Severe gingival recession: causes, symptoms and treatment

Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, occurs when the gum margin around a tooth in the upper arch moves upwards, or when the gum margin around a tooth in the lower arch recedes downwards. If it affects only one tooth, it is referred to as a single recession; if several teeth are involved, it is known as multiple recession. Most people affected by this condition first become aware of it because they notice that **one tooth begins to look longer than the neighbouring teeth**. There are several possible causes, including genetic predisposition, incorrect at-home oral hygiene practices, prolonged and untreated bacterial plaque build-up, and periodontitis. Patients with thin gingival tissues are particularly susceptible. Below, we look at how gum recession can be prevented and how it can be treated if it occurs.

CONTENTS

  1. Gum anatomy
  2. Causes of gum recession
  3. What happens when gums recede?
  4. Treatment for gum recession
  5. FAQ

1. GUM ANATOMY ⇧

The gums are the soft tissues that cover the alveolar arches and surround the necks of the teeth. They play an important role because they protect the periodontium from external factors. The periodontium is the complex of structures that supports the teeth and anchors them to the underlying bone.

2. CAUSES OF GUM RECESSION ⇧

The main causes include overly vigorous or incorrect tooth brushing and the presence of tartar. Gingival phenotype is recognised by the modern classification of periodontal diseases as an important factor in the assessment of mucogingival conditions. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles can lead to gum recession in many individuals, as well as plaque build-up over time and the development of tooth decay. The progression of periodontal disease can result in severe gum recession as part of the body’s defensive response. Smoking or chewing tobacco are also possible causes of gum recession.

3. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN GUMS RECEDE? ⇧

When the gum recedes, part of the tooth root becomes exposed and visible. In some cases, dark triangular spaces may also appear between the teeth, sometimes associated with periodontal pockets. These spaces can facilitate the accumulation and proliferation of bacteria, causing a variety of problems. Periodontal tissue recession is extremely common among the general population: between 50% and 80% of people have at least one tooth affected by this condition. It can occur in adults of all ages.

Root exposure is not merely an aesthetic concern. Canines and premolars, in particular, may become more susceptible to bacterial activity and dentine hypersensitivity. A common consequence can be bad breath, while more serious complications include abrasion of the root surface, root caries and tooth mobility. Other frequent problems include a tendency for the gums to bleed, acute oral infections and pain when chewing and swallowing. If gum recession is left untreated, it can permanently damage the supporting tissues and bone around the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

4. TREATMENT FOR GUM RECESSION ⇧

Gum recession does not normally resolve spontaneously. Early diagnosis, however, makes it possible to identify its causes or predisposing factors, limit its progression and determine the most appropriate treatment. To stop the progression of gum recession and restore optimal gum health, it is first necessary to address the underlying cause. If, for example, the condition is caused by incorrect tooth-brushing techniques, the dentist will instruct the patient on the correct way to clean their teeth. Restoring the gums to their original appearance may require reconstructive treatment aimed at improving both the quality and quantity of the gingival tissues surrounding the tooth.

Can receding gums grow back?

Gums cannot grow back naturally, but they can be repositioned to their original location or reconstructed through periodontal surgical procedures such as:

  • mucogingival plastic surgery;
  • covering exposed roots with tissue grafts taken from the palate;
  • the use of collagen matrices to promote thickening and stabilisation of the gum tissue;
  • a gum repositioning procedure, when the gingival tissue is sufficiently thick;
  • a composite restoration when the receding gum affects a less visible tooth.

To understand the differences between these procedures in greater detail and identify the most appropriate solution for your individual situation, you can contact the experienced team at our dental practice in Milan.

5. FAQ ⇧

A. It can be caused by several factors, including a thin gingival phenotype, periodontal disease, tooth position, anatomical factors and repeated mechanical trauma, such as incorrect or excessively aggressive tooth brushing.

A. The severity does not depend solely on how far the gum has receded. The dentist assesses the depth and extent of the recession, the interdental tissues, the condition of the root, tooth sensitivity and periodontal health to determine the most appropriate treatment.

A. Good oral hygiene, a non-traumatic brushing technique and regular dental check-ups help protect gum health. In the presence of predisposing factors, the dentist may recommend personalised preventive measures.