Aggressive Brushing
Brushing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush can wear away your gums over time.
Receding Gums
Schedule an AppointmentUnderstanding Gum Recession
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue around your teeth gradually pulls away, exposing more of the tooth and the root. It is a relatively common issue that often develops slowly, making it easy to overlook until it starts causing discomfort or becomes noticeable in the mirror.
At Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gum recession using advanced, evidence-based techniques designed to restore your gum health and help you feel confident in your smile again.
What Causes Gum Recession?
While gum recession can be influenced by age, it is not something that should be considered a normal part of aging. There are several possible causes:
Periodontal Disease
When the bone that supports your teeth breaks down due to gum disease, the gum tissue tends to follow.
Orthodontic Movement
Tooth movement during braces or aligner therapy can sometimes result in thin gum tissue in certain areas.
Genetics
Some people naturally have thinner gum and bone, making them more prone to recession.
Clenching and Grinding
This places stress on the gumline and can contribute to gum loss and notching in the tooth.
Oral Piercings
Lip and tongue jewelry can repeatedly irritate the gums, leading to significant loss of gum tissue over time.
What Are the Signs?
Many patients do not realize their gums are receding until they have lost a noticeable amount of tissue. Common signs include:
- Teeth that appear longer than before
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- Gumline notching or visible discolored root surfaces
- Tender, swollen, or inflamed gums
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
If you are noticing any of these changes, it is a good idea to schedule a visit with our team so we can evaluate your gum health and discuss the next steps.
Why Gum Recession Should Not Be Ignored
The roots of your teeth are not protected by enamel like the crowns are. When exposed, they are more vulnerable to wear, decay, and sensitivity. Over time, the root surface can become significantly worn down—even leading to nerve exposure or infection.
Even if your gum recession seems minor, research has shown it often continues to progress if left untreated. The earlier recession is addressed, the more manageable it becomes and the better the long-term outcome.
Schedule an AppointmentHow We Treat Gum Recession
At Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we offer several effective options for treating gum recession. Your treatment will be tailored to your specific needs, comfort, and goals.
Schedule an Appointment1
Soft Tissue Grafting
A gum graft can replace missing tissue and help recreate a healthy, protective gumline. We offer both traditional and minimally invasive approaches—including tunneling techniques that minimize disruption to surrounding tissue and support faster recovery.
2
Scaling and Root Planing
If gum disease is part of the problem, a deeper cleaning may be necessary to remove harmful bacteria and help your tissue heal.
3
Bite or Grinding Correction
If clenching, grinding, or bite imbalances are putting stress on your gums, we may recommend a nightguard or a referral to your general dentist or orthodontist to prevent further damage.
4
Gentle Oral Hygiene Support
We will walk you through brushing and flossing techniques that are effective without being too harsh. We can also recommend tools that are easier on your gums, like a soft or sensitive brush head and electric toothbrushes.
FAQs
Can receding gums grow back on their own?
Gum tissue does not regenerate on its own once it has pulled away from the tooth, so recession cannot be reversed without treatment. Gum tissue follows bone, so once there is recession present, there is bone loss. However, this lost tissue can be restored by moving it back into place and adding more tissue. A procedure like soft tissue grafting can rebuild the gumline and cover exposed root surfaces. During your consultation, we will assess how much tissue and bone have been lost and recommend the best approach for your smile. Our periodontists make sure you feel supported at every step.
Can receding gums be treated without surgery?
When gum recession is connected to bacteria beneath the gumline, a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing can help calm inflammation and make the tissue healthy. Gentle changes to your daily brushing habits can also protect your gums and slow further recession. In advanced cases, when the root is exposed or there is more tissue loss, a grafting procedure will be the best option. Your periodontist will recommend the most conservative option that will resolve your concerns.
Is a gum graft painful?
All of the techniques we use are centered around your comfort. We use the appropriate level of anesthesia during the surgery to keep it pain-free and then help you through the recovery process when your gums will be tender. We will make sure you are prepared with the right pain management strategies for after the surgery and review all of your anesthesia options before the appointment date.
How long does it take to recover after a gum recession treatment?
Recovery is often quicker and more comfortable than patients anticipate, especially with the approaches we use. Your healing timeline will depend on the treatment we perform, but you will always have the highest level of support. Each patient goes home with a folder full of information on how to care for their gums after the procedure, and we will follow up with calls to monitor your healing progress.
Are receding gums a sign of periodontal disease?
Receding gums can be a sign of periodontal disease, but they can also be caused by other factors like aggressive brushing or grinding/clenching. Because periodontal disease is one of the more serious possibilities, we always examine you carefully to rule it out. When gum disease is present, the bone and tissue that support your teeth can break down and allow the gumline to pull away. During your visit, we will examine your gums and then address our findings with the optimal plan for your long-term health.
Does dental insurance cover gum recession treatment?
Coverage always depends on the individual plan and whether treatments are considered medically necessary. Many periodontal procedures do receive some coverage, and we are happy to do everything we can to help you understand your financial options. Be sure to reach out to us with any questions about your treatment or the cost of surgery, and we can set up an appointment to discuss your situation.
A Healthier Smile Starts with Healthier Gums
Gum recession is treatable—and even preventable in many cases. Practicing good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush and staying consistent with your professional cleanings are important first steps. During your visits with us, we will keep a close eye on your gum health and provide personalized care to keep your smile strong and protected for years to come.
If you are concerned about receding gums, or you have been told you may need gum grafting, we are here to help. Our team at Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry combines advanced techniques with personalized, compassionate care to ensure your comfort every step of the way.
We are here to help protect your gums, preserve your teeth, and maintain a smile you feel confident in. Call us at 214-522-9700 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.
Park Cities Periodontics And Implant Dentistry
Phone: (214) 522-9700
Fax: (214) 522-8181
Address: Preston Commons, East Tower