Noticing that your teeth look a little longer than they used to? Maybe you’ve felt a notch near the gum line or noticed sensitivity to cold drinks that you never had before. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely dealing with gum recession. Receding gums is one of the most common concerns patients bring to our Santa Monica office, and while it’s common, it’s not something you should simply accept as a normal part of aging.
The truth is, gum recession is a symptom. It’s your mouth’s way of telling you that something is off balance. At Dr. Dall’olmo’s practice, we practice Bio-Emulative Dentistry, which means our first goal isn’t just to treat the symptom, it’s to understand the cause so we can preserve your natural smile for the long haul.
Here are the most common culprits behind receding gums, and what they mean for your oral health.
1. The Usual Suspect: Periodontal Disease
This is the leading cause of receding gums. When plaque builds up along and under the gum line, it creates an inflammatory response. Over time, this infection (periodontal disease) destroys the gum tissue and the bone that holds your teeth in place. The gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets and exposing the roots. The good news? When caught early, we can manage this and stop the progression.
2. The “Over-Brusher”
We love that you’re dedicated to oral hygiene. But if you’re using a medium or hard-bristled toothbrush and scrubbing back and forth like you’re cleaning a dirty pan, you might actually be brushing your gums away. Aggressive brushing wears down the enamel at the gum line and physically traumatizes the soft tissue, causing it to recede. We recommend a soft-bristled brush and gentle, circular motions. Let the bristles do the work.
3. The Alignment Factor
Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite aren’t just cosmetic issues. If one tooth is sitting outside the arch, the bone around it may be thinner. Furthermore, a “bad bite” can put excessive force on specific teeth. When a tooth is under too much pressure (often from grinding or clenching), the body may actually resorb some of the bone around it, leading to recession.
4. Anatomy and Genetics
Some people are simply born with thin gum tissue. Just like some people have thin skin that bruises easily, others have a thin biotype of gum tissue that is more prone to recession, even with perfect care. If your parents dealt with receding gums, you might be predisposed to it as well.
5. Piercings and Pressure
Lip or tongue jewelry can constantly rub against the gum tissue, irritating it to the point where it wears away. Similarly, habits like nail-biting or grinding your teeth (bruxism) put constant pressure on the teeth and their supporting structures, which can accelerate gum loss.
Why “Watching It” Isn’t Enough
In traditional dentistry, a small amount of recession might be noted and then simply monitored until it gets “bad enough” to warrant a graft. At our practice, we see it differently.
Because we focus on Bio-Emulative Dentistry, we look at recession as a threat to the integrity of your entire tooth. Exposed roots are softer and more prone to decay. They can cause significant pain. Left untreated, the lack of supportive tissue can lead to tooth loss.
If you’ve noticed changes in your gum line, don’t wait. You don’t have to live with the pain or the worry. Dr. Dall’olmo and our team are here to figure out the “why” behind your recession and create a plan to protect your smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.