The first sign of gum recession is usually the sensitivity felt in the teeth. Apart from this, the symptoms of gum recession can be listed as follows:

• Bleeding in the gums, when brushing teeth or at normal times
• Bleeding observed while eating hard foods (such as apples, pears)
• The tooth appears longer than normal
• Redness or swelling of the gums

• Periodontal diseases: These are bacterial gum infections that destroy gum tissue and the bone that holds your teeth in place. Gum disease is the main cause of gum recession.
• Genetic influences: Some people may be more susceptible to gum disease. Studies show that 30% of the population may be prone to gum disease regardless of the dental care they do.
• Wrong and hard brushing: If you brush your teeth too hard or incorrectly, you may cause the structure that protects the teeth (enamel) to wear off and your gums to recede.
• Insufficient dental care: Factors such as insufficient and infrequent brushing, not rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash, and not using dental floss facilitate the transformation of plaques, especially between the teeth, into gingival stones called tartar. Tartars are very hard substances that stick to your teeth and gums and can only be removed with professional dental cleaning. These tartars can lead to gum recession.
• Experiencing hormonal changes: Events such as puberty or pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause that cause fluctuations in hormone levels throughout a woman's life can cause gums to become more sensitive. In these cases, gingival recession is more common.
• Using tobacco products: Tobacco users are more likely to have sticky plaque on their teeth that is difficult to remove and can cause gum recession.
• Grinding and clenching your teeth: Sometimes, even if you don't realize it yourself, you may clenched your teeth, especially during times of stress. Clenching or grinding your teeth can put too much force on your teeth, causing the gums to recede.
• Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite: When the teeth do not come together in an aligned way, too much pressure can come to the teeth, gums and bone, causing gum recession over time.
• Having a lip or tongue piercing: A piece of jewelery worn on these areas may come into contact with the gums, causing wear and irritation of the gum tissue. If your gingival recession is only observed in the areas that come into contact with the piercing and not on other teeth, you can try to remove your piercing.

The most basic way to prevent gingival recession is to perform full and regular dental care. Brush and floss your teeth daily and visit your dentist at least twice a year or as recommended. If you have gum recession, your dentist may want to see you more often. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and ask your dentist to show you the correct way to brush your teeth. Other ways to prevent gum recession include:

• If you use cigarettes or any other tobacco product, quit without delay.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
• Follow closely the changes in your mouth and do not neglect it.

By taking good care of your teeth, you can have a healthy smile forever.