Why Are My Gums Receding?

If you have receding gums, it means that your gum tissue is pulling away from your teeth, exposing one or more roots beneath. A common dental problem, gum recession affects some 88% of people over age 65. And a variety of factors can fuel its often painful symptoms.

At Rozenberg Dental NYC, on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in New York City, board-certified cosmetic dentist Dr. Lana Rozenberg is pleased to diagnose and treat gum recession so you can experience relief and improved dental health.

Let’s delve into this common conundrum, including underlying causes and what to do about your symptoms.

Receding gum symptoms

Given that your gums can recede in any area of your mouth, you won’t necessarily be able to spot your symptoms from the outside. The receding may also appear fairly subtle, while still causing problems. In other words, gums that gape open aren’t what leads most people to treatment.

Far more common symptoms of gum recession include:

• Pain near your gum line
• Sensitivity to cold, heat, and sweets
• Sensitivity while brushing or flossing your teeth
• Sensitivity that worsens during hormonal fluctuations, such as during menstruation, menopause, or pregnancy
• Tenderness during dental cleanings

If your gum issues carry on without treatment you can develop complications as well, such as loose or “wiggly” teeth or even tooth loss.

Causes of receding gums

Your gums may recede for a range of reasons, from your lifestyle or hygiene habits to genetic factors or diseases. 

Common causes include:

• Aggressive tooth brushing 
• Buildup of dental plaque or tartar
• Chewing or smoking tobacco
• Genetic predisposition
• Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease
• Inadequate brushing or flossing
• Injury to your gums
• Lack of professional dental care
• Lip and tongue piercings
• Misaligned teeth

One or numerous of these causes may underlie your symptoms. And in some cases, one factor fuels another. If you seldom floss or have dental cleanings, for example, you could end up with tartar buildup – which is a major risk factor for gum disease. 

What to do about your receding gums

No matter the cause of your gum recession, getting appropriate care is important – both for feeling better and for staving off potentially serious complications. When receding gums lead to gum disease, you could even run the risk of losing one or more teeth. 

Once Dr. Rozenberg assesses your teeth and gums, which may involve an exam and X-rays, she’ll recommend a treatment plan. Depending on the specifics of your symptoms, your plan may include antibiotics, a deep cleaning, dental bonding, or gum rejuvenation. 

Gum rejuvenation is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery that improves your gum tissue using a pin-like tool and collagen strips. Unlike gum grafting, which can only treat a few teeth per procedure, she can treat all of your affected gums in one hour.

To learn more about receding gums or get started on the path to treatment and relief, call Rozenberg Dental NYC or book an appointment through our website today.