What Are Receding Gums?
Gum or gingival recession occurs when the gums pull away from the surface of the tooth, according to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). More of the tooth is exposed, but some people don't notice it right away. One of the first signs that your gums are receding might be increased sensitivity. If you eat something very hot or very cold, you'll feel a sharp pain in the tooth.
You can develop receding gums for several reasons, according to WebMD. The leading cause is gum disease, but certain habits, such as brushing very vigorously or using a hard toothbrush, can make your gums more likely to recede. Habits such as smoking, grinding your teeth or wearing lip or tongue jewellery can also contribute to gum recession.
Ignoring receding gums isn't a good idea. Left untreated, gum recession can cause you to lose teeth. Receding gums treatment options depend on the severity of the recession. If your gums have receded only a small amount, a deep cleaning at your dentist's office might be enough to treat them. Surgery is often an option in more severe cases.