Dental question about taxonomy:condition:receding-gums
Receding gums expose more of a tooth or root and can result from gum disease, brushing trauma, thin tissue, or tooth position.
The short answer
Receding gums mean the gingival margin has moved away from the crown, exposing more tooth or root; the cause needs a gum and tooth examination. Exposed root dentine can look longer, feel sensitive, and be more vulnerable to wear.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Gingival recession can be linked with plaque-induced periodontal inflammation, forceful brushing, a thin gum phenotype, a prominent tooth position, tobacco use, or local trauma. It may occur around one tooth or several and can progress without obvious pain.
What can you do next?
Use a soft brush with gentle pressure, clean between teeth, and ask about fluoride or desensitizing products for exposed roots. A dentist may remove plaque and calculus, treat periodontal inflammation, adjust a traumatic habit, or discuss root-coverage surgery when indicated.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange care for bleeding, pus, increasing tooth looseness, deepening gaps, persistent sensitivity, or a rapidly changing gumline. Facial swelling, fever, or severe pain calls for prompt assessment.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask how much attachment and bone support remain, whether periodontal pockets are present, and what is driving the recession. Ask which brushing method, desensitizer, restoration, or periodontal procedure fits your tooth and gum anatomy.
Frequently asked questions
Can receding gums grow back?
Gum tissue does not usually return on its own; treatment can control causes and selected periodontal procedures can cover an exposed root.
Does brushing cause recession?
Forceful technique or an abrasive routine can contribute, but recession has several possible causes that require examination.