What Causes Receding Gums?

Maybe a tooth suddenly looks longer than its neighbours. Maybe cold water hits a spot that never used to be sensitive. Gum recession — the gum tissue pulling back and exposing more of the tooth, sometimes the root itself — develops so gradually that most people don’t notice until it’s well underway. Understanding what’s driving it is the first step to stopping it.

The main causes

1. Gum disease

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of recession. As plaque and tartar accumulate below the gumline, the resulting infection breaks down the tissue and bone that hold gums in place. If your gums also bleed, look red or feel tender, start with our articles on bleeding gums and gum disease treatment.

2. Brushing too hard

Enthusiasm isn’t a virtue here. Scrubbing aggressively with a medium or hard-bristled brush wears away gum tissue over years — often most visibly on the canines and premolars, the teeth that catch the most brushing force. The fix isn’t brushing less; it’s a soft brush, light pressure and small circular motions.

3. Grinding and clenching

Bruxism puts heavy lateral forces on teeth, which can stress the thin gum and bone on the outer surfaces. Many grinders have no idea they do it — a worn bite, morning jaw soreness or TMJ symptoms are common clues. A custom nightguard protects both teeth and gums.

4. Genetics and anatomy

Some people are simply born with thinner gum tissue or teeth positioned toward the outside of the jawbone, leaving less coverage to begin with. If a parent had significant recession, it’s worth watching yours more closely.

5. Other contributors

Smoking and vaping impair gum circulation and healing. Oral piercings (lip or tongue) mechanically rub the gum away. Misaligned teeth concentrate force in vulnerable spots. And hormonal changes can make gum tissue more fragile.

Why recession matters

Exposed root surfaces have no enamel — they’re softer, more sensitive, and more prone to decay and wear. Recession also removes part of the tooth’s supporting seal, and severe recession can threaten the tooth itself. And unlike many gum problems, receded tissue doesn’t grow back on its own — we explain why in Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

What can be done

The plan depends on the cause and severity:

• Stop the cause first. Treating gum disease, correcting brushing technique, or fitting a nightguard prevents further loss — and for mild cases, that may be all that’s needed.
• Protect exposed roots. Fluoride treatments and desensitizing measures manage sensitivity and decay risk.
• Restore coverage. For recession that needs correction, the Pinhole Surgical Technique repositions your existing gum tissue over exposed roots through a small entry point — no scalpel, no grafting from the palate, and typically a much easier recovery than traditional grafting. We compare the approaches in Pinhole Treatment vs. Traditional Gum Grafting.

Noticed your gums changing?

The earlier recession is assessed, the more options you have — and the simpler they are. Our team can identify what’s driving it and map out a plan to stop it.

Call (613) 932-2058 or request an appointment.

FAQ

How do I know if my gums are receding?

Teeth looking longer, sensitivity near the gumline, visible yellowish root surface, notches you can feel at the gumline, or gaps appearing between teeth and gums.

Can receding gums fix themselves?

No — lost gum tissue doesn’t regenerate on its own. But progression can be stopped, and coverage can be restored with treatment.

Is gum recession just part of aging?

Recession is common with age but not inevitable. “Long in the tooth” reflects accumulated causes — disease, wear, grinding — not aging itself.

Does the Pinhole technique work for everyone?

It treats many recession cases very well, but suitability depends on the cause, the amount of remaining tissue and overall gum health. An assessment will confirm whether you’re a candidate.

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This article is provided for general education and does not replace a dental examination, diagnosis, or individualized treatment plan.

Related articles: Can Receding Gums Grow Back? · Pinhole Treatment vs. Traditional Gum Grafting · Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Brush?