What Causes Gum Recession?

Healthy gums do more than hold your teeth in place—they protect the roots, support the bone, and keep your smile balanced. When gums begin to recede, the roots of the teeth can become exposed, which often leads to sensitivity, a higher risk of cavities, and changes in appearance. Recession can also create small gaps—often called black triangles—between the teeth where gum tissue has pulled away. These spaces not only change how your smile looks but also trap food and bacteria. At Columbus Periodontics & Implants, Dr. Katherine E. Ferry helps patients understand why gum recession happens and how to protect against it.

Brushing Too Hard

Brushing diligently is important—but sometimes too much enthusiasm does more harm than good. Even patients with excellent oral hygiene can develop gum recession if they scrub aggressively in an effort to keep their mouths extra clean. Using excessive force or a hard-bristled toothbrush wears away gum tissue over time, leaving teeth sensitive and exposed. Switching to a soft-bristled brush or an electric toothbrush helps you clean thoroughly without over-scrubbing. The key is consistency and technique, not pressure.

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of gum recession. It begins when plaque and bacteria build up below the gumline, leading to inflammation and infection. As the

disease progresses, it damages the supporting tissue and bone, causing gums to pull away from the teeth. Untreated gum disease doesn’t just cause recession—it can eventually lead to loose teeth and even tooth loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for protecting your smile.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Grinding or clenching (bruxism) places extra force on the teeth and gums. Over time, this constant pressure can weaken the bone and gum tissue that support the teeth, contributing to recession. Because grinding often happens during sleep, patients may not realize they’re doing it until symptoms appear—like morning headaches, jaw soreness, or chipped teeth. A custom nightguard can protect your teeth and gums from this extra strain.

Genetics and Anatomy

Sometimes gum recession happens even when patients do everything right. Thin gum tissue, naturally prominent tooth roots, or a family history of periodontal issues can make certain people more prone to recession. In these cases, gums may recede despite excellent oral hygiene habits. If you know gum issues run in your family, it’s especially important to keep up with preventive visits and watch for early signs.

Other Contributing Factors

Orthodontic treatment, poorly fitting dental appliances, tobacco use, and even hormonal changes can play a role in gum recession. For example, braces may move teeth into positions that thin gum tissue struggles to cover fully, while tobacco use slows healing and reduces blood flow to the gums. Because multiple factors often overlap, professional evaluation is the best way to identify the specific cause in your case.

Treatment Options for Gum Recession

The right treatment depends on the cause and severity of the recession. For mild cases, adjusting habits—like brushing more gently or wearing a nightguard—may be enough to stop progression.

When more tissue has been lost, however, we look at treatments that actively restore support. Gum grafting is one option. In this procedure, a small amount of tissue—often from the roof of the mouth—is placed over the recessed areas to cover exposed roots and reduce the appearance of black triangles between teeth. It’s a reliable way to protect vulnerable areas and improve how the smile looks.

Another option is guided tissue regeneration. Instead of adding tissue from another part of the mouth, GTR creates the right conditions for your body to regrow its own gum and bone support. A small barrier is placed between the gum and tooth, which prevents unwanted tissue from filling in and gives bone and gum cells the space to regenerate. Over time, this helps rebuild the foundation around the teeth. Patients who benefit from GTR often see improvements not just in gum health, but also in the stability and long-term strength of their teeth.

Gum Care at Columbus Periodontics & Implants in Columbus, IN

If you’ve noticed your gums pulling back, your teeth looking longer, or small black triangles forming between your teeth, it’s time to have your gums evaluated. At Columbus Periodontics & Implants, Dr. Katherine E. Ferry provides advanced care to identify the cause of gum recession and recommend treatments—including gum grafting—that restore and protect your smile. Call our Columbus office or schedule a consultation online to take the first step toward healthier gums.

CONTACT