Does Brushing Too Hard Really Cause Gum Recession?

Does brushing your teeth too hard really cause gum recession? It’s one of the most common explanations people hear when they notice their gums pulling away from their teeth, but the cause of receding gums is often much more complicated.

In this video, Dr. John Ku of W Plus Dental in Washington, DC explains why you shouldn’t automatically blame aggressive toothbrushing for your gum recession.

To cause significant trauma to healthy gum tissue from brushing alone, someone would generally have to brush with extreme force, almost like scrubbing bathroom tiles. In reality, gum recession is often multifactorial, meaning several different factors may need to be considered when determining why the gums are receding.

What Can Cause Gum Recession?

Potential factors associated with gum recession may include:

• Bite-related or occlusal forces, including teeth grinding and certain bite problems

• Gum disease and chronic inflammation

• Plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene

• Genetics and naturally thin gum tissue

• Tooth position or misalignment

• Orthodontic treatment and tooth movement

• Tobacco use

• Trauma to the gum tissue, which can include improper oral hygiene techniques

If you notice receding gums, exposed tooth roots, longer-looking teeth, or increased sensitivity to hot and cold, the important question isn’t simply, “Am I brushing too hard?” It’s: Why is the gum recession occurring in the first place?

Identifying the underlying cause can help your dentist determine whether you need changes to your oral hygiene routine, treatment for gum disease, evaluation of your bite, orthodontic considerations, or procedures such as gum grafting for gum recession.

At W Plus Dental in Washington, DC, we evaluate gum recession and other periodontal concerns to determine the factors contributing to each patient’s condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

If you’re concerned about gum recession or receding gums, schedule an evaluation with our dental team to learn more about your treatment options. Contact us!