The most common receding gum cause is periodontal disease. The gingiva must have bone support underneath to be held in place. When the underlying dental bone is lost due to infection and/or inflammation, the gum tissue recedes along with the lost bone. This causes the roots to be exposed with a resulting unpleasant smile. Occasionally, the supporting bone slowly melts away and the gingival tissues remain in their original place. This excess of gingival tissues is very unstable and with an acute periodontal infection, their can be immediate recession and root exposure.

          Another receding gum cause is tooth grinding. Grinding flexes the tooth and puts an enormous amount of pressure on the top of the bone around the neck of the tooth. The tooth root itself can begin to melt away causing a notch in the tooth called an abfraction. The supporting bone can be over-stressed and melt away also. This causes root exposure at the base of the tooth and is most common in the upper bicuspid area.

          Toothbrush abrasion is a receding gum cause also. It's the result of applying too much pressure to the bottom of the exposed crowns by using a cheap hard toothbrush and overzealously brushing. This is becoming less and less common because most toothbrush manufacturers now know to make softer bristle brushes with rounded ends to avoid this complication.

         Regardless of the receding gum cause, it looks terrible and it's difficult to correct. Most often gum grafting is performed but if there is no underlying healthy bone, the results may not be lasting. The best way to handle it is to prevent the problem by visiting the dentist regularly. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you are have a dental problem and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.