Posted on 2/15/2025 by DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi Dental Care
Have you noticed your teeth looking longer? Do your gums seem to be pulling away from your teeth? If so, you may be experiencing gum recession. This is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. While gum recession is not always serious, it can lead to more serious problems if left untreated.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Several factors can contribute to gum recession, including:
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Gum disease (periodontal disease): This is the most common cause of gum recession. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues and bones that support your teeth.
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Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage your gums and cause them to recede.
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Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can both irritate your gums and make them more likely to recede.
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Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to gum recession than others.
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Misaligned bite: If your teeth don't fit together properly, it can put extra stress on your gums and cause them to recede.
What are the symptoms of gum recession?
The most common symptom of gum recession is teeth that appear longer than usual. You may also notice:
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Redness or swelling of the gums
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Sensitivity to hot or cold
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Bleeding gums
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Loose teeth
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Pain when chewing
How is gum recession treated?
The treatment for gum recession will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In some cases, simply improving your oral hygiene habits may be enough to stop the recession. However, if the recession is more severe, you may need oral surgery.
What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery is any surgical procedure performed in the mouth. There are many different types of oral surgery, but some of the most common procedures for gum recession include:
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Gum grafting: This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and grafting it onto the area where the gum has receded.
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Flap surgery: This procedure involves lifting the gum tissue away from the teeth, cleaning the roots of the teeth, and then suturing the gum tissue back into place.
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Bone grafting: This procedure involves using bone from another part of your body or a synthetic material to rebuild the bone that has been lost due to gum disease.
How to prevent gum recession
The best way to prevent gum recession is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. You should also avoid smoking and using tobacco products.
If you notice any signs of gum recession, it's important to see your dentist right away. Early treatment can help prevent the condition from getting worse and can help you keep your teeth healthy for years to come.
About | Dentist Spring Hill, FL | DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi We here at O'Sullivan, DeLuca & Ressel Dental Care want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Click to learn more about us! DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi Dental Care - Dr. James DeLuca DMD, Dr. Nick Ressel DMD, 3429 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill, FL 34609; (352) 666-9898; springhilldentist.com; 3/19/2025; Page Phrases: dentist spring hill fl;
Have you noticed your teeth looking longer? Do your gums seem to be pulling away from your teeth? If so, you may be experiencing gum recession. This is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. While gum recession is not always serious, it can lead to more serious problems if left untreated.