Your gums are not supposed to disappear on you, but for millions of adults, that is exactly what happens, slowly and quietly, until sensitivity shows up uninvited and teeth start looking a little taller than they used to. Gum recession tends to sneak up on people because it does not always hurt at first. By the time you notice something is off, the tissue has already pulled back from where it belongs.

The good news is that gum recession is manageable when it is caught and treated with the right approach. At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, brings a conservative, biomimetic perspective to every evaluation, which means we look at the full picture before making any recommendations. Our periodontics services are designed to address gum concerns at every stage, whether you are dealing with early-stage recession or a more advanced condition.

What Causes Gum Recession?

There is no single culprit behind receding gums, and that is actually what makes it so easy to miss until it has already progressed.

Some of the most common contributing factors include:

• Aggressive brushing: Scrubbing harder does not mean cleaner. Using too much pressure or a stiff-bristle brush can gradually wear away gum tissue over the years.
• Periodontal disease: Bacterial infection below the gumline damages the tissue and bone supporting your teeth, and recession is one of the most recognizable results.
• Genetics: Some people simply have thinner gum tissue or less dense bone structure, making recession more likely regardless of how diligently they brush and floss.
• Teeth grinding: Chronic grinding and clenching put ongoing mechanical stress on teeth and the surrounding gum tissue, accelerating both recession and bone loss.
• Hormonal shifts: Changes in hormone levels, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can make gums more reactive and prone to pulling back.
• Tobacco use: Smoking and smokeless tobacco reduce blood flow to the gums and are among the strongest risk factors for recession and gum disease.

These factors often pile up, and data from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research show that 42.2% of U.S. adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease, a condition closely linked to gum recession. That is a substantial portion of the population quietly dealing with a fixable problem.

How to Recognize the Symptoms of Gum Recession

Gum recession gives off some pretty clear signals once you know what to look for. Tooth sensitivity is usually the first sign, especially when something cold, sweet, or acidic hits a tooth that was not bothered before. That reaction occurs because recession exposes the root surface, which lacks the same enamel protection as the crown. 

You might also notice that certain teeth look longer than they once did or that your gumline has become uneven across your smile. A small notch near the gumline is another tell. In more advanced cases, a tooth may feel slightly loose, which suggests involvement of the underlying bone.

What makes recession a little tricky is that it does not always come with pain, so it is easy to put off until a routine visit catches it. Identifying it early keeps treatment simpler and more conservative.

Treatment Options for Receding Gums

The approach to treating recession depends on what caused it and how far it has progressed.

Treating the Source First

Any lasting improvement starts with addressing what triggered the recession in the first place. If periodontal disease is involved, scaling and root planing clears out bacterial buildup below the gumline and give the tissue a healthier environment to stabilize. If your brushing technique is contributing, a few simple adjustments can put an immediate stop to further damage.

Surgical and Regenerative Options

When gum recession has progressed beyond the early stages, soft-tissue grafting may be the most effective option. During this procedure, tissue, often from the palate or a donor source, is placed over the exposed root to restore coverage and provide long-term protection. Guided tissue regeneration is another avenue that helps the body rebuild lost bone and connective tissue.

Both approaches reflect Dr. Sharbash’s commitment to biomimetic dentistry, which prioritizes preserving natural structure whenever possible. Our dedicated gum recession treatment page walks through what each treatment option may involve.

Keeping Your Gums Healthy Long-Term

Protecting your gum tissue over time does not require a complicated routine. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and keeping up with regular dental visits go a long way. If nighttime grinding is part of the picture, a custom nightguard can take the pressure off your gums and bone while you sleep. Handling early signs of inflammation before they develop further is, without question, the most effective long-term strategy. 

Healthier Gums Start at Newport Beach Dental Center

Receding gums are common, but that does not make them inevitable or irreversible. Dr. Sharbash holds a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry, a credential held by fewer than 6% of general dentists in the U.S., and she brings that depth of clinical training to every periodontal evaluation. Our conservative approach means we look for the most effective and least invasive path forward for your specific situation.

We accept Delta Dental as an in-network provider, and financing options through CareCredit and Cherry are available to help make care accessible. If sensitivity, a shifting gumline, or a general curiosity about your gum health has been on your mind, we would love to help you get some answers. Request an appointment online and let us take a look.

