Gum Recession; Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
Gum recession is when gums become pushed back or wear away, exposing the tooth’s root. When this happens, gaps form between the gums and the teeth. Bacteria can gather in these gaps, causing periodontal disease and wearing away at the teeth. This can lead to sensitivity and pain and can expose the teeth to infection, decay, and eventually, bone and tooth loss if left untreated. In advanced cases, the infection can break down the bone underneath, causing tooth loss.
Receding gum is a severe consequence of poor oral health, which may lead to tooth loss. Various treatments are available, depending on the severity of tissue loss.
Gum recession is a gradual process; many people don’t realize they have receding gums until it’s already occurring. Over time, stuck-on plaque damages the gums and causes them to fall back from the teeth.
Gum recession’s signs vary, including red or swollen gums, bad breath, mouth sores, and pain or bleeding when brushing or flossing.
According to the CDA, receding gums are most common in adults 40 and older. For this reason, it is often misconceived as a typical sign of aging. Also, more men than women develop receding gums.
Gum recession and its painful symptoms were once thought to be an inevitable sign of aging, but professional treatments and preventative steps can address the issue. Gum tissue does not grow back, so while gum recession is irreversible, there are things you can do to keep the problem from getting worse. 
Professional Treatments
Treatment usually depends on the cause of the gum problems. Depending on the cause and severity of your gum recession, your dentist may recommend one of the following procedures:
Deep Cleaning – A deep cleaning, also known as root planning or tooth scaling, can help address mild gum recession. Because bacteria have a more difficult time attaching to smoother surfaces, this process helps to protect your teeth and gums from infections.
Gum Contouring — Gum contouring is a procedure that can improve your gum health and your smile line. Your dentist will construct a newer, straighter gum line with a laser which helps keep the gum tissue healthy and easier to clean.
Surgery – If your gums already have pockets that are too deep or you’ve experienced too much bone loss, a deep cleaning won’t be enough to treat the gum recession. Bone regeneration and tissue or gum grafts are frequently recommended procedures to address receding gums.
Bone Regeneration – Regenerative surgery is needed when you’ve lost bone and gum tissue. The process is similar to deep cleaning and root planning. In addition to folding back the gums and cleaning the affected area, a material that encourages your body to regenerate tissue and bone on its own will be applied before the gums are secured over the roots again.
Visit the Dentist – Regular dental visits (i.e., every six months at a minimum) are the best way to stay on top of your oral health. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease and allow your dentist to monitor gum health for any signs of gum disease.
