Gum recession is a condition that, if left untreated, can be painful and cause several problems. If caught early, treatment is simple and can improve your quality of life. Gum recession is when the gum tissue that surrounds your teeth lessens or pulls back away which exposes more of the tooth and over time most of the root of the tooth. When this happens, pockets form between the teeth, making it a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria. There are many different causes to gum recession, including poor oral health, aggressive tooth brushing, teeth grinding and clinching to name a few. If you suspect you have gum recession, contact our Raleigh periodontal practice today.