Why are exposed roots so sensitive to cold?

The root of a tooth is covered by cementum and dentine, which contain thousands of microscopic tubules leading directly to the nerve. When gums recede, temperature stimuli trigger sharp nerve pain.

How does composite bonding treat receding gums?

We apply a thin layer of colour-matched composite resin over the exposed root surface. This seals the sensitive dentinal tubules, eliminates cold sensitivity, and smooths the gumline contour.

Will brushing harder make my teeth cleaner?

No! Brushing hard with stiff bristles is one of the leading causes of gum recession and enamel abrasion. Gentle, thorough brushing with an electric toothbrush is much safer and more effective.

Can teeth grinding cause gum recession?

Yes. Heavy clenching and grinding exert immense lateral forces on teeth, causing micro-flexing at the gumline (abfraction) that causes the gum and enamel to detach and recede.

Home Dental ConcernsReceding Gums

Dental Condition & Treatment Guide

Receding Gums – Causes, Treatment & Care in Basingstoke

Gum recession occurs when the margin of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the delicate root underneath. Left unmanaged, recession can cause sharp sensitivity to temperature, aesthetic changes, and potential root decay.

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What Causes Receding Gums?

Gum recession can result from several factors, including:

Periodontal disease (bacterial infections that destroy gum tissue and bone), aggressive toothbrushing with hard bristles or excessive pressure, nocturnal teeth grinding (bruxism) that bends tooth necks, poorly aligned teeth that place uneven pressure on the gums, and genetic thin gum biotype.

How to Stop Receding Gums From Getting Worse

While lost gum tissue does not naturally regrow on its own, our dental team can halt the progression of recession, protect exposed root surfaces, and eliminate sensitivity.

We treat any underlying bacterial infection through periodontal therapy, advise on pressure-sensing electric toothbrushes, and provide custom night guards for teeth grinding.

How to Stop Receding Gums From Getting Worse

Common Signs & Symptoms

Teeth appearing noticeably longer than they used to ('long in the tooth')

A small notch, groove, or ridge felt with your fingernail near the gumline

Sudden sharp sensitivity or 'zings' when drinking cold water or eating ice cream

Visible yellow or darker root surface showing near the gums

Redness or bleeding along the receding gum margins

Tailored Restorative Care

How Hampshire Dental Care Can Help

We provide targeted, evidence-based treatments designed to resolve the root cause of your concern and protect your oral health.

Periodontal Hygiene Therapy

Targeted deep cleaning to arrest active gum disease and stop bacterial recession.

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Composite Root Bonding

Tooth-coloured resin placed over exposed sensitive roots to seal tubules and eliminate cold sensitivity.

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Custom Bruxism Night Guard

Precision-moulded night splint to cushion heavy clenching forces that exacerbate gum recession.

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Prevention & Long-Term Care Tips

Use an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor to prevent aggressive brushing
Always use soft bristles and gentle circular motions
Wear your custom night guard every night if you clench or grind your teeth
Maintain regular 6-month hygiene visits for professional plaque monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about receding gums and available treatments at our Basingstoke clinic.

No. Once gum tissue has receded, it cannot grow back naturally. However, we can successfully stop further recession, seal exposed root surfaces with composite bonding, and refer for surgical gum grafting in advanced cases.

Private Dental Excellence in Basingstoke

Ready to restore your smile?

Book a comprehensive consultation with our experienced dental team at Hampshire Dental Care. Free on-site parking available.

01256 354 227