Receding gums, and what can be done about them.
Gum recession exposes the root of the tooth — the surface that was never meant to be uncovered. It often causes sensitivity and can slowly worsen. Treated well, recession can be stabilised and, in many cases, the lost coverage restored.
What it is
The gum line pulls back, exposing the root.
Recession is the loss of gum tissue that exposes part of the root surface. Because the root has no enamel, exposed areas are often sensitive to cold and more prone to wear and decay. The classic signs are teeth that look longer than they used to, a notch or step at the gum line, and sensitivity.
What causes it
Usually a combination of factors.
Recession rarely has a single cause. Thin gum and bone (anatomy), aggressive horizontal brushing with a hard brush (mechanical trauma), periodontal disease (inflammation), tooth position, and habits such as grinding all contribute. Identifying the drivers matters — treating recession without addressing the cause invites it to return.
How it is treated
From stabilising to root coverage.
Mild recession that is stable may simply be monitored, with technique correction and desensitising care. Where coverage is needed — for sensitivity, root protection, or aesthetics — a gum graft adds tissue back to the site, using the patient's own palatal tissue or a donor alternative. Both doctors are specialists in periodontics and oral medicine and perform this surgery.
If you have had a graft, the full post-operative instructions set out what is normal week by week, and when to call us.
Common questions
Frequently asked.
Clinical content
Reviewed by Dr Leande Kotze and Dr Christa Blignaut. Last reviewed 16 May 2026.