Receding Gums – Causes, Treatment & Care in Basingstoke
Gum recession can be gradual and often painless – so it’s easy to overlook until your teeth start to look longer or feel more sensitive than usual. At Hampshire Dental Care, we regularly support patients with receding gums, helping to identify the cause, prevent further damage and protect both oral health and smile aesthetics.
Receding gums happen when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or even the root. This can lead to sensitivity, a higher risk of decay, and changes in how your smile looks. While gum tissue doesn’t grow back on its own, there are ways we can help stop it from getting worse – and in some cases, restore and reinforce the area.
If you've noticed any signs of gum recession or are simply unsure if your gums are as healthy as they should be, we’re here to assess, explain, and treat the issue with expert, personalised care.
What Causes Receding Gums?
There are several reasons why gum tissue may begin to recede. Understanding the cause is key to planning the right treatment and preventing further damage. Common causes include:
Gum disease (periodontal disease)
The most common cause. Bacterial infection damages the gums and supporting bone, leading to recession if untreated.
Aggressive brushing
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away gum tissue over time.
Tooth grinding (bruxism)
This places excessive pressure on the gum line and can contribute to recession.
Poorly aligned teeth or bite
Uneven pressure from misaligned teeth can affect gum support.
Hormonal changes
Particularly in women, hormonal fluctuations can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable.
Tobacco use
Smoking or chewing tobacco affects gum health and healing.
Genetics
Some people are simply more prone to thinner gum tissue.
We’ll carry out a full gum assessment during your appointment and identify whether any of these causes may be contributing to the recession.
How to Stop Receding Gums From Getting Worse
If you’ve been told you have receding gums – or suspect something’s changed – early action makes a big difference. Here’s how we help patients prevent further gum recession:
1. Treat Any Underlying Gum Disease
We’ll begin by checking for signs of gingivitis or periodontitis. If present, we’ll provide professional cleaning, root surface debridement, and advice on how to maintain a healthy gum line at home.
2. Improve Your Brushing Technique
Gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush is key. We’ll demonstrate how to clean thoroughly without damaging your gums, and recommend the right tools and products.
3. Wear a Night Guard If You Grind
Bruxism can place pressure on the teeth and gums. A custom-made night guard helps protect both, especially while you sleep.
4. Realign the Bite (If Needed)
In some cases, correcting your bite with Invisalign or minor adjustments can reduce pressure on specific teeth and help stabilise gum health.
5. Routine Monitoring and Hygiene Appointments
Regular check-ups and professional cleans keep plaque and bacteria under control, and allow us to monitor any changes in gum levels over time.
While recession can’t always be reversed naturally, these steps are highly effective in stopping it from progressing – and helping you maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.
Treatment for Receding Gums
Once we’ve addressed the cause of your gum recession, we can talk about treatment options to manage sensitivity and restore gum balance.
Desensitising and Protective Treatments
We can apply fluoride gels or bonding materials to exposed roots to reduce sensitivity and protect against decay.
Composite Bonding or Veneers
In visible areas, cosmetic treatments like composite bonding or porcelain veneers can mask exposed root surfaces and restore aesthetics.
Referral for Gum Grafting (if appropriate)
In more advanced cases, we may refer you to a specialist for soft tissue grafting. This surgical procedure involves taking tissue from another area (often the palate) and attaching it where gum has receded.
We’ll always tailor our advice to the severity of your recession and what’s right for your oral health in the long term.
Why Choose Hampshire Dental Care?
We’re experienced in treating both early and advanced gum issues – and we do so with a kind, professional approach. Whether your gum recession is mild or more established, we’ll help you understand what’s happening and what can be done to help.
Our team in Basingstoke uses modern diagnostic tools and clear communication to guide you through your options. We never over-treat, and always focus on protecting your natural teeth and gums for as long as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can receding gums grow back?
Not naturally. Once gum tissue is lost, it doesn't regenerate on its own. However, we can treat the cause, protect the exposed area, and in some cases, use grafting procedures to restore gum coverage.
Does gum recession always mean gum disease?
Not always. Recession can occur due to overbrushing, grinding or genetics even in the absence of active disease. We’ll assess whether gum disease is involved during your exam.
Are receding gums a dental emergency?
No, but they do need attention. Ignoring gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, root decay, and eventually tooth loss, so it’s best to act early.
What’s the best toothbrush for receding gums?
We recommend a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor. Technique is just as important as the brush itself – brushing gently is key.
Can Invisalign help with receding gums?
Yes – in some cases. If an uneven bite is putting pressure on certain teeth and contributing to recession, Invisalign can help realign the bite and reduce further gum wear.
If you’ve noticed your teeth looking longer, your gums pulling back, or an increase in sensitivity, we’re here to help. Book an appointment with our Basingstoke team today and let’s protect your smile from further damage – starting with expert advice and personalised care.
