Why Are My Gums Disappearing?

Have you noticed your gums are starting to recede? Is it making your teeth look larger, exposing parts of the teeth that shouldn’t be, making brushing or eating more painful, or causing other problems?

The truth is people experience gum recession due to several dental health problems, such as periodontitis, cavities, and improper dental care at home. The good news is we can help fix it.  

At Downtown Dental Studio, we offer safe, effective treatments for gum recession and other issues. Our providers — Fadi Beydoun, DMD, MS, Alexander Kimon, DMD, and Karina Zaygermakher, DMD — are here to help you feel good about your smile, no matter what! 

Why gums recede 

Gum recession occurs when there is something wrong with your gums. It causes the gums to pull back and expose the tooth root, which can be dangerous and painful. Your tooth roots are highly sensitive, so when the gums pull back, you’ll feel and see it. 

Your gums could recede for several reasons. Maybe you got a lip or tongue piercing that resulted in an infection, or you chew tobacco or brush your teeth excessively. These things can cause gum recession, but there are two common reasons for this problem. 

The first is age. As people age, they are more likely to see their gums recede. The second is periodontal disease. Unfortunately, these two issues often go hand-in-hand. Just over 70% of adults 65 and older suffer from periodontal disease. But there are some cases in which gum recession may be prevented. 

Preventing gum recession

Some people are simply predisposed to gum recession. This means their genetic makeup — usually involving having thin gums — makes it harder for them to avoid this problem. But there are several things you can do to give prevention a good shot. 

Brush your teeth twice daily (not too hard, of course!), floss once daily, and use antimicrobial mouthwash. If you already have thin gums, it’s best to avoid smoking or chewing tobacco, but this is true for everyone. Also, visit your dentist for regular cleanings twice a year. Certain areas are hard to reach with a toothbrush, and plaque can build up.

Preventing gum recession is often possible, but what if the issue has already taken hold? What should you do if your gums are disappearing, causing pain, discomfort, and cosmetic woes? 

Treatment for receding gums 

Receding gums don’t grow back on their own, even if you start taking better care of your teeth. This is because the damage is done, and gum disease has usually already taken hold. Instead, it would help if you visited your provider to determine the best course of action. 

There are some nonsurgical treatments available, including bonding and antibiotics. They can be helpful in cases of minor recession that only creates cosmetic issues or mild infection. But if you’re already dealing with severe gum recession and disease, you’ll likely need gum surgery.

Bone or gum graft surgery involves using donor tissue in the places where your gum line has receded. This surgery can be highly effective for both your health and the look of your teeth, and your provider can offer you a detailed after-care plan once you decide you’re ready for the procedure. 

Can anything be done about my receding gums? 

Yes, your receding gums can be fixed, depending on the issue behind them and whether or not you’re suffering from a more severe, underlying issue. To learn more, make an appointment at our New York City office in the Financial District. Call us at 212-964-3337 today.