Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. This exposes more of the tooth, sometimes even the root surface. This can cause sensitivity and increase the risk of damage and decay to the softer tissues of the roots.
Often, gum recession is an early sign that your gums need specialised attention. It is here that a periodontist – a gum health expert – can help.
In this article, we cover the following –
– what causes gum recession
– common receding gums treatment options that periodontists use
– the recovery process
What are the Causes of Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the soft tissue around your teeth slowly wears away. While oral hygiene can play a role, it’s surely not the only cause.
Several factors can lead to gum recession, including:
- Chronic gum inflammation (periodontal disease)
- Excessive brushing force or use of hard-bristled toothbrushes
- Use of tobacco products
- Hormonal fluctuations, especially in women
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Teeth misalignment or improper bite pressure
Treatment for Receding Gums: Options Provided by Periodontists
If you notice signs like exposed tooth roots, shrinking gums, bleeding when brushing, or increased tooth sensitivity, it’s a good idea to see a periodontal specialist. We are usually experts who are trained to diagnose and treat gum problems, including gum recession, using proven and effective methods.
Periodontists offer both non-invasive and surgical treatment options to manage gum recession effectively. The treatment will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Some options are:
Scaling and Root Planing
This non-surgical deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and hardened tartar from below the gum line. The roots of the teeth are then smoothed to make it harder for bacteria to reattach.
- This helps reduce inflammation
- Allows the gum tissue to heal, and reattach to the tooth.
- Performed under local anesthesia
- May require more than one visit
Gum Tissue Grafting
Gum tissue grafting is recommended when the recession is more advanced and the tooth roots are exposed. During this procedure, a small piece of healthy tissue, usually from the roof of your mouth (called the palate) or from donated tissue, is attached to the recessed area.
- This grafted tissue protects the exposed roots, reduces tooth sensitivity, and helps rebuild the gum line’s natural shape.
- Lowers the risk of further gum and bone loss.
- Healing can take a week or more
- Care instructions need to be followed closely during the healing process.
Minimally Invasive Pinhole Technique
This newer technique offers a less invasive alternative to traditional gum grafting. Instead of making large incisions, the periodontist makes a tiny pinhole in the gum tissue near the recessed area. Using special tools, they gently loosen the tissue and slide it over the exposed root surfaces.
- No sutures or grafts are required
- Less discomfort and a shorter recovery time.
- Best for mild to moderate recession and overall healthy gum tissue.
- Not everyone is a candidate. For those who are, it’s an effective and low-impact solution.
Laser-Assisted Therapy
In certain cases, lasers can be used as part of receding gums treatment to remove diseased or infected gum tissue gently. This method targets damaged areas without affecting healthy tissue and also sterilizes the area to reduce bacteria.
- This technique promotes faster healing
- Reduces bleeding and swelling
- Treatments like scaling and root planing often need to be combined to improve results
Bite Adjustment or Orthodontic Correction
If your gum recession is caused by misaligned teeth or an uneven bite, your periodontist may recommend:
- Orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners.
- Minor bite correction to redistribute pressure across the teeth and gums.
This helps reduce ongoing stress on specific teeth and gum areas, making it easier to maintain results after treatment.
What to Expect During Recovery
Healing after receding gums treatment depends on the procedure performed, your overall health, and how well you follow your post-treatment care plan. Below is a general guide to what recovery may look like:
After Scaling and Root Planing:
- Mild soreness and gum tenderness for 2–3 days
- Improved gum tightness and reduced inflammation
- Follow-up cleanings to maintain results
Thereafter Gum Tissue Grafting:
- Recovery usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks
- Eating soft foods and avoiding pressure on the treated area is recommended
- Brushing near the graft site should be paused initially
- Prescription rinses may be provided to support healing
After the Pinhole Procedure:
- Minimal discomfort and rapid healing
- Normal activities can often resume the next day
- Visible improvement in gum line appearance within days
Thereafter Laser-Assisted Therapy
- Mild sensitivity or tenderness for a day or two
- Stick to soft foods for the first 1-2 days
- Avoid touching and poking the treated area with fingers or tongue
- Follow-up visits may be recommended to monitor progress
After Bite Correction or Orthodontic Correction
- Mild soreness or pressure for a few days
- Slight speech changes at first
- Use of retainers or other appliances to support long-term alignment
Regardless of the procedure, your periodontal doctor will provide personalized recovery instructions and schedule follow-ups to monitor progress.
How to Maintain Results After Treatment
Once your gum health has been restored, it’s important to maintain it through daily habits and regular check-ups. Here’s how you can maintain results after treatment for receding gums:
- Brush using gentle, circular motions with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Clean between the teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes
- Avoid tobacco and limit sugary snacks
- Wear a night-guard if you grind your teeth
- Schedule dental exams and cleanings at least twice a year
The Risks of Delaying Treatment
Gum recession, if left untreated, can gradually lead to:
- Persistent sensitivity to temperature or sweet foods
- Increased vulnerability to root cavities
- Weakening of bone structure that holds your teeth in place
- Gum infections or abscesses
- Eventual tooth loss in severe cases
Conclusion: Treat Gum Recession Before it Progresses
Catching gum recession early is key to protecting your teeth and avoiding future, more serious complications. Whether you need a deep cleaning, grafting, or a more conservative intervention, personalized care can restore your gum line and protect your teeth for the long term.
Ready to Restore Your Gum Health with Periodontal Specialists?
If you have noticed your gum shrinking or have been experiencing sensitivity, it might be a good idea to book an appointment with our periodontists at Periodontal Specialists today. Our experienced team of periodontal doctor can help you explore advanced treatments in gum disease treatment, implants and gum tissue regeneration across our five Minnesota locations.
Based on your location, you can call us or book an online appointment with our periodontists today.
