Gum problem guide
5 min readReceding gums
Gum recession can expose tooth roots and increase sensitivity. A dentist can assess the cause and advise how to reduce further damage.
Receding gums means the gum margin appears to have moved away from the tooth, sometimes exposing the root surface. This may make teeth look longer or feel sensitive.
Gums do not reliably regrow by themselves. A dentist or hygienist can assess why recession is happening and how to protect the teeth and gums.
At a glance
Signs to notice
Gum level changes
- Teeth may look longer or roots may feel exposed.
- Sensitivity near the gumline can occur.
- Recession may affect one tooth or several teeth.
Dental assessment
Prevent worsening
- Book a dental review if gum levels are changing.
- Ask for brushing and interdental cleaning advice tailored to your gums.
- A dentist may check for gum disease, tooth wear, bite factors or brushing trauma.
Urgent signs
Prompt help
- Urgent dental care is needed if recession is linked with severe pain, swelling or pus.
- Use emergency medical care for rapidly spreading swelling or serious injury.
- A loose tooth with injury needs prompt dental advice.
Contents
Recession is a gum-position change
Recession can expose root surfaces and make teeth more sensitive or harder to keep clean. The priority is to understand why it is happening and reduce further irritation where possible.
Possible causes or contributing factors
- Gum inflammation or periodontal disease.
- Over-brushing or traumatic brushing technique.
- Tooth position, bite forces, grinding or clenching.
- Previous dental treatment, piercings or local trauma.
What you can do now
- Use gentle brushing rather than scrubbing.
- Arrange a dental review if recession is new, worsening or sensitive.
- Keep cleaning carefully around the gumline.
What not to do
- Do not use abrasive home remedies on exposed roots.
- Do not assume recession can be reversed without assessment.
- Do not ignore bleeding, swelling, bad breath or loose teeth.
When to contact a dentist
- Gum levels appear to be changing.
- Root sensitivity, bleeding or bad breath is present.
- A tooth feels loose or gum recession is progressing.
When urgent dental care is needed
- Severe pain, swelling, pus or fever appears.
- A tooth becomes loose after injury.
- Recession is linked with an abscess-like lump or facial swelling.
When to call 999 or go to A&E
What a dentist or relevant professional may assess or do
- Assess gum levels, plaque, bite, brushing technique and periodontal health.
- Advise on cleaning methods and sensitivity management.
- Discuss treatment or referral if gum disease or advanced recession is present.
Frequently asked questions
Will receding gums grow back?
Do not assume recession will reverse. A dentist can advise what may help protect the area and whether treatment is appropriate.
Can recession cause sensitivity?
Yes. Exposed root surfaces can be sensitive to cold, touch or sweet foods.
Is gum recession urgent?
It is usually not an emergency, but urgent advice is needed if it is linked with severe pain, swelling, pus, fever or injury.
Concerned about gum recession?
Browse Odenta gum guidance and arrange dental assessment if recession is new, worsening or linked with sensitivity or bleeding.
Browse gum problem guidesOfficial sources
These links open external official guidance pages for further help.
Content reviewed by Dr Majid Saeed · 13 July 2026
References used for this guide are listed above.
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