Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can put repeated pressure on the teeth and the tissues around them. Over time, this pressure may contribute to dental problems, especially when grinding happens often or with strong force. Gum recession treatment in Surrey may be recommended when the gum has pulled away from a tooth and exposed part of its root. However, grinding is not the only possible cause of receding gums. Brushing too hard, gum disease, tooth position, and other factors can also play a role.
Understanding the possible connection between grinding and gum recession can help identify signs that should be checked by a dental professional.
Can Teeth Grinding Cause Gum Recession?
Teeth grinding and gum recession may be connected in some cases, but grinding does not automatically cause gums to recede. Repeated pressure from grinding or clenching can place stress on the teeth and supporting tissues.
The risk may be more concerning when grinding occurs along with other factors, such as:
- Gum inflammation or disease
- Heavy brushing
- A tooth that is positioned outside the normal gum line
- A history of gum problems
- Strong or frequent clenching
A dental assessment can help determine what may be contributing to the gum changes.
Does Clenching Cause Gum Recession?
Clenching can place strong and repeated pressure on the teeth and their supporting tissues. While it is not considered the only cause of gum recession, ongoing clenching may add stress when other risk factors are already present.
Clenching may also cause other signs, including:
- Jaw soreness
- Tooth sensitivity
- Headaches
- Worn or flattened teeth
- Pain when chewing
The presence of these symptoms does not confirm that clenching is causing gum recession. An examination is needed to identify the actual cause.
What Does Receding Gums From Grinding Teeth Look Like?
Receding gums from grinding teeth may appear as the gum line becoming lower around one or more teeth. As the gum moves away from the tooth, more of the tooth or root surface may become visible.
Signs of gum recession may include:
- Teeth looking longer than they used to
- More sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Changes in the gum line
- Small dents or worn spots near the gums
- Discomfort when brushing
Gum recession can happen slowly, so you may not notice the changes right away.
What Other Problems Can Cause Gum Recession?
Grinding is only one possible factor. A dental clinic in Surrey can check the gums and teeth to look for other causes.
Gum recession may also be linked to:
- Gum disease
- Brushing with too much force
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Poorly positioned teeth
- Naturally thin gum tissue
- Injury to the gums
Finding the cause is important because treatment may need to address more than the visible gum recession.
How Is Gum Recession Treated?
Gum recession treatment in Surrey depends on how much the gum has receded and what caused the problem. Mild cases may be managed by improving brushing habits, treating gum inflammation, or reducing factors that place stress on the teeth.
Depending on the cause and condition, treatment may include:
- Learning better brushing techniques
- Getting a professional cleaning when needed
- Treating gum disease
- Checking the gum line regularly
- Managing teeth grinding or clenching
- Getting gum treatment for more serious recession
Treatment depends on the health of your teeth and gums, not just how they look.
Can a Dental Clinic Help With Teeth Grinding and Receding Gums?
A dental clinic near you can examine the gum line, teeth, and bite to look for signs of grinding and recession. The examination may include checking for tooth wear, gum changes, sensitivity, and areas that receive extra pressure.
If grinding is suspected, the dental team may discuss ways to reduce the strain on the teeth. This can be especially useful when grinding is happening regularly or is causing other dental symptoms.
Find Out What May Be Causing Your Gum Recession!
Gum recession can happen for different reasons. Teeth grinding may be one cause because repeated pressure can affect the teeth and gums. Finding the cause can help your dentist choose the right way to protect your teeth and gums.
Book an appointment with Dentists of Chimney Heights to have your gum recession and signs of teeth grinding assessed and discuss the treatment options that may be suitable for your needs.
FAQs
Can gum recession from grinding grow back on its own?
Receded gum tissue does not usually grow back on its own. Treatment focuses on protecting the remaining gum tissue and addressing the cause of the recession.
Can a night guard stop gum recession?
A night guard may help reduce the effects of grinding on the teeth, but it does not directly rebuild lost gum tissue. Whether one is suitable depends on the individual situation.
Can gum recession make teeth more sensitive?
Yes. When gums pull back, the tooth root may become exposed. This can make the tooth more sensitive to cold, heat, or touch.
Can grinding damage teeth even without gum recession?
Yes. Regular teeth grinding can wear down the teeth and may cause small cracks, chips, or jaw pain. Gum recession does not have to be present for teeth grinding to cause damage.