduction

Gingival recession is a common dental condition characterized by gums shrinking toward the apical portion of the tooth, leaving root surface exposed. It is estimated that at least 50% of the population has some gingival recession, with these numbers varying by country and age. Gingival recession tends to increase with age, but other risk factors contribute as well.

It is important to recognize signs of gingival recession early so that appropriate steps can be taken to slow or stop progression, thus it is critical to maintain regular dental check-up appointments. European Denture Center offers expertise in oral health care conditions and treatment. Our team of experienced dental professionals is here to help with all dental concerns.

What is Gingival Recession?

Gingival recession is the technical term for when gums shrink toward the root and away from the crown of the tooth, exposing the area of tooth where enamel (crown portion) meets cementum (root portion). This recession primarily affects the gingival margin, the area where the gums meet the teeth, and can lead to symptoms like redness and bleeding due to inflammation and plaque accumulation. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontal disease, which is inflammation that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. This can result in root sensitivity, root cavities, and bone loss, which can cause mobility and even loss of teeth.

7 Signs of Gingival Recession

Tooth Sensitivity 

Tooth sensitivity is a common sign of gingival recession. When gums recede, the root is exposed. The root surface is not covered by hard enamel like the tooth surface is, but rather by cementum which is not as strong. When the thin cementum layer breaks down, the more porous second layer of tooth is exposed, which can result in sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweets.

Visible Tooth Roots 

Another common sign of gingival recession is seeing tooth roots. When looking at teeth with no recession, you only see the crown above the gumline. As gums recede, the root becomes visible – this can be notable, as a root often appears narrower and sometimes darker in color than the crown portion of the tooth. There may even be an obvious line at the start of the root portion of the tooth.  

Changes in Gum Appearance 

In cases of gingival recession, the gum itself may appear different. Gums in areas of recession may appear thinner or uneven around teeth, or you may simply note that the gumline is at different levels on different teeth.  

Increased Tooth Length 

The appearance of an increase in tooth length is another clear sign of gingival recession. While teeth aren’t actually growing, the portion of the tooth you are able to see increases as the gums recede, making teeth appear longer.

Loose Teeth 

When gum recedes significantly, it is often accompanied by bone loss. With the loss of gingival and bony support, teeth can become loose. This is another sign of gingival recession that is hard to miss.

Gum Inflammation or Bleeding 

Gingival recession can be due to periodontal diseases, including gingivitis and plaque build-up. Gums may become red, swollen, or may bleed more easily. Although these symptoms are not unique to gum recession, they can be a sign of the condition.

Bad Breath (Halitosis) 

Gingival recession can also be a sign of more severe periodontal disease. When plaque builds up and hardens on teeth, bone loss can occur as well as gum recession. Persistent bad breath (or halitosis) frequently accompanies and can be a clear sign of periodontal disease, which can include gingival recession.

What Causes Gingival Recession?

Plaque-Induced Gingivitis 

Gingival recession can be caused by several factors, one of which is plaque-induced gingivitis. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the build-up of plaque and calculus which can in-turn cause gum inflammation. This inflammation can cause gingival recession (as well as bone loss).

Aggressive Brushing 

Aggressive tooth-brushing can also contribute to gingival recession. Improper brushing technique, such as aggressively brushing gums, scrubbing with an electric toothbrush, or using a hard-bristle toothbrush can lead to gingival recession.

Tobacco Use 

Tobacco use (smoking or chewing tobacco) can also cause gingival recession. There are several ways in which tobacco increases risk for recession. Tobacco causes increased tartar build-up on teeth which irritates gums and causes recession. Tobacco also reduces the flow of saliva which can cause irritated, receding gums. Tobacco use also causes decreased circulation which can contribute to gingival recession as well. 

Genetics 

Genetics also play a role as a risk factor for gingival recession. Some people have thinner gum tissue than others (and this runs in families) - this thin tissue can leave people at higher risk of gingival recession. In these cases, family history may indicate risk for gingival recession. Hereditary gingival fibromatosis is a genetic condition that can cause gingivitis and contribute to gingival recession.

Misaligned Teeth or Grinding (Bruxism) 

When teeth don’t align ideally, they can experience trauma when biting. Similar trauma occurs when people grind (or brux) their teeth. This traumatic bite or bruxism can lead to gingival recession as it causes inflammation in the gums and puts extra force on the neck of the tooth and the gums in this area. This can cause loosening of teeth and localized bone loss in addition to gingival recession.

