What causes gum recession and how is it treated?

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Based on current clinical protocols at DenCos, Hoofddorp

Gum recession (gingival recession) is a condition where the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing the tooth root. It affects up to 88% of people over the age of 65, according to research cited by the American Dental Association, though it can begin as early as your twenties. Because gum recession happens gradually and is often painless, many people do not notice it until their teeth appear noticeably longer. At DenCos in Hoofddorp, gum recession is assessed and treated by Dr. Gang Wu — a registered periodontist (BIG 29918905102) who provides both non-surgical management and surgical reconstruction of receding gums.

This article explains what causes gum recession, how to recognise it, why it matters for your oral health, and what treatment options are available at DenCos.

What causes gum recession?

Gum recession has multiple causes, and in many patients more than one factor is involved. The Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic identify the following as the most common contributors:

• Periodontitis (gum disease) — the most common pathological cause. Bacterial infection destroys the gum and bone tissue that support your teeth, causing the gums to recede.
• Aggressive brushing — using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing with too much force wears away gum tissue over time.
• Genetics — some people inherit thinner gum tissue that is more prone to recession, regardless of their oral hygiene.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) — excessive force on the teeth can cause both bone loss and gum recession.
• Misaligned teeth — teeth that are out of position create uneven force distribution, which can cause localised recession.
• Hormonal changes — fluctuations during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause increase gum sensitivity and vulnerability.
• Tobacco use — smoking damages gum tissue and reduces blood flow, accelerating recession.

At DenCos, Dr. Gang Wu performs a comprehensive periodontal examination to identify the specific cause or combination of causes driving your recession. This includes measuring pocket depths, assessing bone levels with digital X-rays, and reviewing your brushing technique and habits. Accurate diagnosis is essential — treating the symptom without addressing the cause leads to recurrence.

How do you recognise gum recession?

Gum recession often develops slowly and without pain, making it easy to miss. The Cleveland Clinic lists these key signs:

• Teeth appear longer than they used to — the most visible sign
• Tooth sensitivity — exposed roots lack the protective enamel that covers the crown, making them sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods
• A notch or groove felt at the gum line when running your tongue along your teeth
• Visible root surface — the root appears yellow or darker compared to the white enamel above
• Bleeding gums — especially if recession is caused by periodontitis
• Loose teeth — in advanced cases, bone loss accompanies the gum loss

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a periodontal assessment rather than waiting for your routine dental check-up. At DenCos in Hoofddorp, Dr. Wu can measure the extent of recession precisely and determine whether intervention is needed. Early detection prevents the complications described in the next section.

Why does gum recession matter?

Gum recession is not just a cosmetic concern — it has real consequences for your oral and overall health:

• Root decay — exposed roots lack enamel and are significantly more vulnerable to cavities than the crown of the tooth.
• Tooth sensitivity — patients with recession often experience discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet items.
• Further bone loss — recession exposes the tooth to bacterial accumulation at the root surface, which can accelerate periodontitis and bone destruction.
• Aesthetic impact — uneven gum lines and visible roots affect smile appearance, which can impact confidence.
• Tooth loss — in severe cases, the combination of gum and bone loss compromises tooth stability.

Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences has confirmed that chronic gum inflammation — often associated with recession — is linked to systemic conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. At DenCos, Dr. Wu treats recession not only to preserve teeth and appearance but also to reduce the inflammatory burden on your whole body.

How is gum recession treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the recession, the underlying cause, and whether the root surface is still intact. At DenCos, Dr. Gang Wu offers the full range of non-surgical and surgical options.

Non-surgical treatment (mild recession)

• Optimised oral hygiene — switching to a soft-bristled brush, correcting brushing technique, and using desensitising toothpaste
• Professional cleaning — removing plaque and tartar to halt inflammation-driven recession
• Monitoring — regular measurements to track whether recession is stable or progressing
• Occlusal adjustment — if teeth grinding is contributing, a night guard or bite adjustment may be recommended

Surgical treatment (moderate to severe recession)

When roots are significantly exposed, surgical intervention is needed to restore gum coverage:

• Connective tissue graft (CTG) — the gold standard for recession treatment. Tissue is taken from the palate and transplanted over the exposed root. A systematic review in the Journal of Periodontal Research confirmed that CTG combined with a coronally advanced flap achieves the highest rates of complete root coverage.
• Free gingival graft — similar to CTG but uses a surface layer of tissue from the palate. Often used to thicken thin gum tissue rather than cover roots.
• Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) — a biocompatible membrane is placed over the recession defect to encourage the body to regenerate bone and gum tissue.
• Collagen matrix alternatives — for patients who prefer to avoid a palatal donor site, biocompatible collagen matrices can be used, though outcomes may be slightly less predictable.

At DenCos, Dr. Wu selects the technique based on your specific anatomy, the Miller classification of your recession, and your personal preferences. All surgical procedures are performed in-house under local anaesthesia, and detailed aftercare instructions ensure optimal healing.

Gum recession and orthodontic treatment

A common concern among orthodontic patients is whether braces or Invisalign can cause gum recession. The orthodontic treatment itself does not cause recession — but moving teeth through areas of thin bone or gum tissue can increase the risk if the periodontal condition is not monitored.

This is where the interdisciplinary model at DenCos provides a distinct advantage. Orthodontist Dr. Jing Guo (BIG 19918762902) and periodontist Dr. Gang Wu work side by side. Before starting orthodontic treatment, Dr. Wu assesses gum thickness and bone levels. During treatment, he monitors for any early signs of recession. If intervention is needed — such as a preventive gum graft — it can be performed without interrupting the orthodontic plan.

For patients in Hoofddorp, Haarlemmermeer, Haarlem, and Amsterdam, this coordinated approach means fewer appointments, shorter overall treatment time, and better outcomes for both your teeth and your gums.

How can you prevent gum recession?

Many cases of gum recession are preventable with consistent care:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush with gentle, circular motions — not aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing
• Clean between teeth daily with interdental brushes or floss
• Do not smoke — smoking is a major accelerator of gum recession and periodontitis
• Treat teeth grinding — ask your dentist about a night guard if you clench or grind
• Visit your periodontist regularly — every 6 months for healthy gums, every 3–4 months if you have a history of recession or periodontitis
• Address misaligned teeth — orthodontic correction can reduce uneven forces that contribute to localised recession

At DenCos, the dental hygiene team provides personalised brushing instruction and product recommendations tailored to your gum type. Dr. Wu emphasises that prevention and early intervention are always more effective — and less costly — than reconstructive surgery.

Next step

Noticing your teeth look longer, or experiencing sensitivity at the gum line? Do not wait for it to get worse.

Book a periodontal assessment at DenCos in Hoofddorp, or call us at 023-792 0463. Dr. Gang Wu will measure the extent of your recession, identify the cause, and recommend the most effective treatment. Appointments available Tuesday through Thursday until 18:30.