What should young people do about gum recession?

Young adults experiencing gingival recession—where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing root surfaces—should seek prompt evaluation by a dentist or periodontist. While gingival recession is more commonly associated with aging, it can occur in younger individuals due to factors such as aggressive tooth brushing (especially with hard-bristled brushes or excessive lateral pressure), malocclusion, thin gingival biotype, orthodontic treatment without adequate periodontal monitoring, chronic plaque-induced gingivitis progressing to periodontitis, or habits like tongue thrusting or lip piercing trauma. In some cases, genetic predisposition or systemic conditions (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders) may contribute.

Management begins with a thorough clinical assessment—including probing depth measurements, clinical attachment level evaluation, gingival thickness assessment, and radiographic imaging—to determine the extent and underlying cause. Non-surgical interventions are typically first-line: optimizing oral hygiene techniques (e.g., switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and adopting a gentle, circular brushing method), addressing occlusal trauma through bite adjustment if indicated, correcting orthodontic-related issues, and implementing antimicrobial therapy (e.g., chlorhexidine rinses) if active inflammation is present. Patients should also be screened for bruxism and advised on stress reduction or occlusal guard use when appropriate.

If recession is stable, asymptomatic, and not compromising tooth structure or aesthetics, monitoring may suffice. However, for progressive recession, root sensitivity, esthetic concerns, or increased caries risk on exposed root surfaces, surgical intervention—such as connective tissue grafting or acellular dermal matrix grafting—may be recommended to restore keratinized tissue, reduce sensitivity, and halt further progression. Long-term success depends on eliminating etiologic factors and maintaining meticulous plaque control. Regular periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months are essential to monitor stability and prevent recurrence.