A longer-looking tooth may reflect a change in gum position
When the gums move toward the root, a tooth may appear longer and its root surface may become exposed. This is called gum recession. Alongside the visible change, sensitivity or difficulty cleaning can develop, making an assessment worthwhile.[1][4]
The length visible in a mirror cannot establish the cause or speed of progression. A dentist checks gum position, inflammation and surrounding tissues. Comparing previous records can help show whether the change is continuing.[2]
'You brushed too hard' may not explain the whole picture
Forceful brushing is a habit worth checking, but gum disease, naturally thin gum tissue and the shape of surrounding tissues can also be involved. Cambridge University Hospitals describes several possible causes. Blaming a single behavior can mean missing care that is actually needed.[1]
Bleeding, swelling or a feeling that teeth are loose calls for assessment of inflammation and the tissues supporting the teeth. A localized change in an area of thin gums may need a different approach. Recession can look similar while the underlying conditions differ.[1][2]
Would switching to an electric brush solve it?
A 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis compared progression of gum recession with manual and powered brushes but did not demonstrate a clear difference. The included studies had limitations and the certainty of the evidence was very low.[3]
It is therefore difficult to say either that an electric brush prevents recession or that it causes it. Before relying on a change of brush type, check bristle softness, pressure and positioning. Bringing your toothbrush to an appointment can help.[3][5]
Clean gently and thoroughly, rather than less
Avoiding a receded area altogether can leave plaque behind. Daily oral hygiene remains necessary for preventing and treating gum disease. Learn how to clean the gumline and spaces between teeth without forcefully scrubbing an uncomfortable area.[2][5]
If you have sensitivity, have its cause checked and agree on care. If the spaces between teeth have changed, reassess whether your existing cleaning tools still fit. Using less force is different from skipping necessary cleaning. What matters is identifying where the tools need to reach in your own mouth.[2][5]
Recession does not always require surgery
Treatment is based on controlling inflammation, daily care, symptoms and assessment of the exposed area. In suitable cases, a gum graft may cover an exposed root or reinforce tissue. This can help with sensitivity or appearance, but suitability depends on individual circumstances.[1][4]
Before asking whether surgery is needed, establish the cause and whether the condition is stable. Options may include changing care and monitoring, treating gum disease or seeking a surgical consultation. Keeping the remaining tissue healthy is a more realistic goal than expecting a new toothpaste to grow receded gums back.[1][2][4]
Research and institutional sources
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Gum grafting procedure.View source ↗University hospital patient guidance on causes of recession and tissue assessment.
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Periodontal (Gum) Disease.View source ↗NIDCR guidance on gum examination and inflammation management.
- Molina C, et al. Influence of Manual and Powered Toothbrushes on Gingival Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Dent Hyg. 2026. doi:10.1111/idh.70086.View source ↗Systematic review and meta-analysis comparing brush types; evidence for recession outcomes was of very low certainty.
- American Academy of Periodontology. Surgical Procedures: Gum Graft Surgery.View source ↗Specialist society information on the role of gum graft surgery.
- American Dental Association. Toothbrushes.View source ↗ADA recommendations on soft bristles and gentle pressure.
Bracketed numbers in the text link to these sources. This article provides general health information; individual diagnosis and treatment plans are determined after a clinical consultation.
