Gum Recession: Why It Happens and How to Treat It
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue around your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It is one of the most common dental concerns we see at our Mayfield Garden clinic, and it tends to develop slowly, which means many patients in Gurugram do not notice it until the teeth start looking longer or feeling sensitive.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Gum recession rarely has just one cause. It usually results from a combination of habits, dental conditions, and sometimes genetics.
- Gum disease (periodontal disease): Plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline can cause inflammation that breaks down gum tissue and the bone beneath it.
- Aggressive brushing: Using a hard-bristled brush or scrubbing too hard can gradually wear away healthy gum tissue.
- Teeth grinding and clenching: Excess force on teeth can contribute to gum and bone loss over time.
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues: Teeth that sit outside the normal jaw arch often have thinner gum covering, making them more prone to recession.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are linked to higher rates of gum disease and recession.
- Genetics: Some people naturally have thinner or more delicate gum tissue, making recession more likely even with good oral care.
- Piercings and trauma: Lip or tongue piercings can rub against the gums and cause localized recession.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Gum recession often develops gradually, so it helps to know what to look for during your daily routine.
- Teeth appearing longer than before
- Visible yellowish root surface near the gumline
- Increased sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods and drinks
- A notch or indentation felt near the gumline
- Gums that look uneven from one tooth to the next
- Food getting trapped more easily between teeth
If you notice any of these signs, it is worth getting a gum check rather than waiting, since recession tends to progress over time without treatment.
How Gum Recession Is Diagnosed
At your visit, the dentist will measure gum pocket depths around each tooth, check for bleeding or inflammation, and assess how much root surface is exposed. An X-ray may be taken to check the bone level supporting your teeth. This helps determine whether the recession is mild, moderate, or advanced, and whether it is still actively progressing.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the recession. Our approach is always to start with the least invasive option that addresses the underlying issue.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
If gum disease is the cause, a thorough deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surface. This helps gums reattach and reduces further recession from infection and inflammation.
Changes to Brushing Technique
If aggressive brushing is the issue, switching to a soft-bristled brush and learning a gentler technique can stop further recession, though it will not reverse tissue already lost.
Night Guards for Grinding
If clenching or grinding is contributing to the problem, a custom night guard can reduce the pressure on your teeth and gums.
Bite Correction or Orthodontic Treatment
When misaligned teeth are a factor, orthodontic treatment may help distribute bite forces more evenly and reduce strain on thin gum areas.
Gum Graft Surgery
For more advanced recession, especially where roots are significantly exposed, a gum graft procedure can help. This involves taking a small piece of tissue, often from the roof of the mouth or a donor source, and placing it over the exposed root area to restore gum coverage and protect the tooth.
| Treatment | Best For | Typical Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Deep cleaning (per quadrant) | Early recession linked to gum disease | Typical range Rs 1,500 to Rs 4,000 |
| Night guard | Recession from grinding/clenching | Typical range Rs 3,000 to Rs 8,000 |
| Gum graft surgery (per site) | Significant root exposure | Typical range Rs 8,000 to Rs 25,000 |
These are general estimates for Gurugram and can vary based on the number of teeth involved, graft material used, and clinical complexity. Your dentist will give you a personalised estimate after examination.
Can Gum Recession Be Prevented?
While not all recession is preventable, especially when genetics are involved, you can lower your risk by brushing gently with a soft brush, flossing daily, visiting your dentist for regular cleanings, and addressing teeth grinding or bite issues early. Catching recession in its early stages gives you more treatment options and better long-term outcomes for your gum health.
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Artistree Dental and Cosmetic Clinic · Shop No 2, B Block Market, Mayfield Garden, Sector 51
Frequently asked questions
Can receding gums grow back on their own?
No. Gum tissue does not regenerate naturally once lost. However, further recession can often be stopped with proper treatment, and gum graft surgery can restore covered coverage over exposed roots in suitable cases.
Is gum recession painful?
It is not always painful at first. Many people notice sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods before they notice visible recession. Some cases progress silently, which is why regular dental checkups matter.
Does brushing too hard really cause gum recession?
Yes, brushing with a hard-bristled brush or using too much pressure over years can wear away gum tissue, especially near the gumline. A soft brush and gentle technique help protect your gums.
How do I know if I need a gum graft or just a deep cleaning?
This depends on how much gum tissue is lost and whether the recession is still active. Your dentist will examine your gum levels, bone support, and bite before recommending the right option for you.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.