Receding gums are more common than most people realize, and they are not just a cosmetic concern. When gum tissue pulls back and exposes more of the tooth or its root, it can lead to sensitivity, decay, and even tooth loss if left unaddressed. Gum grafting is a procedure designed to restore lost tissue, protect the tooth structure, and help stabilize your long-term oral health.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, we take a conservative, biomimetic approach to every treatment we recommend. Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, brings a thorough, patient-first perspective to periodontic care, which means gum grafting is only discussed when it genuinely serves your health. Our trusted team is here to tell you what you should know about the procedure and how to tell if it may be right for you, so you can make the best decision for your oral health.

What Is Gum Grafting?

Gum grafting, also called a gingival graft, is a surgical procedure in which soft tissue is placed over areas where the gums have receded. The goal is to cover exposed root surfaces, reinforce thin gum tissue, and reduce the risk of further recession.

There are a few common types of grafts used depending on the patient’s needs and the degree of recession. Each approach is chosen based on how much coverage is needed and where the donor tissue comes from. The most frequently used options include:

• Connective tissue graft: Tissue taken from beneath the surface of the palate and placed over the recession site; considered the most common approach for root coverage
• Free gingival graft: Tissue taken directly from the surface of the palate; often used when the goal is to thicken thin gum tissue rather than cover a root
• Pedicle graft: Tissue shifted from healthy gum adjacent to the recession site; ideal when there is sufficient nearby gum tissue to work with

Each approach has its place, and the right choice depends on your specific anatomy and what you and Dr. Sharbash decide together.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession does not happen overnight. It tends to develop gradually, often as the result of habits or conditions that go unnoticed for years. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 2 in 5 adults in the United States are affected by some form of periodontal disease, making gum health one of the most prevalent oral health concerns in the country. 

Beyond gum disease, recession may also be tied to aggressive brushing, clenching or grinding, naturally thin gum tissue, certain medications, or misalignment. In many cases, a patient has no idea their gums have moved until they notice increased sensitivity or a longer-looking tooth. Gum disease treatment is often a necessary first step before grafting is considered, as grafting onto inflamed or active tissue does not yield predictable results.

Signs You Might Need a Gum Graft

Not every patient with gum recession needs a graft. However, certain signs suggest the situation warrants a closer look and a conversation with your dentist. You may be a candidate for gum grafting if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Root sensitivity: Pain or discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods, which may indicate the root is exposed
• Visible root exposure: The tooth appears longer than it used to, or you can see the yellowish root surface below the gumline
• Progressive recession: The gum line continues to migrate upward despite consistent brushing habits
• Thin gum tissue: Some patients have naturally minimal gum tissue that may not adequately protect the tooth over time

If these signs sound familiar, a thorough evaluation will help determine whether grafting, monitoring, or a different treatment is the right path forward.

How the Procedure Works

The gum grafting process involves a brief surgical procedure, typically completed in a single visit under local anesthesia. Depending on which type of graft is used, tissue may be harvested from the roof of the mouth or repositioned from nearby gum tissue. The grafted tissue is then secured over the exposed area and allowed to heal and integrate over the following weeks.

Recovery is manageable for most patients, though some soreness and dietary restrictions are expected in the first week or two. The benefits, including reduced sensitivity, protected root surfaces, and a more balanced gum line, often make it well worth the short recovery period.

For patients with more advanced concerns, gum grafting may be one component of a larger full-mouth reconstruction plan. After healing, complementary restorative work, such as dental crowns, may also be considered to address any damage to the exposed root structure that occurred during the period of recession.

Talk to Newport Beach Dental Center About Your Gum Health

Gum recession is worth taking seriously, but having it evaluated does not mean committing to a procedure. Dr. Sharbash’s conservative philosophy means treatment is always weighed against your individual circumstances, and grafting is recommended only when it serves a clear clinical purpose. As a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), she holds advanced credentials earned by fewer than 6% of general dentists nationwide, and her approach reflects that depth of training.

