Gum Recession: Causes, Treatment and What Helps (2026)

Gum recession is progressive — if untreated it can lead to bone loss and eventual tooth loss.

1. Aggressive Brushing (Most Common)

A hard brush or excessive pressure traumatises the gum and causes recession. Canines and premolars are particularly affected.

2. Periodontal Disease

Untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. Periodontitis erodes both the gum and the jaw bone.

3. Genetic Predisposition

Individuals with a thin gum biotype are at higher risk of recession. This is genetically determined.

4. Smoking

Smoking impairs gum circulation and slows tissue healing.

5. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism loads the teeth with excessive force and accelerates recession.

6. Ill-Fitting Braces or Dentures

Poorly fitted orthodontic appliances or dentures can press on the gum and cause recession.

7. Hormonal Changes

During pregnancy and menopause, the gum tissue becomes more fragile.

8. Tooth Position

Teeth positioned outside the line of the jaw bone (vestibular position) are at higher risk of recession.

• Teeth appear longer than normal
• Tooth roots become visible (yellowish in colour)
• Hot/cold sensitivity
• A notch felt at the gum line (palpable with a fingernail)
• Increasing gaps between teeth at the root level
• Bleeding gums on brushing (bleeding gums causes)

Home Measures (Preventive)

• Use a soft toothbrush — discard hard brushes
• Use gentle circular motions — avoid aggressive back-and-forth strokes
• Desensitising toothpaste (such as Sensodyne) — reduces root sensitivity
• Floss once a day — preserves gum health
• Stop smoking — the single most important lifestyle change

Professional Treatment Options

1. Conservative Treatment (Mild Recession)

• Brushing technique training: Demonstrating the correct technique
• Desensitising treatment: Fluoride varnish, bonding to cover the root
• Professional cleaning: Scale and polish

2. Gum Grafting (Moderate to Advanced Recession)

Tissue is taken from the palate or another site and transplanted to the recession area:

3. Pinhole Surgical Technique

A modern, suture-free, graft-free technique:

• A small pinhole is made to shift the gum tissue over the exposed root
• The tissue is supported with collagen strips
• Healing is very rapid (1–2 days)
• Multiple teeth can be treated in a single session

4. Orthodontic Treatment

In selected cases, moving the tooth back into the jaw bone can improve recession.

Yes — when the cause is removed, the recession stops:

• Correct brushing technique
• Control of inflammation with periodontal treatment
• Control of bruxism with a night guard
• Stopping smoking

However, lost gum tissue does not grow back on its own — a graft procedure is needed to rebuild it.

1. Soft brush + gentle technique — the most important preventive step
2. Floss once a day
3. 6-monthly dental check-ups and professional cleaning
4. Stop smoking
5. Night guard for bruxism
6. Balanced diet — rich in vitamin C
7. Mouthwash — antibacterial (short-term use)

For more on gum health:

• Gingivitis Treatment — Early-stage treatment
• Bleeding Gums Causes — What bleeding gums mean
• Dental Scaling and Cleaning — Preventive periodontal care
• Bone Loss Treatment — Advanced disease

1. Kassab MM, Cohen RE. The etiology and prevalence of gingival recession. J Am Dent Assoc. 2003;134(2):220-225. PubMed
2. Cairo F. Periodontal plastic surgery of gingival recessions at single and multiple teeth. Periodontol 2000. 2017;75(1):296-316. PubMed
3. Tonetti MS, Greenwell H, Kornman KS. Staging and grading of periodontitis. J Periodontol. 2018;89 Suppl 1:S159-S172. PubMed

Do you suspect gum recession? At Derya Dental Clinic in Maltepe we will assess your gums and explain your options.

📞 0216 572 05 20 💬 WhatsApp appointment

This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a specialist for decisions about your oral and dental health.