Hormonal Changes 

Estrogen and progesterone are hormones that fluctuate in women throughout puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, as well as with the use of hormonal contraceptives (eg. birth control pills). These hormones are responsible for increased blood flow to gingiva, which can cause increased inflammation in response to stressors such as plaque and bacteria. This ultimately results in gingival recession and bleeding, swollen gums.

Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

Early detection and intervention in cases of gingival recession is very important to prevent serious complications. While mild gingival recession is common, when it is noted in early stages the progression can often be stopped or slowed by addressing the underlying cause. However, if gingival recession is left untreated, progression can result in tooth loss and increased dental expenses due to the need for surgery and other more involved treatments.

Routine dental check-up appointments are great for monitoring gingival recession and recommending necessary treatment to prevent or slow progression. During these check-ups, a periodontal probe is used to measure the depth of periodontal pockets and assess gum health.

Prevention Tips for Gingival Recession

Preventing or slowing gingival recession can often be accomplished with simple changes. Maintaining regular dental check-up appointments and dental cleanings as recommended by your dentist is critical to diagnosing and preventing further gingival recession.

Proper home care is also important, such as brushing at least twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush, not scrubbing if you use an electric toothbrush, and flossing daily. Individuals with thin gum tissue should be particularly vigilant in their oral care routine to prevent gingival recession. For sensitivity as a side effect of gingival recession, desensitizing toothpaste is recommended. If your recession is related to grinding, wearing a nightguard as prescribed by your dentist can help to prevent further recession by preventing grinding. Finally, avoiding tobacco products and adopting a healthy diet can help prevent further gingival recession and contribute to overall health.

Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?

The ability to reverse gum disease depends deeply on its stage. Yes, some gum recession can be reversed in its early stage. However, once it progresses to periodontitis, it cannot be fully reversed, and can only be managed and treated to prevent further damage to the gum line.

Gum Margin & Recession

1. Normal Gum Recession

• A small degree of gum recession (1-2 mm) is considered normal with aging.
• This is usually not a cause for concern unless accompanied by symptoms like sensitivity or inflammation.

2. Concerning Gum Recession

• Moderate recession (3-4 mm) is considered concerning, especially if it progresses quickly.
• Signs that gum recession is becoming problematic:
  • Increased tooth sensitivity to hot/cold.
  • Exposed tooth roots.
  • Visible lengthening of the teeth (teeth looking "longer").
  • Gums feeling sore or inflamed.
• At this stage, intervention is recommended to prevent further damage.

3. Severe Gum Recession (Risk of Tooth Loss)

• Severe recession (5 mm or more) can lead to:
  • Loose teeth due to loss of supporting gum and bone.
  • Increased risk of decay and infection due to exposed roots.
  • Eventual tooth loss if left untreated.
• Recession of 6 mm or more often requires surgical intervention, such as gum grafting, to restore lost tissue and prevent tooth loss.

Treatment Options for Gingival Recession

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing) 

Scaling and root planing is a dental treatment often referred to as a deep cleaning. This procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline which can help stop or slow the progress of gingival recession due to inflammation. 

Gum Grafting Surgery 

In significant cases of gingival recession, gum recession surgery is a necessary treatment option. In a gingival graft (or gum grafting surgery), tissue is taken, often from the roof of the mouth of the patient, and stitched in place over the roots in an area with recession. A gum graft is a surgical procedure used to replace missing gum tissue and restore the gingival margin. This surgery helps to improve gingival coverage and thickness, often contributing to the prevention of future recession.

Composite Restoration 

Composite restorations can be used to cover exposed roots with tooth-colored fillings. This treatment does not address the issue of recession but can improve sensitivity and treat root caries which often result from root exposure due to gingival recession.

Orthodontic Treatments 

Orthodontic treatments are frequently used to straighten crooked teeth. This type of treatment can help with gingival recession if tooth position is causing difficulty in keeping teeth clean. It can also reduce strain on gums by correcting a traumatic bite which may be contributing to gingival recession.

Dentures or Partial Replacements 

In cases where gingival recession progresses to tooth loss, complete or partial dentures can help to restore function and appearance by replacing missing teeth. European Denture Center is an excellent resource for effective treatment options when tooth loss has occurred. 

Need Dentures? Choose European Denture Center

European Denture Center is here to help if you need new dentures. Eurodenture is committed to providing patients with quality dental care. With expertise in personalized denture solutions, European Denture Center has the denture option that is right for you. Schedule a consultation today by calling 866-428-0505 or filling out an appointment form.