Whether you have noticed increased sensitivity, visible recession, or simply want a baseline assessment of your gum health, our team is here to help. We welcome CareCredit and Cherry financing to keep care accessible, and we are in-network with Delta Dental. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and get the answers you need.

Your gums do a lot more than most people give them credit for. They frame your smile, protect your teeth, and play a major role in whether certain dental treatments are even possible. When there isn’t enough visible tooth structure above the gumline — whether due to a “gummy smile,” decay extending below the gums, or a broken tooth — crown lengthening can be a pivotal solution that opens the door to a healthier, more functional, and more confident smile.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, we understand how important it is to address both the aesthetics and the function of your smile with precision. Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, takes a conservative, biomimetic approach to every procedure, and crown lengthening is no exception. Whether it’s preparing a tooth for a dental crown or improving the proportions of your smile, we approach every case with your long-term oral health in mind. Crown lengthening falls under the broader umbrella of gum disease treatment and periodontal care — and understanding what it involves is the first step toward deciding if it’s right for you.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure in which a dentist carefully removes a small amount of gum tissue, bone, or both in order to expose more of a tooth’s surface. The name can be a little misleading — the tooth itself isn’t actually getting longer. Instead, more of the existing tooth structure is simply being revealed, giving us more to work with for restorative or cosmetic purposes. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is generally well-tolerated.

When decay, a fracture, or a failed restoration extends below the gumline, there isn’t enough tooth structure exposed for a crown or filling to bond to properly. Crown lengthening addresses this directly by adjusting the gum and bone levels to give us adequate room to work. Without this step, attempting to place a restoration in those conditions can lead to fit issues, gum irritation, or even restoration failure over time. By creating a clean, stable foundation first, we significantly improve the longevity and success of whatever restorative treatment follows.

Can Crown Lengthening Improve a Gummy Smile?

Absolutely — and this is one of the most rewarding applications of the procedure. A gummy smile occurs when an excess of gum tissue covers a larger portion of the teeth than is typical, making teeth appear short or uneven. Crown lengthening removes this excess tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth crown, creating a more balanced and proportional smile. For patients considering a complete smile makeover, crown lengthening can serve as a meaningful starting point that enhances the results of everything else.

Crown lengthening offers a range of meaningful benefits that extend beyond just aesthetics. Here’s a look at what patients can expect from this procedure:

• Improved smile symmetry: More of the natural tooth surface is revealed, creating a balanced, even appearance across the smile.
• Better conditions for dental restorations: Crowns and fillings have more tooth structure to bond to, leading to better fit and longer-lasting results.
• Reduced risk of recurring issues: By fully exposing decay or damage below the gumline, we can address problems completely rather than partially.
• Healthier gum tissue long-term: Properly contoured gums are easier to clean and less prone to harboring bacteria in hard-to-reach pockets.

Each of these benefits works together to support a healthier mouth overall, and patients who address gum-related concerns early often avoid more complex treatments down the road.

Is Crown Lengthening Right for You?

Crown lengthening is not a one-size-fits-all recommendation, and candidacy depends on your specific dental situation. Patients dealing with gum recession or significant gum coverage over healthy teeth may be excellent candidates, while others may benefit more from alternative approaches. A thorough evaluation — including X-rays and a full assessment of your gum health — is always the starting point before any treatment decisions are made.

Recovery from crown lengthening is typically manageable, with most patients returning to normal routines within a few days. Swelling and mild discomfort are common in the first 24 to 48 hours, and we provide detailed aftercare instructions to make the process as smooth as possible. Crown lengthening is among the most commonly performed periodontal procedures and has a well-established record of supporting successful restorative outcomes. Full gum tissue healing generally takes a few weeks, after which any needed restorative work can proceed on a stable foundation.

Schedule a Consultation at Newport Beach Dental Center

If you’ve been told you need crown lengthening, or you’re simply curious whether the procedure could help you achieve the smile you’ve been working toward, we’d love to walk you through your options. Dr. Laura Sharbash brings advanced training — including her Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and her Diplomate status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (D.ABDSM) — to every patient interaction. Learn more about Dr. Sharbash and our practice to see what sets our approach apart.We’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions about your dental health with care that’s conservative, precise, and always focused on your long-term wellbeing. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more complete smile.