Quiz
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession means your gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, exposing more surface or even the roots. This creates pockets where bacteria can collect, increasing your risk of infection and bone loss.
Most patients don’t feel it happening. It usually starts after 40 and progresses slowly–until sensitivity or tooth changes make it more noticeable.
What Do Receding Gums Look Like as They Progress?
Recession can develop slowly or become visibly noticeable over time.
Here’s how it typically works:
| Stage | What You Might Notice |
|---|---|
| Early | Tooth sensitivity, mild discomfort |
| Moderate | Gumline visibly lower, slight tooth elongation |
| Advanced | Redness, bad breath, exposed roots, pain |
Tip:
Run a finger along your gums. Feel like the edge of a tooth is more exposed than before? That’s worth a checkup.
What Causes Receding Gums?
Recession is common with age, but other preventable causes include:
- Gum disease: The #1 culprit – infection weakens gum and bone support.
- Aggressive brushing: Too much force damages tissue.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Creates pressure that stresses gums.
- Tobacco use: Constricts blood vessels, weakening healing.
- Crooked teeth or misaligned bite: Uneven pressure = receding areas.
- Hormonal shifts: Especially during pregnancy or menopause.
- Genetics: 30% of people are naturally more prone.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Gum Recession?
Gum recession doesn’t just stop on its own. Without care, it can quietly lead to deeper damage – including:
01
Sharp tooth sensitivity
02
Decay where brushing can’t reach
03
Loose or shifting teeth
04
Bone loss in the jaw
05
Visible gaps in your smile
It’s also a self-perpetuating cycle: the more your gums recede, the easier it is for bacteria to settle in and speed up the process.
Clinical Note:
Our San Clemente and Mission Viejo patients often don’t realize they have moderate gum recession until a deep cleaning reveals it.
How to Stop Receding Gums From Getting Worse
You can’t regrow gum tissue on your own – but you can protect what you have with the right routine:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions
- Treat grinding or bite misalignment with a night guard or Invisalign
- Floss daily to prevent buildup
- Schedule cleanings every 3–4 months if you’re at higher risk
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash like CloSys
- Quit tobacco
How to Fix Receding Gums: Treatment Options
Depending on severity, your Shoreline dentist may recommend:
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing): Removes plaque and smooths tooth roots so gums can reattach more easily. Often combined with topical antibiotics.
- Tissue Grafting: Adds new gum tissue to cover exposed roots using a small sample from your mouth.
- Bone Regeneration Surgery: Used if bone loss is involved. Regenerative material encourages new growth.
- Laser Therapy: Minimally invasive. Targets infected pockets without cutting gum tissue.
Other Ways to Protect Your Smile
If you’re dealing with gum recession, you may also benefit from:
Quiz:
Should You Talk to a Dentist About Gum Recession?
Let’s find out if it’s time to book that visit.
Real Solutions for Healthier Gums
At Shoreline Dental Studio, we don’t just spot gum recession – we treat its root causes. From deep cleanings and laser therapy to customized prevention plans, our team uses advanced diagnostics to protect your smile and stop progression early. With two locations in Mission Viejo and San Clemente, expert care is always close.
Reserve your appointment and protect your smile!
Dr. Danielle Winters, DDS
Restoration & Cosmetic Specialist | Shoreline Dental Studio
With advanced training in full mouth rehabilitation and years of experience treating gum disease, aesthetic concerns, and bone loss, Dr. Winters blends clinical precision with a calm, clear approach to care.
Share Our Story!
Latest News
Stay updated with the latest from Shoreline Dental Studio. Get news, tips, and more from our team of specialists.
