Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth and eventually the root. It is gradual, so many people do not notice until a tooth looks longer or starts to feel sensitive. At Pikes Peak Periodontics in Colorado Springs, Dr. Ursula M. Price treats recession to protect both your comfort and your long-term oral health.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Several factors can contribute, often in combination:
- Periodontal (gum) disease, the most common cause
- Brushing too hard or with a stiff-bristled brush
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Genetics — some people simply have thinner gum tissue
- Tobacco use
- Misaligned teeth or a tight frenulum pulling on the gums
Why Recession Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Exposed roots are not protected by enamel, so they are more sensitive to hot and cold and more prone to decay. As recession continues, it can lead to bone loss and, ultimately, put the tooth at risk. Recession can also make your smile look uneven or make teeth appear long.
Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on the cause and severity. For tissue that has already been lost, gum grafting rebuilds the gum line using your own tissue, while a soft tissue allograft uses screened donor tissue to avoid a second surgical site. When gum disease is the underlying cause, treating the infection first — sometimes with laser therapy — is essential.
Just as important is addressing what caused the recession in the first place, whether that means switching to a soft-bristled brush, treating a grinding habit, or managing gum disease.
If your gums are receding, early treatment leads to the best outcome and the most natural-looking result. Call Pikes Peak Periodontics at (719) 548-1711 or request an appointment in Colorado Springs.
