Overview
Receding gums (gingival recession) happen when the gum margin pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can lead to sensitivity, notching near the gumline, food trapping, and a higher risk of root decay. The cause isn’t always obvious—several different problems can create similar symptoms—so a correct diagnosis matters.
If you’re unsure whether recession is due to gum disease, brushing habits, bite forces, or anatomy, a dentist or periodontist can examine the gums, measure pocket depths, assess bite and tooth position, and recommend the best next step.
Common causes of receding gums
- Gum disease (periodontitis) — inflammation and bone loss allow the gum to drop lower over time. See gum disease causes and treatment.
- Aggressive brushing or abrasive toothpaste — hard bristles, scrubbing, and gritty pastes wear the neck of the tooth and push the gum back.
- Clenching, grinding, or bite trauma — excessive forces cause micro-damage at the gumline (abfraction) and can contribute to recession.
- Thin gum tissue or tooth position — a naturally thin biotype or teeth positioned outside the bony envelope increases vulnerability.
- Orthodontic movement — moving teeth too far towards thin bone can predispose to recession if not planned carefully.
- Smoking or vaping — reduces blood flow and healing, making recession and gum problems more likely.
- Frenum pull or piercings — a tight frenum or lip/tongue piercings can mechanically pull on the gum margin.
- Restoration factors — overhanging or bulky fillings/crowns can trap plaque and irritate gums.
- Mouth breathing and dry mouth — dries tissues, increasing irritation and plaque retention.
More than one cause can be present. For example, early gum disease plus forceful brushing often leads to faster recession than either factor alone.
Receding gums risk factors
- Family history of thin gums or gum disease
- Smoking, vaping, or high plaque levels
- Diabetes or conditions that affect immunity
- Orthodontic history or teeth protruding outwards
- Stress-related clenching/grinding; high bite forces
- Hard-bristle brushes or whitening/abrasive toothpastes
- Dry mouth from medications or mouth breathing
How dentists find the cause
A thorough assessment may include:
- Gum charting to measure pocket depths and bleeding
- Bite assessment for clenching/grinding or traumatic contacts
- Review of brushing tools and technique
- Tooth position evaluation (photos, scans, or X‑rays)
- Checking restorations and frenum attachments
The findings guide the plan—periodontal care if inflammation is present, habit changes for brushing or grinding, orthodontic or surgical options if anatomy is the driver, and protection for exposed roots.
When receding gums are urgent
Book promptly if you notice:
- Sudden recession or a gumline that drops quickly
- Pain, swelling, pus, or a bad taste (possible infection)
- Loose teeth or deep pockets
- Exposed root with decay, fracture, or severe sensitivity
If pain or swelling is severe, see our Emergency Dentist guide.
Treatment depends on the cause
- Gum disease present — professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, improved home care, and maintenance. Advanced cases may need periodontal surgery.
- Aggressive brushing/abrasion — switch to soft/extra-soft brush or electric brush with pressure sensor, gentle technique, less abrasive toothpaste; desensitising agents or fluoride varnish may help.
- Bite trauma or grinding — adjust high contacts, consider a night guard, stress reduction, and in some cases orthodontic correction.
- Thin tissue or anatomy-driven — soft tissue grafts (connective tissue graft, coronally advanced flap, tunnelling) or orthodontic repositioning where appropriate.
- Root protection — bonding or composite coverage to shield notches and reduce sensitivity; high‑fluoride care to lower root‑decay risk.
For a full overview of options and what to expect, see Receding Gums Treatment and Receding Gums Recovery. For typical fees and ways to plan care, visit Receding Gums Cost and Payment Options.
Daily habits that help prevent recession
- Use a soft or extra‑soft brush; light pressure for 2 minutes
- Angle the bristles 45° to the gumline; short, gentle strokes
- Switch away from abrasive whitening toothpastes
- Clean between teeth daily (floss or interdental brushes)
- Wear a night guard if you clench or grind
- Stop smoking or vaping; keep regular professional cleans
If you also notice bleeding when brushing, see Bleeding Gums and Gum Disease Symptoms for early warning signs.
Questions to ask at your appointment
- What is the most likely cause of my recession?
- Is it urgent, and what happens if I wait?
- Which treatments address the cause vs. symptoms?
- What do the next 1–3 months look like, including reviews?
- What are the costs now and over the full course of care?
Confidential help
Get guidance on diagnosis, options, likely costs and timeframes, or help finding a clinic that suits your needs. Your enquiry is confidential, and this site connects Australians with relevant dental care and information.