Recession gingival cause
Gingival recession occurs when gum tissue moves away from the crown, exposing root surface because of inflammation, trauma, or anatomy.
The short answer
Gingival recession is most often linked to gum inflammation, forceful brushing, thin gum tissue, tooth position, or trauma, and several causes can occur together.
Which part of the tooth is normally covered by the gum?
The gingiva normally covers the cervical part of a tooth and the root. When its margin migrates toward the root, cementum or dentine may be exposed; a dentist measures the site and checks the supporting bone and periodontal tissues.
What can you do to reduce further gum recession?
Use a soft brush with gentle pressure, clean between teeth, and have plaque or calculus removed when present. Treatment may include desensitising care, bite or brushing changes, periodontal therapy, or a gum graft when coverage is needed.
When should an exposed or receding gum be examined?
Book an examination if the gum is receding, bleeding, painful, or exposing a sensitive root. Prompt care is important when recession is progressing, a tooth feels loose, or there is swelling or pus.
What should be checked to identify the cause of recession?
Ask what caused the recession, whether bone loss or gum inflammation is present, and how much root is exposed. Ask whether monitoring, periodontal treatment, or a graft is appropriate for that tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Can brushing too hard cause recession?
Forceful horizontal brushing can contribute, particularly where gum tissue is thin or the tooth is prominent.
Can receded gums grow back on their own?
Gum tissue usually does not return to its former position without targeted treatment, although progression can often be controlled.
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.