Receding Gums: Why It Happens and How It Is Treated
If your teeth look longer than they used to, or you notice sensitivity near the gum line, you may be dealing with receding gums. This is a common concern we see at our clinic in Sector 57, Gurugram, and the good news is that it can usually be managed once the cause is identified and treated early.
What Causes Gums to Recede
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue around your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It develops slowly, so many people do not notice it until the change is quite visible.
- Gum disease (periodontitis): Long-standing plaque buildup causes inflammation that breaks down gum tissue and the bone underneath.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excess pressure on teeth can affect the surrounding gums and bone.
- Genetics: Some people have naturally thin gum tissue or teeth positioned in a way that makes recession more likely.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces blood flow to the gums, slowing healing and increasing risk.
- Orthodontic history or misaligned bite: Uneven pressure on teeth can cause localized recession.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or puberty can make gums more sensitive and prone to recession.
Why Receding Gums Matter
Receding gums are not just a cosmetic issue. Left untreated, they can lead to several problems:
- Tooth sensitivity: Exposed root surfaces react to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Higher risk of root cavities: Root surfaces are softer than enamel and decay faster.
- Loose teeth: Advanced recession is often linked to bone loss, which can affect tooth stability.
- Gum disease progression: Recession can be both a cause and a sign of worsening periodontal disease.
Catching recession early makes treatment simpler and helps protect your long-term oral health.
How Receding Gums Are Treated
Treatment depends on how far the recession has progressed and what is causing it. Our dentists assess gum pocket depth, root exposure, and bone health before recommending a plan.
1. Improved Home Care and Habits
For very mild recession, switching to a soft-bristled brush, correcting your brushing technique, and addressing grinding with a night guard can help stop further damage.
2. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
If gum disease is the cause, a deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surface. This helps gums reattach more firmly to the tooth and reduces further recession.
3. Pocket Reduction and Maintenance
For moderate cases with deeper gum pockets, additional periodontal treatment along with regular maintenance visits helps control inflammation and prevent progression.
4. Gum Grafting
When recession has exposed significant root surface or caused sensitivity and cosmetic concern, a gum graft may be recommended. This involves taking a small piece of tissue (from the palate or a donor source) and placing it over the exposed root to cover it and add thickness to the gum. This is typically done by a periodontist and helps protect the root while improving appearance.
5. Addressing the Underlying Cause
Alongside gum treatment, your dentist may recommend fixing a misaligned bite, treating grinding, or adjusting brushing habits so the recession does not return.
| Treatment | Best for | Typical range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Scaling and root planing | Early to moderate recession with gum disease | 2,500 to 6,000 per session |
| Night guard for grinding | Recession linked to bruxism | 3,000 to 8,000 |
| Gum grafting | Advanced recession with root exposure | 12,000 to 30,000 per site |
These are typical ranges for Sector 57, Gurugram, and the exact cost depends on the extent of recession, number of sites involved, and the technique used. Your dentist will confirm this after an examination.
When to See a Dentist
If you notice your teeth looking longer, gum sensitivity, or a change in how your gums look compared to a few years ago, it is worth getting checked. Early treatment is simpler, more affordable, and more effective at preventing further damage than waiting until the recession is advanced.
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Dr Aishwarya's Dental Clinic · Sector 57, Gurugram
Frequently asked questions
Can receding gums grow back on their own?
No, gum tissue that has receded does not regrow naturally. However, treatment can stop it from getting worse, and grafting can cover exposed roots if needed.
Is gum recession always due to poor brushing?
Not always. While brushing habits play a role, genetics, teeth grinding, gum disease, and even orthodontic history can cause recession, even in people with good oral hygiene.
How do I know if I need a deep cleaning or a gum graft?
Your dentist will check gum pocket depth, root exposure, and the overall cause. Mild cases often need deep cleaning, while more advanced root exposure may need grafting.
Does treating receding gums hurt?
Deep cleaning is usually done with local anesthesia and causes only mild discomfort afterward. Gum grafting involves a short healing period but is manageable with the medication your dentist prescribes.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Sector 57, Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.