Receding Gums: Causes, Treatment Options, and What You Can Do Early

Receding gums are something many people notice but don’t always act on straight away. You might see more of your teeth showing or feel a bit of sensitivity when you brush or eat something cold. It might not seem serious at first, but gum recession can be a sign of underlying problems that could lead to tooth loss if ignored.

The earlier you catch it, the better your chances of managing it without needing complex treatment. Knowing the common causes, how it’s treated, and what you can do now can help you protect your smile for the long run.

What Causes Receding Gums?

Gums can recede for a few reasons, and it doesn’t always mean your brushing is bad. In fact, brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles is one of the top causes. It wears away the gum over time, especially if you tend to apply too much pressure.

Gum disease is another major cause. When plaque builds up around the gum line and isn’t removed properly, it leads to inflammation. If it progresses into periodontitis, the gums start to pull away from the teeth and can’t support them as well. Genetics, smoking, and even misaligned teeth can also make gum recession worse.

It often happens slowly, so by the time most people notice it, the damage is already done. That’s why regular check-ups and proper home care make such a difference.

What You Can Do Early

The first step is to pay attention to any changes. If your teeth are looking longer or feeling more sensitive, mention it at your next dental appointment. Your dentist can check the gum levels and see whether it’s just early irritation or something more advanced.

Switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing more gently can help stop the problem from getting worse. Flossing daily, avoiding tobacco, and using a non-alcoholic mouth rinse also helps protect your gums.

If your dentist thinks the recession is caused by gum disease, they may suggest a deeper clean or refer you to a Periodontist in Kiama for a more thorough assessment. Acting early gives you more options and less invasive treatments.

Treatment Options for Receding Gums

When gum recession is caught early, professional cleaning and good home care may be enough to stop it from progressing. In more advanced cases, deeper cleaning known as scaling and root planning is used to remove bacteria from under the gum line. This allows the gums to heal and reattach more closely to the teeth.

If the tissue loss is severe, surgical options like gum grafts might be needed. This involves taking a small piece of tissue from another part of your mouth and attaching it to the affected area. While it sounds intense, it’s a common and effective procedure done by specialists.

Seeing a Periodontist in Kiama is the best move if you’ve had ongoing gum issues or your dentist has noticed more than mild recession. A periodontist specialises in treating gum problems and has the tools and training to manage the condition before it threatens your teeth.

Staying Ahead of the Problem

Once your gums start to recede, they don’t usually grow back on their own. That’s why prevention and early care are key. Stick to a routine that includes gentle brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, speak to your dentist about a night guard — this pressure can also push gums back over time.

Gum health is easy to overlook, but it plays a huge part in keeping your teeth strong and stable. Paying attention now could save you from bigger problems — and bigger bills — later on.