Patient Education
How to Brush Without Causing Gum Recession
By Dr. Travis W. Mize, DMD, MHS, Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology
Many patients who come to us worried about gum disease actually have gum recession. The two are easy to confuse, but they have different causes, and recession is often something you can help prevent at home with a few simple changes to how you brush.
Gum Disease vs. Gum Recession
Gum disease is caused by bacteria. Plaque and tartar build up around the gum line, and your immune system responds with inflammation that gradually destroys the gums and, eventually, the bone around your teeth. It is treated with deep cleaning or LANAP laser therapy.
Gum recession is the gum line pulling back and exposing more of the tooth and root. In most of the cases Dr. Mize sees, it is caused by brushing too aggressively. Heavy grinding or clenching can also contribute.
Dr. Mize’s Brushing Tips
- Use a light grip. Hold the brush with your fingertips, the way you hold silverware, instead of gripping it in your fist.
- Don’t saw. Use small circular or up-and-down motions rather than scrubbing back and forth.
- Take your time. Brush for the full two to three minutes. Most damage happens when you rush in the morning before work, so pay extra attention then.
- Choose soft bristles. Most brushes today are soft to medium, and technique matters more than the brush itself.
Manual or Electric Toothbrush?
Both are fine. Many electric brushes light up or beep when you press too hard, but they can’t tell when you’re scrubbing, and scrubbing with an electric brush can do even more damage. Turn it on, let the brush do the work, and move slowly from one area to the next. If you’re short on time in the morning, use a manual brush gently then, and use the electric brush at night when you can take your time.
When to See a Periodontist
Recession that keeps progressing, makes your teeth sensitive to hot and cold, or exposes the roots should be evaluated. Dr. Mize can treat significant recession with gum grafting, and when a tight lip attachment is pulling on the gum, a frenectomy may help.
Watch Dr. Mize Explain
Patient Questions
Gum Recession: Frequently Asked Questions
Can brushing too hard cause receding gums?
Yes. In Dr. Mize’s experience, heavy-handed brushing is the most common cause of gum recession. Gripping the brush tightly and scrubbing back and forth wears the gum away over time.
Should I switch to an electric toothbrush?
Either type is fine. Technique matters more than the brush. Many electric brushes warn you when you press too hard, but they can’t stop you from scrubbing, so guide an electric brush slowly and let it do the work.
Is gum recession the same as gum disease?
No. Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria and the inflammation they trigger. Recession is the gum pulling back from the tooth, most often from aggressive brushing and sometimes from grinding or clenching. You can have one without the other.
Can receded gums grow back?
Gums don’t grow back on their own once they recede, but better brushing can keep recession from getting worse. When recession is significant or causes sensitivity, a gum graft can rebuild healthy gum and cover exposed roots.
Worried About Receding Gums?
Dr. Mize can tell you whether it’s recession or gum disease and what to do about it. Referrals are appreciated but not required.
