Mon 10am–7pm | Tue 9am–5pm | Wed–Thu 8am–5pm
Call Map
(630) 548-2300 Appointments Directions Make Payment
Menu

Gum Recession in Naperville, IL

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, exposing the roots and leaving them vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and further damage. Your gums form a protective seal around each tooth — when that seal is compromised, the health of the tooth and surrounding bone is at risk. At , Dr. Brammeier can diagnose the cause of your recession and recommend the right treatment to restore protection and improve your smile.

Request Appointment (630) 548-2300

What it is

The gradual loss of gum tissue that exposes tooth roots — compromising the protective seal around your teeth and leaving roots vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and bone loss.

Who it affects

Anyone can experience gum recession, but it's more common in adults over 40. Risk factors include gum disease, aggressive brushing, genetics, teeth grinding, and misaligned teeth.

How we help

Thorough evaluation to identify the cause, non-surgical treatment when possible, and soft tissue grafting to regenerate lost gum tissue and restore root coverage when needed.

Receding gums won't grow back on their own — early treatment prevents further damage.

Request Appointment
Gum recession showing exposed tooth roots

Symptoms of Gum Recession

  • Sensitivity: Hot and cold temperatures cause discomfort as roots become exposed
  • Longer-looking teeth: Teeth appear longer than normal as gum tissue pulls back
  • Exposed roots: The darker root surface becomes visible below the gum line
  • Discoloration: Exposed roots often appear yellowish or brownish compared to the crown
  • Loose teeth: As supporting tissue is lost, teeth may become mobile
  • Increased cavities: Exposed root surfaces are softer than enamel and more prone to decay

Causes of Gum Recession

  • Periodontal disease: The bacteria associated with gum disease destroy the supporting bone and tissue
  • Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush wears away gum tissue
  • Poor oral hygiene: Plaque and tartar buildup causes chronic inflammation and recession
  • Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to thinner gum tissue
  • Grinding and clenching: Excessive forces on teeth cause the gums to recede
  • Misaligned teeth: When teeth don't align properly, uneven forces cause localized recession

Treatment Options

  • Address the cause: If gum disease is present, scaling and root planing is typically the first step
  • Soft tissue grafting: A gum graft can regenerate lost tissue and re-cover exposed roots
  • Bite correction: Adjusting the bite or treating grinding can stop recession caused by excessive force
  • Improved technique: Switching to a soft toothbrush and gentler brushing technique prevents further damage
  • Night guard: A custom night guard protects against grinding-related recession
  • Dr. Brammeier will determine the best approach based on the cause and severity of your recession

Don't wait until sensitivity becomes pain — early treatment for gum recession is simpler and more effective.

Request Appointment

What to Expect at Your Visit

Visit Steps

  1. Evaluation: Dr. Brammeier examines your gum tissue, measures recession, and identifies the underlying cause
  2. Diagnosis: You receive a clear explanation of your condition and what's causing it
  3. Treatment plan: Depending on severity, options may range from improved home care to soft tissue grafting
  4. Treatment: Non-surgical approaches are tried first when appropriate — grafting is recommended when recession is significant
  5. Follow-up: Regular monitoring ensures recession has stopped and any grafts are healing well

Helpful Tips

  • Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions — never scrub back and forth
  • Don't ignore sensitivity — it's often the first sign of recession
  • If you grind your teeth at night, ask about a custom night guard
  • Continue flossing — proper technique won't cause recession, but skipping it allows gum disease that does
  • Treat recession early — the more gum tissue is lost, the more complex treatment becomes
  • Ask {{ site.doctorName }} about soft tissue grafting options to restore lost gum tissue

Frequently Asked Questions

No — once gum tissue is lost, it doesn't regenerate on its own. However, soft tissue grafting can replace lost tissue and re-cover exposed roots. Treating the underlying cause can also prevent further recession.

Yes. Exposed roots are vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and further bone loss. Left untreated, recession can lead to tooth loss. The good news is that early intervention can stop progression and restore coverage in many cases.

Recession itself is often painless in early stages — you may not notice it until sensitivity develops or teeth appear longer. Some patients experience sharp sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods as roots become exposed.

Many causes are preventable. Use a soft toothbrush with gentle technique, floss nightly to prevent gum disease, treat teeth grinding, and attend regular dental checkups. If you have genetic risk factors, early monitoring is especially important.

A gum graft (soft tissue graft) takes tissue from the roof of your mouth or a donor source and places it over the exposed root. This restores the protective barrier, reduces sensitivity, and improves appearance. Dr. Brammeier can evaluate whether a gum graft is the right option for your situation.

Look for teeth that appear longer than before, visible root surfaces (often darker in color), sensitivity to temperature, or a notch you can feel at the gum line. Dr. Brammeier can detect recession during a routine exam — even in areas you can't easily see.

Protect your roots. Protect your smile. Schedule your gum recession evaluation today.

Request Appointment

Related Topics

Gum Disease Scaling & Root Planing Periodontal Maintenance Preventing Gum Disease General Dentistry