
Ever looked in the mirror and noticed your gums seem to be shrinking away from your teeth? It's a common thing, and it's called gum recession. It can make your teeth look longer and sometimes feel super sensitive. So, what's going on, and can we fix it? Let's break down what causes gum recession and whether it's something that can be reversed.
Is gum recession always a sign of gum disease?
It's a really common question: if my gums are receding, does that automatically mean I have gum disease? The short answer is, not always, but it's definitely a major player. Gum disease, like gingivitis or its nastier cousin periodontitis, is a big reason why gums pull back. When plaque builds up, the bacteria in it can irritate and damage your gum tissue. Over time, this can lead to gums pulling away from your teeth, creating little pockets where even more gunk can hide.