• Free Call 1300 315 540
  • Address

    Parramatta Clinic

    Parramatta Dental Clinic

    The Hall, 356 Church Street
    (Corner of Church and Palmer St)
    Parramatta, NSW, 2150

    Maroubra Clinic

    Maroubra Dental Clinic

    Office 1, 822 Anzac Parade
    Maroubra, NSW, 2035

  • Opening Hours
    • Mon to Wed 8am – 6pm
    • Thu 8am – 6pm
    • Fri 8am – 6pm
    • Sat 8am – 2pm

Dentist Journal

Gum Recession: Causes, Treatment & Smile Protection

Gum Recession: Causes, Treatments, and How to Protect Your Smile

It is not unusual for patients to only spot their gum recession when comparing photos. The dental condition happens slowly – gums pull back from teeth, showing more tooth and sometimes the root below, leading to sensitivity, decay and potential tooth loss. 

Gum recession affects nearly half of adults over 30, though most don’t realise they have it until significant damage has occurred. When caught early by dentists in Parramatta, treatment options are simpler and outcomes generally better.

 

The Early Stages

Bacteria remain the main culprit behind receding gums. It starts with swollen, red gums. Left untreated by dentists in Parramatta, the bacteria attack the structures holding teeth in place. About one in three Australians have serious gum disease, but many experience no pain until advanced stages.

 

Why Your Gums Might Be Receding

Several factors can make your gums pull away from your teeth: 

 

Too Much Pressure While Brushing

Patients often don’t realise they’re damaging gums by brushing too hard. Firm bristles and aggressive scrubbing wear away gum tissue over time. It’s a case of trying too hard that backfires, as they use techniques that harm rather than help. 

 

Your Family History

Some patients inherit thin gum tissue, just like thin skin. If your parents had gum problems, you might be more prone, too. While you can’t change genetics, knowing your risks helps you take extra care. 

 

Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding puts massive pressure on both teeth and gums. Many grinders have no idea they do it, especially at night. This unconscious habit can exert forces up to 120 kilos on back teeth, gradually pushing gums away from their proper position.

 

How to Tell If Your Gums Are Receding

Watch for these warning signs: 

– Teeth looking longer than before

– Visible roots 

New sensitivity to hot or cold foods

– A notch where the tooth meets the gum

– Gaps forming between teeth

– Changes in how your bite feels

 

If you notice any of these, schedule an appointment with our dental clinic Parramatta right away.

 Need help with receding gums? The team at Parramatta Dental Avenue spots and treats gum recession early. Ring us today at 1300 315 540 to book your check-up.

 

Treatment Options for Receding Gums

The right treatment depends on what’s causing your recession:

 

Deep Cleaning With Dentists in Parramatta

For mild cases linked to early gum disease, thorough cleaning below the gum line helps. This removes build-up and smooths roots so gums can reattach. At Parramatta Dental Avenue, we use numbing to keep you comfortable. Many patients are surprised at how much improvement can occur with this non-surgical approach. 

 

Gum Grafts

Serious recession might need tissue grafting. This takes tissue from elsewhere in your mouth and places it where gums have pulled back. Most patients handle the treatment well, with high success rates. While the procedure might sound intimidating, our patients typically report less discomfort than expected.

 

How to Protect Your Gums at Home

While our dental clinic can treat recession, these steps help prevent damage: 

 

Better Brushing Habits

Switch to soft bristles and gentle circles instead of harsh scrubbing. Electric brushes with pressure sensors help ensure you’re not pushing too hard. Proper technique matters as much as frequency – two minutes twice daily protects both teeth and gums. 

 

Get a Night Guard

For teeth grinders, a custom-fitted guard protects both teeth and gums. Unlike shop-bought options, custom guards fit properly for better protection. They’re designed specifically for your mouth and are more comfortable. 

 

Regular Dental Visits

Professional cleanings remove build-up home brushing misses, especially in spots where recession often starts. These visits also catch early warning signs before significant damage occurs. 

 

Quit Smoking

Smokers face a five times higher risk of gum disease. Quitting helps your gums heal and improves overall health. The toxic chemicals in tobacco reduce blood flow to gum tissue, limiting its ability to repair itself.

 

Protecting Your Smile Long-Term

Gum recession isn’t inevitable as you age. With proper care and regular visits to dentists in Parramatta, your gums can stay healthy for life. Our team has helped many patients stop the recession with targeted treatments. Ring Parramatta Dental Avenue at 1300 315 540 today to book your gum assessment.