Receding gums — causes and treatments

The honest answer: receding gums happen when the gum tissue pulls back and exposes more of the tooth or its root, and while recession that has already happened does not grow back on its own, the right care can slow or stop it getting worse. The first step is finding out why your gums are receding, because the cause guides what helps, from a change in brushing technique to treating gum disease, and in some cases a referral to a specialist.

What are receding gums?

Gum recession is the gradual loss of gum tissue at the margin where the gum meets the tooth. As the gum moves back, more of the tooth and eventually the root becomes exposed. Because tooth roots are not protected by hard enamel, exposed roots can become sensitive and more prone to decay.

What are the warning signs of gum recession?

• Teeth that look longer than they used to.
• A notch or step you can feel near the gum line.
• Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods.
• Roots that look darker or yellower than the crown of the tooth.
• Gums that bleed, look red or feel tender (a sign of gum disease).

Recession often happens slowly, so it is frequently first noticed by a dentist at a routine check-up before you would spot it yourself.

What causes gums to recede?

There is usually more than one factor. Common contributors include:

• Gum disease (periodontitis): infection that destroys the gum and bone supporting the teeth.
• Brushing too hard or with a hard-bristled brush, which wears the gum away.
• Teeth grinding or clenching, which stresses the gum and bone.
• Smoking, which harms gum health.
• Crowded or misaligned teeth, or a thin gum type you may have inherited.
• Tongue or lip piercings that rub the gum.

Can receding gums grow back?

Gum tissue that has been lost does not regenerate by itself. The realistic goal of treatment is to stop further recession, manage sensitivity, and protect the exposed roots. Where appearance or root protection is a concern, there are surgical procedures that can cover exposed roots, and these are typically carried out by a periodontist (a gum specialist) on referral.

How is gum recession treated?

Treatment is matched to the cause, and often starts with the simplest, least invasive steps:

1. Address the cause: correcting a heavy brushing technique, switching to a soft brush, treating gum disease, or managing grinding with a night guard.
2. Professional cleaning: removing plaque and tartar above and below the gum line to settle inflammation, with deeper cleaning where gum disease is present.
3. Manage sensitivity: desensitising toothpaste or treatments, and fluoride to protect exposed roots.
4. Referral where appropriate: if recession is advanced or root coverage is needed, your dentist can refer you to a periodontist to discuss surgical options such as gum grafting.

The aim at a general dental visit is to diagnose the cause, treat what can be treated in general practice, and arrange specialist input when that is the right step for you.

How can I prevent gums from receding further?

• Brush gently twice a day with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth daily.
• Don't smoke.
• Treat grinding or clenching if you have it.
• Keep up regular check-ups and cleans so changes are caught early.

Frequently asked questions

Are receding gums a sign of gum disease?

They can be, but not always. Recession can come from gum disease, or from non-disease causes like heavy brushing or grinding. An examination is the way to tell which is driving it, because the treatment differs.

Does Berala Dental do gum grafts?

Surgical root coverage such as gum grafting is usually performed by a periodontist. We assess your gums, treat the underlying cause where we can, and arrange a referral to a specialist if grafting or other surgery is the right option for you.

Is gum recession an emergency?

It is usually a gradual problem rather than an emergency, but sudden gum swelling, severe pain or an abscess should be seen promptly. See our emergency dental page if you have acute symptoms.

Will sensitivity from exposed roots go away?

Sensitivity can often be managed well with desensitising products, fluoride and addressing the cause. Your dentist can recommend an approach suited to your situation.

Talk to a Sydney dentist about your gums

If your gums look like they are pulling back or your teeth have become sensitive, an examination will identify the cause and the best way to protect your teeth. Book online, call (02) 9649 6468, or click our WhatsApp to chat now: message Berala Dental on WhatsApp.

We review this article periodically so the information stays current for 2026.