Gum Recession: Why It Happens and How It's Treated
If you have noticed your teeth looking longer than before, or you feel a sharp twinge when drinking something cold, you may be dealing with gum recession. It is one of the most common concerns we see at our Sector 45, Gurgaon clinic, and the good news is that it is very manageable when caught early.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth surface or even the root below. It usually develops slowly over months or years, which is why many patients only notice it once the root is already visible.
Why Do Gums Recede?
There is rarely a single cause. Most patients have a combination of the following:
- Gum disease (periodontitis): Plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline causes inflammation that slowly destroys the gum and bone supporting your teeth.
- Aggressive brushing: Using a hard-bristled brush or scrubbing too vigorously wears away gum tissue over time.
- Genetics: Some people are simply born with thinner gum tissue or teeth positioned in a way that makes recession more likely.
- Teeth grinding or clenching: Excess force on teeth can contribute to gum and bone loss around them.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces blood flow to the gums and slows healing.
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues: Uneven pressure on certain teeth can wear down the gum covering them.
- Lip or tongue piercings: Jewellery that rubs against the gum tissue can cause localised recession.
Health Risks of Untreated Gum Recession
Gum recession is not just a cosmetic issue. Left untreated, it can lead to:
- Tooth sensitivity: Exposed roots react strongly to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods.
- Root decay: The root surface lacks the protective enamel found on the crown of the tooth, making it more prone to cavities.
- Further gum and bone loss: Recession often signals ongoing gum disease, which can progress to loosen teeth if untreated.
- Tooth loss in advanced cases: Severe, long-standing recession combined with bone loss can eventually affect how firmly a tooth is anchored.
How Gum Recession Is Diagnosed
During a checkup, we measure the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth using a small probe and check for bleeding, plaque, and bone level on X-rays if needed. This tells us whether the recession is mild, moderate, or advanced, and whether active gum disease is present.
Treatment Options
1. Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
For recession linked to plaque and tartar buildup, deep cleaning is usually the first step. This removes buildup from below the gumline and smooths the root surface so gums can reattach more firmly. It also reduces inflammation and sensitivity.
2. Improved Home Care and Brushing Technique
We often guide patients toward a soft-bristled brush, gentler circular brushing strokes, and proper flossing technique. This alone can stop mild recession from getting worse.
3. Treating the Underlying Cause
If teeth grinding is contributing, a night guard may be recommended. If bite misalignment is a factor, orthodontic evaluation may help. Quitting tobacco is strongly advised where relevant.
4. Desensitising Treatments
For sensitivity from exposed roots, in-office desensitising applications or specific toothpaste recommendations can offer relief without surgery.
5. Gum Grafting
When recession is advanced, the root exposure is significant, or gum tissue is very thin, a gum graft may be recommended. This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue (often from the palate or using a suitable graft material) and placing it over the exposed root area to cover it and add thickness to the gum. It helps protect the root, reduce sensitivity, and can improve the appearance of the smile.
| Treatment | Best For | Typical Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Scaling and root planing | Mild to moderate recession with plaque buildup | Typical range: Rs 2,500 to Rs 8,000 |
| Desensitising treatment | Root sensitivity | Typical range: Rs 500 to Rs 2,000 per sitting |
| Night guard for grinding | Recession linked to bruxism | Typical range: Rs 3,000 to Rs 8,000 |
| Gum grafting | Advanced recession, significant root exposure | Typical range: Rs 12,000 to Rs 35,000 per site |
Actual costs depend on the number of teeth involved, severity, and the specific technique used. Your dentist will confirm this after an examination.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Book an appointment if you notice longer-looking teeth, sensitivity to temperature, a visible notch near the gumline, or gums that bleed easily. Early evaluation at our Sector 45, Gurgaon clinic can often mean simpler, less invasive treatment.
Have questions about your teeth?
Smiles By Dr. T · Plot No 35, Sector 45, Near ISKCON Temple, Gurgaon
Frequently asked questions
Can receding gums grow back on their own?
No. Gum tissue that has receded does not regenerate naturally. It can be stabilised so it does not worsen, and in more advanced cases a gum graft can cover the exposed root.
Is gum recession always painful?
Not always. Many patients notice sensitivity to cold or hot food, or simply see their teeth looking longer, before any pain develops. This is why regular dental checkups matter.
Does brushing too hard really cause recession?
Yes, aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled brush is one of the most common causes, especially when combined with a horizontal scrubbing motion instead of gentle circular strokes.
How do I know if I need scaling or a gum graft?
A dental exam with gum measurements will tell you. Mild to moderate recession linked to plaque buildup usually needs deep cleaning first. Grafting is considered when recession is advanced, root exposure is significant, or the gum tissue is very thin.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Sector 45, Gurgaon region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.