Gingival recession causes
Gum recession exposes part of a tooth root and can result from inflammation, forceful brushing, thin gum tissue, tooth position, or trauma.
The short answer
Gingival recession occurs when the gum margin moves toward the root, exposing cementum or dentine. It may cause sensitivity, a longer-looking tooth, root decay risk, or a notch near the gumline.
Which factors can cause or worsen gum recession?
Recession can be linked to periodontal attachment loss, brushing with excessive force, a thin gum biotype, tooth movement outside the bone, clenching-related trauma, or local injury. The cause must be identified before treatment is chosen.
How can you protect an exposed tooth root at home?
Use a soft brush and light pressure, keep exposed roots clean, and use a desensitising fluoride toothpaste if needed. A dentist may monitor the area, treat inflammation or root decay, adjust hygiene technique, or refer for gum grafting when coverage is appropriate.
When does gum recession need assessment by a dentist?
Arrange care if recession is progressing, sensitivity persists, the root is decaying, the gum bleeds, or the tooth feels loose. Sudden recession after injury needs prompt assessment.
What could be causing the recession and how is it managed?
Is the recession caused by periodontal disease, brushing force, tooth position, or tissue thickness, and would monitoring, restorative care, or gum surgery help?
Frequently asked questions
Is the recession caused by periodontal disease, brushing force, tooth position, or tissue thickness, and would monitoring, restorative care, or gum surgery help?
Is the recession caused by periodontal disease, brushing force, tooth position, or tissue thickness, and would monitoring, restorative care, or gum surgery help?
Can home care replace a dental examination?
Home care can reduce irritation and plaque, but it cannot diagnose or remove causes such as decay, infection, calculus, cracks, or attachment loss.
Keep reading
Who wrote this page
This library is published by Dental Nation, a licensed dental group practising in the United Arab Emirates. Pages are written and overseen by the same clinical team that treats patients in our clinics, and are held to a fixed editorial standard for safety and accuracy.
This page is patient education, not medical advice, and cannot replace an examination. Anything urgent — facial swelling, trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or severe pain — needs a dentist or emergency care now.