Gum Recession: What Causes It, How to Stop It, and Why Brushing Too Hard May Be Making It Worse

Gum Recession: What Causes It, How to Stop It, and Why Brushing Too Hard May Be Making It Worse

By Dr. Dean Carlston

1. What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession happens when your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth—or even the root.  This can make teeth appear longer, feel more sensitive, and increase their vulnerability to cavities and infections.  In severe cases, it can lead to tooth loss.  It’s common, but not inevitable—and it’s something we can often manage together before it gets worse.

2. What Causes Gums to Recede?

There’s no single cause, but these are the most common contributors I see:
- **Brushing too hard**: Scrubbing your teeth like you’re cleaning grout will eventually wear away your gums.
- **Incorrect brushing technique**: Even with soft bristles, brushing at the wrong angle or too aggressively causes mechanical trauma.
- **Clenching and grinding**: These habits put stress on the tissues supporting your teeth and can accelerate gum loss.
- **Gum disease (periodontitis)**: Inflammation from bacterial buildup leads to gum detachment and bone loss.
- **Genetics**: Some patients are simply more prone to thinner gum tissue.
- **Misaligned teeth**: If teeth are out of alignment, they can put unusual pressure on your gums.
- **Tobacco use**: Smoking or chewing tobacco reduces blood flow and healing in the gums.

3. The Right Way to Brush—Without Hurting Your Gums

I can’t tell you how many patients mean well but cause harm by brushing too aggressively.  Here’s what I recommend:
- Use a **soft-bristled toothbrush**—always. Never medium or hard.
- Angle the brush at 45 degrees toward the gum line.
- Use **gentle, circular motions**, not back-and-forth scrubbing.
- Brush for two full minutes, twice a day.
- Don’t press hard. Think of it like polishing—not scraping—your teeth.
If you’re not sure if your technique is correct, bring your brush to your appointment. I’ll walk you through it personally.

4. Electric Toothbrushes: Helpful or Harmful?

When used properly, electric toothbrushes can be wonderful tools. They’re especially helpful for patients with limited dexterity or those who rush through brushing.

**Why they’re helpful:**
- Provide consistent movement and pressure
- Built-in timers encourage full brushing time
- Some models alert you if you’re pressing too hard

**But be careful:**
- Don’t use an electric toothbrush like a manual one. Let the brush do the work.
- Move it slowly from tooth to tooth, pausing gently at the gumline.
- Pressing too hard with an electric brush can still cause gum recession or enamel damage.

It’s not the tool—it’s the technique. When I recommend an electric brush, I demonstrate how to use it correctly.  If you have one, please bring it in and we will review the proper way to use it.

5. How We Treat Gum Recession

Treatment depends on the cause and severity.  In the early stages, we focus on stopping the damage:
- **Correct your brushing technique**
- **Switch to a softer brush or gentler toothpaste**
- **Address grinding or clenching with a night guard**
- **Treat gum disease with deep cleaning or laser therapy**

In more advanced cases, I may refer you to a periodontist for a gum graft or pinhole procedure.  These can help restore lost tissue and protect exposed roots.  The earlier we catch it, the more options we have.

6. My final Thoughts

Your gums are the foundation of your smile. They protect your teeth, anchor your bite, and support your overall health. Gum recession isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a sign your mouth is asking for help.

If you’re noticing sensitivity, longer-looking teeth, or notches near the gum line, don’t ignore it. Come in. Let’s take a look. We’ll discuss the causes, correct any habits that may be contributing, and create a plan that protects your smile for years to come.

We treat people, not just teeth. And that includes every inch of gum that holds your smile together.