
Gum loss is a common, but often overlooked problem that can have serious consequences for your oral and overall health. In this article, we will explore the causes, consequences and, most importantly, the innovative solutions that modern dentistry offers, such as connective tissue grafting.
Why do gums recede?
Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, is a gradual process in which gum tissue recedes, exposing the root of the tooth. This can be caused by several factors:
- Conservative treatment: There are two types of periodontal conditions: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque. Periodontitis is a disease that affects the structures of the oral cavity, including the teeth, gums and bones.
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to gingival recession due to genetic predisposition.
- Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco damages gum tissues and hinders healing.
- Bruxism: Clenching or grinding the teeth can put pressure on the gums and cause gum recession.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or with a harsh toothbrush can damage the gums.
Aggressive brushing:

Aggressive brushing or brushing with horizontal movements is a problem we often see in the clinic. Often the patient may think that they are very meticulous and brush often and conscientiously, and yet they still have symptoms such as tooth sensitivity.
If you attend a consultation or general check-up you will see that we always take intraoral photos of the patient’s mouth. Why? So we can record the evolution of the patient’s gums and teeth since the last visit.
In addition, these photos are essential for the patient to see the state of health of his gums and teeth and to understand the consequences of poor brushing technique.
As we can see in the images, this patient has hardly any plaque accumulation and maintains very good hygiene, but they have these indentations especially in the posterior areas.
This indicates that he is brushing aggressively and dragging the toothbrush horizontally instead of placing the toothbrush at 45º and making movements that bring the gum to the tooth.

Solutions for Gum Loss
Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for gum loss, adapted to each situation:
- Conservative treatment: When there is already gingival loss or recession and the patient does not want to perform any type of surgery, resin can be placed in the necks of the affected teeth to reduce the symptoms. Keep in mind it may not be the best option aesthetically since the teeth look longer than usual.
- Connective tissue grafting: This procedure is an excellent option for moderate to severe cases of gingival recession. It involves taking a small amount of tissue from another part of your mouth, usually the roof of your mouth, and placing it in the area where the gum has been lost.
The connective tissue graft
Connective tissue grafting is a microsurgical technique performed under local anesthesia. At 32Dental we perform this type of surgery every week. The procedure generally follows these steps:
- Preparation: the recipient area where gingival recession has occurred is cleaned and disinfected.
- Obtaining the graft: A small piece of connective tissue is taken from the palate or other donor area. The incision is minimal and is closed with sutures.
- Graft placement: A small pocket is created in the gum where the graft is to be placed. The connective tissue is carefully inserted and secured with sutures.
- Closure and recovery: The treated area is sutured and detailed post-op instructions are given to the patient. Recovery is usually quick and with minimal discomfort. However, this type of surgery requires close follow-up every 3-4 days to ensure that the tissues have a good blood supply.
Before:

After:

If you need more information about the type of treatment suitable for your case Book an appointment and we will make a complete evaluation.