Why Are My Gums Receding?

Gum recession happens when the tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth slowly pulls away or wears down. As that tissue recedes, more of the tooth — and sometimes even the root — becomes exposed. 

Many people first notice it as teeth that look longer than they used to, sensitivity to hot or cold, or small grooves near the gum line.

At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants, we look at gum recession as more than a cosmetic issue. It’s often a sign that something deeper is happening with your oral health, your bite, or even long-standing habits. 

Understanding that bigger picture allows us to treat the cause, not just what you see in the mirror.

How to tell if your gums are receding

Gum recession usually develops slowly and without discomfort, so it’s easy to miss it in its early stages. The most common symptoms are:

• Tooth sensitivity to cold
• Visible changes in tooth length
• Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Gums that look red or inflamed

In more severe instances, your teeth might start to feel loose.

Because these changes can be subtle and develop slowly, regular dental and periodontal checkups play a key role in catching recession early.

Why gums recede in the first place

Receding gums don’t usually have a single cause. More often, they’re the result of a combination of factors. Gum disease is one of the most common contributors — bacteria beneath the gum line can quietly damage the tissue and bone that support your teeth.

Everyday habits also matter. Brushing too aggressively, using stiff-bristled toothbrushes, or inconsistent oral hygiene can all irritate gums over time. Genetics plays a role; some people naturally have thinner gum tissue that’s more prone to recession, even with good care.

Lifestyle and mechanical factors can contribute. Tobacco reduces blood flow to your gums, making healing more difficult. Teeth grinding or a misaligned bite can place excess pressure on certain teeth, causing the gums around them to pull back. 

Hormonal changes — such as those during pregnancy or menopause — can make your gums more sensitive and reactive. 

In some cases, orthodontic tooth movement without enough gum or bone support can also lead to recession.

Understanding what’s driving your recession helps us build a plan that’s truly personalized.

Why gum recession matters

Receding gums don’t just affect appearance. When the roots of teeth are exposed, sensitivity often increases, and the risk of decay goes up. 

Over time, untreated recession can lead to inflammation, infection, bone loss, and even tooth mobility or loss. What starts as a small change can turn into a much bigger problem if you ignore it.

How we help

Caesar Sweidan, DDS, and Laura Smith, DDS, along with our experienced team, take a comprehensive, patient-focused approach to treating gum recession.

We begin with a thorough evaluation to understand how much recession is present and why it’s happening. You may be able to slow or stop progression by improving your home care habits, adjusting brushing techniques, and scheduling professional cleanings.

When gum disease is involved, periodontal therapies such as deep cleaning and antimicrobial treatments can reduce inflammation and bacteria. 

For more advanced recession, we may recommend procedures like gum grafting to restore lost tissue, protect exposed roots, and improve long-term stability. If bite issues or grinding are contributing factors, we can address those to reduce ongoing stress on your gums.

Just as important, we continue to monitor your gums over time. Recession isn’t something you fix once and forget. Ongoing care helps keep your results stable and your smile healthy.

Catching gum recession early makes all the difference

Gum recession doesn’t always come with discomfort, but it does leave clues. Paying attention to small changes — and acting on them early — allows for simpler, more effective treatment.

If you’ve noticed sensitivity, changes in your gum line, or it’s been a while since your last periodontal evaluation, call us at St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants in Covington or Slidell, Louisiana, or request an appointment online. 

We’re here to help you understand what’s happening and protect your smile for the long term.