Gum Recession

Gum Recession Treatment in Fort York

Gum recession occurs when the gum margin moves away from its previous position, exposing more of the tooth or its root. Treatment depends on the cause, severity, tissue condition, symptoms and the patient’s goals. Some cases may be monitored or managed without surgery, while others may benefit from gum-grafting or root-coverage treatment.

What Is Gum Recession?

Gum recession describes a change in the position of the gum margin so that more of the tooth, and sometimes the root surface, becomes exposed. An exposed root surface may affect sensitivity, appearance, how easily the area can be cleaned and the long-term stability of the surrounding tissue. The significance of recession varies between patients and between individual teeth, so each area is assessed on its own.

Common Signs

Signs that may be associated with gum recession include:

  • a tooth appearing longer

  • an exposed root surface

  • sensitivity to temperature or brushing

  • uneven gum margins

  • difficulty cleaning an area

  • concern about appearance

  • progression noticed over time

Why Gum Recession May Develop

Recession usually reflects a combination of influences rather than a single cause. Possible contributing factors include:

  • thin gum tissue

  • periodontal disease

  • tooth position

  • brushing trauma

  • inflammation

  • orthodontic movement

  • bite forces

  • previous dental treatment

  • natural anatomical variation

Not every factor applies to every patient. The factors relevant to an individual situation are identified during examination and discussion.

Assessment

An assessment of gum recession may include:

  • clinical examination

  • measurement of recession

  • gum-tissue thickness

  • inflammation

  • tooth position

  • bone support

  • brushing and oral-hygiene habits

  • bite considerations

  • dental imaging when appropriate

Treatment Options

Depending on the findings, the options discussed may include:

  • monitoring

  • oral-hygiene modification

  • management of inflammation

  • desensitizing care

  • restorative treatment when appropriate

  • gum grafting

  • root-coverage treatment

  • referral to or coordination with another provider when appropriate

When Gum Grafting May Be Considered

Gum grafting may be considered where additional tissue, root coverage, improved tissue stability or easier cleaning may be beneficial for a particular area. Suitability depends on the anatomy, the condition of the tissue and the goals agreed during treatment planning. Complete root coverage cannot be promised, and the realistic expectation for an individual case is explained beforehand.

About the Dentist

Dr. Maziar Shahzad Dowlatshahi is a general dentist in Ontario whose practice is focused on periodontal, implant, gum-surgery, oral-surgery and related surgical dental treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can receding gums grow back on their own?

The gum margin generally does not return to its earlier position without treatment. The appropriate management depends on the cause and clinical findings.

Does every area of gum recession need surgery?

No. Some areas may be monitored or managed without surgery. Treatment depends on symptoms, progression, tissue condition and long-term risk.

Can gum recession cause sensitivity?

Exposed root surfaces may be sensitive to temperature, brushing or touch. Other dental conditions can also cause sensitivity, so an examination is important.

Can gum recession be prevented from getting worse?

Progression may sometimes be reduced by addressing inflammation, oral-hygiene technique, brushing pressure, bite factors and other contributing conditions.

Related Services

Request a Gum Recession Assessment

Book an appointment to have an area of gum recession, exposed root surface or related sensitivity assessed.