Gum Recession: Why It Happens and How to Treat It
If your teeth look longer than they used to, or you feel a sharp twinge when you drink something cold, you may be noticing the early signs of gum recession. This is a common concern we see at our clinic in Sector 15, Gurugram, and the good news is that it is both explainable and treatable when caught early.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It usually develops slowly over years, so many patients do not notice it until the change becomes visible.
- Gum disease (periodontitis): Bacterial infection breaks down gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Teeth grinding or clenching: Excess force on teeth can contribute to gum and bone loss.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco reduce blood flow to the gums, slowing healing and increasing recession risk.
- Genetics: Some people naturally have thinner gum tissue, making them more prone to recession.
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues: Uneven pressure on certain teeth can wear away the gums around them faster.
- Piercings or trauma: Lip or tongue piercings can rub against gums and cause localized recession.
Why Exposed Roots Are a Concern
Once the root surface is exposed, it lacks the protective enamel covering that the crown of the tooth has. This creates several risks that are worth taking seriously.
- Sensitivity: Exposed roots react to hot, cold, sweet, or even cold air, causing discomfort during eating or brushing.
- Root decay: Root surfaces are softer than enamel and more prone to cavities.
- Further gum and bone loss: Without treatment, recession tends to progress, sometimes threatening the tooth's long-term stability.
- Cosmetic changes: A "longer teeth" appearance or uneven gum line can affect confidence when smiling.
How Gum Recession Is Diagnosed
During a dental check-up, we measure the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth and check how much of the root is exposed. This helps determine whether the cause is gum disease, mechanical wear, or a combination of factors, and guides which treatment will help most.
Treatment Options for Gum Recession
Treatment depends on how much recession has occurred and whether there is active infection involved.
1. Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
For recession linked to early gum disease, a thorough deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This helps calm inflammation and can stop recession from progressing further.
2. Correcting Brushing Technique
If aggressive brushing is the cause, switching to a soft-bristled brush and gentler technique can prevent further damage, though it will not reverse existing recession.
3. Desensitizing Treatments
For root sensitivity, desensitizing pastes, varnishes, or in-office applications can reduce discomfort while other treatment is planned.
4. Splinting or Bite Adjustment
If grinding or an uneven bite is contributing to recession, a night guard or minor bite correction may be recommended to reduce pressure on affected teeth.
5. Gum Grafting
For more advanced recession, gum grafting can restore lost tissue. A small amount of tissue is taken from the palate or a suitable graft material and placed over the exposed root to cover it and protect the tooth. This is typically considered when recession is significant, sensitivity is persistent, or there is a risk to the tooth's long-term health.
| Treatment | Best For | Typical Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Scaling and root planing | Early recession with gum disease | 2,000 to 6,000 |
| Desensitizing treatment | Root sensitivity management | 500 to 2,000 per session |
| Night guard for grinding | Recession linked to bruxism | 3,000 to 8,000 |
| Gum grafting (per site) | Advanced recession, exposed roots | 8,000 to 20,000 |
These are typical ranges for Sector 15, Gurugram and the final cost depends on the number of teeth involved, the technique used, and your specific gum condition. An in-person examination gives the most accurate picture.
Can Gum Recession Be Prevented?
While some causes like genetics cannot be controlled, you can lower your risk by using a soft-bristled brush, avoiding excessive pressure while brushing, treating grinding habits early, and keeping up with regular dental check-ups so gum problems are caught before they progress.
If you have noticed longer-looking teeth, gum sensitivity, or discomfort near your gumline, an early visit can make a real difference in how simple your treatment will be. Our team at Usha Dental Clinic, Sector 15, Gurugram, can assess your gums and recommend the right next step for your situation.
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Usha Dental Clinic · B6, Vinayak Plaza, Sector 15, Gurugram
Frequently asked questions
Can receded gums grow back on their own?
No, gum tissue does not regenerate on its own once it recedes. However, treatment can stop further recession and gum grafting can cover exposed roots in suitable cases.
Is gum recession always caused by poor oral hygiene?
Not always. While gum disease is a common cause, brushing too hard, teeth grinding, tobacco use, and even genetics can lead to recession even with good oral hygiene habits.
How do I know if I need a deep cleaning or a gum graft?
This depends on how much gum tissue has been lost and whether the underlying bone is affected. A dental check-up with gum measurements is the best way to know which treatment suits your case.
Does gum graft surgery hurt?
Modern gum grafting is done under local anaesthesia and most patients report only mild discomfort afterward, managed with regular pain relief medication for a few days.
Treatment costs mentioned on this page are indicative ranges for the Sector 15, Gurugram region. Your exact cost depends on your case and will be confirmed after a clinical examination at the clinic.