Receding gums

In the past my dentist has attributed the problem due to muscles in the mouth, but I have noticed the gum area on a few teeth on the top sides of my mouth have receded and seem to be getting worse.  Is this really due to muscles pulling the area in my mouth, or something more sinister?  Can this be reversed?  My teeth have always been pretty healthy, with their share of cavities, but not much else.  It looks like the bottom of the tooth is becoming more exposed, and I don't think it is normal.  Thanks...

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

Dear Imroswell, gingival (gum) recession can be caused by the muscle attachments being too close to the gum line at the collar of the tooth. This usually occurs more often in the lower anterior (front) teeth and less often in the areas of the premolar teeth(teeth in front of the molars). There are other causes, namely, toothbrush abrasion and clenching or grinding. If the recession is worsening there are procedures that can correct the recession. I think a visit to your dentist would be in order.

[lmroswell]

Thanks.  On my way...

[new_yorker]

What kind of procedures are you telling about? Are there any special products for gum disease like toothpase ..?
Thanks...

[fulltiltbrian]

I've just been to see my dentist for the first time in in way too long. I expected to be told that I need a couple of fillings, a good old clean up and nothing much else. Even when she said I've got gum disease I thought probably just a bit of gingevitis - easily dealt with! When she said to look closely into her mirror, boy did I get a shock - gums receding high above the enamel of my teeth, revealing a discoloured area which was clearly not how it should be. 'How do you brush your teeth? she asked 'Hard and with a stiff brush' I replied 'there's your problem' she said - I hadn't even mentioned that I'm partial to a couple of glasses of red wine most evenings. It seems that hard brushing with a stiff toothbrush are the main culprits and acidic drinks are no help either.
So now I've changed to a softer brush and less harsh brushing, but I'm concerned that, if I I remove my small pleasure, the red wine, I'll be gnashing my teeth instead, and back to square one! Any ideas?

[woman36]

A related discussion, receding gum problem was started.