Receding Gums? Your Jawbone May Be Suffering Too
Gum recession may be more than just a cosmetic concern — it often indicates bone loss, which can lead to tooth instability and decay. Learn the causes, signs, and treatment options from dental expert Dr. Kübra Güler.
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Receding Gums? Your Jawbone May Be Suffering Too
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If you're noticing yellow at the base of your teeth or experiencing tooth sensitivity, it may not just be about your gums — bone loss could be the silent culprit.
Gum Recession Is More Than Cosmetic – It Signals Bone Loss
Gum recession, often brushed off as a cosmetic issue, can be a serious warning sign of underlying bone erosion. According to Dr. Kübra Güler, Periodontology Specialist at Üsküdar University Dental Hospital, the primary cause is plaque and tartar buildup — and without proper care, the issue can advance to tooth mobility and even loss.
“Gums don’t recede alone,” Güler states. “When gums pull back, the underlying bone also retreats. This weakens the tooth’s foundation and increases the risk of decay, instability, and eventually, tooth loss.”
What Causes Receding Gums? More Than Just Plaque
While plaque and tartar are top culprits, Dr. Güler highlights other often overlooked causes. Aggressive tooth brushing, using teeth to hold objects like pens or keychains, and even anatomical factors such as tight muscle attachments (frenulum) near the gum line can contribute.
“These muscle bands can pull on the gums every time you move your lips or cheeks, leading to gradual recession,” she explains. In such cases, a minor surgical procedure known as frenectomy may be required.
Dr. Güler also cautions against trying to “clean” the gums with fingernails or pushing them back manually — habits that can do more harm than good.
Watch for the Yellow Line
Wondering if your gums are receding? The key sign might be color. “The root of the tooth is naturally more yellow than the crown. If you notice yellow exposure at the base, that likely indicates recession,” Güler notes.
Why Gum Recession Matters for Your Oral Health
The exposed root surfaces that result from gum recession are rougher than enamel, making them magnets for food particles and bacteria. This not only increases the risk of decay but also makes cleaning more difficult.
“Once the bone holding the tooth erodes, teeth begin to wobble — and sometimes, extraction becomes inevitable,” says Güler.
Can Receded Gums Be Restored? It Depends
Good news: not all gum recession is irreversible. “If detected early, regular dental cleanings every six months can prevent tartar-related recession,” Dr. Güler advises.
However, when the gum loss is more advanced or caused by structural or habitual factors, surgical options may be considered. “In suitable patients, we can graft tissue from the palate to rebuild the gum line — but this isn’t possible for everyone,” she adds.
Prevention Starts at the Dentist’s Office
Experts recommend routine check-ups, professional cleanings, and proper brushing techniques to prevent gum recession before it threatens your oral health.
Smile confidently — and take your gum health seriously.
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