Sure Smile Clinic
Gum Recession

Gum Recession

When the gum margin shrinks back, the softer root surface underneath is exposed. That causes sensitivity, makes teeth look longer and increases the risk of root decay.

Ready to book your appointment?

Send us your details and we'll be in touch — usually within one working day.

Request an appointment
01 — Why it matters
Recession doesn't grow back on its own.

The priority is stopping it progressing. That means identifying whether the cause is brushing technique, gum disease, grinding or the position of the tooth in the arch — and correcting it.

Where recession is already causing sensitivity or aesthetic concern, we can treat the exposed root with bonding, desensitising agents or refer for a gum graft.

02 — Symptoms

Signs of receding gums.

The signs vary, but most people notice one or more of these:

  1. 01Teeth that look longer than they used to
  2. 02Sharp sensitivity to cold air or drinks
  3. 03A notch or step you can feel at the gum line
  4. 04Visible yellow root surface
  5. 05Dark triangles appearing between teeth
  6. 06Food trapping at the gum margin
03 — Causes

Where it comes from.

The most common culprits:

Hard brushing
Scrubbing with a hard brush wears the margin.
Gum disease
Inflammation destroys supporting tissue.
Grinding
Excess load flexes the tooth at the neck.
Thin gum biotype
Some people are simply more prone.
Tooth position
Teeth outside the arch have less bone.
Piercings
Lip and tongue studs rub the gum away.
04 — When to see a dentist

Don't wait it out.

Speak to your our practice dentist if you're experiencing any of the following — book an appointment as soon as you can:

  • A tooth looks noticeably longer than its neighbour.
  • Cold drinks cause a sharp, short stab of pain.
  • You can feel a groove at the gum line.
  • Recession is getting visibly worse.
05 — What to do about the pain

In discomfort right now?

Recession itself isn't usually painful, but exposed roots decay quickly and can become sensitive. Persistent pain needs assessing rather than masking with sensitive toothpaste.

06 — What's next

A plan, not a quick fix.

We photograph and measure your recession so we can track it, correct the cause, treat sensitivity, and where appropriate discuss bonding or a referral for gum grafting.

Our Credentials & Associations

Trusted, accredited and recognised

NHS
General Dental Council
Care Quality Commission
Juvéderm
C Thru