Medical Encyclopaedia › Gum recession (short definition)
In brief: In gum recession (gingival recession), the gum withdraws from the tooth so that part of the tooth root is exposed. The teeth look longer, the tooth necks can be sensitive to cold, and the exposed root is more susceptible to caries. Recession can usually be stopped, but lost gum does not grow back by itself.
Causes
- Periodontitis: the chronic inflammation destroys the tooth-supporting apparatus and bone; the gum follows the bone loss.
- Unsuitable brushing technique: scrubbing too hard horizontally and hard brushes can damage thin gums in particular.
- Anatomical factors: thin gums, a thin bony wall over the root, teeth positioned far outwards in the arch, or tight lip and cheek frenula.
- Orthodontic tooth movements beyond the bone boundary.
- Other factors: smoking, lip or tongue piercings, poorly fitting filling or crown margins.
Whether teeth grinding promotes gum recession has not been clearly proven; however, it can favour wedge-shaped defects at the tooth neck.
Signs and consequences
First signs are teeth that look longer, visible transitions between enamel and root, dark triangles between the teeth or a brief, sharp pain with cold, sweet things or when brushing. Exposed root surfaces are softer than enamel and are prone to root caries and wear. In recession due to periodontitis, bleeding gums, bad breath and loose teeth are often added. Recession without inflammation, by contrast, often causes few symptoms for a long time.
Diagnosis
The dentist measures how far the gum has receded and how much supporting tissue remains between the teeth. This results in a classification which, according to the 2018 international classification, distinguishes three types and helps estimate how well a root can be covered again. In addition, pocket depths, tendency to bleed, gum thickness, brushing habits and, if necessary, X-rays are assessed to detect or rule out periodontitis.
Treatment
The causes are addressed first: a gentle brushing technique with a soft brush or sonic toothbrush, treatment of periodontitis, stopping smoking and removing troublesome piercings. Sensitive tooth necks can be relieved with fluoride toothpastes and varnishes or desensitising agents; defects at the tooth neck can be restored with tooth-coloured fillings. To cover exposed roots again or reinforce thin gums, there are periodontal plastic surgery procedures: gum tissue is moved and often supported with a connective tissue graft, usually from the palate. Alternatively, collagen matrices or enamel matrix proteins may be considered. How completely coverage succeeds depends above all on the remaining bone between the teeth.
Risks, costs and important to know
After surgical coverage, swelling and pain, especially at the donor site on the palate, are common; less often there is secondary bleeding, infection or only partial coverage. Systematic periodontal therapy is covered by German statutory health insurance if the requirements are met; plastic coverage for aesthetic reasons is usually not. A treatment and cost plan and information about the chances of success and alternatives are important before a procedure. Regular check-ups and professional tooth cleaning help to detect progression early.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Gums, Periodontitis, Dentine hypersensitivity, Cervical caries, Abfraction, Connective tissue graft, Enamel matrix proteins, Gum pocket, Professional tooth cleaning
Sources
- Cortellini P, Bissada NF: Mucogingival conditions in the natural dentition: Narrative review, case definitions, and diagnostic considerations. J Periodontol 2018 (World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions)
- Cairo F et al.: The interproximal clinical attachment level to classify gingival recessions and predict root coverage outcomes. J Clin Periodontol 2011
- AWMF-S3-Leitlinie Die Behandlung von Parodontitis Stadium I bis III (DG PARO, DGZMK)
- Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss (G-BA): Richtlinie zur systematischen Behandlung von Parodontitis und anderer Parodontalerkrankungen (PAR-Richtlinie)
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor, dentist or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.