Last updated: February 2026. This guide covers receding gums causes, treatment options, NHS and private costs, prevention, and when to see a dentist. All pricing and clinical guidance verified against NHS, NICE, BSP, and government survey data.
If your teeth look longer than they used to, or you have noticed sensitivity near the gum line, your gums may be receding. You are far from alone -- 93% of UK adults show at least one sign of gum disease, and 69% already have exposed root surfaces.
The good news is that catching gum recession early makes treatment simpler and far more affordable. This guide explains what causes receding gums, which treatments are available on the NHS and privately, what they cost, and how to stop recession getting worse.
What Are Receding Gums?
Gum recession is when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or its root. As the gums recede, gaps (pockets) form between the teeth and gum line, allowing bacteria to build up and cause further damage.
The NHS lists gum recession -- described as gums that "shrink" -- as one of the key symptoms of gum disease.
"Gum disease is where the gums become red, swollen and sore, and bleed. It's very common, but it's important to get it checked by a dentist." -- NHS
How to Tell If Your Gums Are Receding
Gum recession often develops gradually and painlessly, so you may not notice it at first. Watch for these signs:
- Teeth appearing longer than they used to
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- A notch or groove you can feel at the gum line
- Visible root surfaces -- often darker or more yellow than the rest of the tooth
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bad breath that persists despite good oral hygiene
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite (in advanced cases)
How Common Is Gum Recession in the UK?
Gum recession is extremely common. According to UK government surveys:
| Statistic | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Adults with at least one periodontal condition | 93% | Adult Oral Health Survey 2023 |
| Adults with exposed root surfaces | 69% | Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 |
| Average teeth affected per person | 6.5 | Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 |
| Adults with moderate chronic periodontitis | 37% | Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 |
| Adults with severe periodontitis | 8% | Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 |
Sources: Adult Oral Health Survey 2023, Adult Dental Health Survey 2009
Recession becomes more common with age -- affecting around 38% of adults aged 30 to 39, rising to approximately 90% of those aged 80 to 90. However, it is not caused by ageing itself. Rather, the contributing factors (gum disease, brushing habits, smoking) accumulate over time.
What Causes Receding Gums?
There are several causes of gum recession, ranging from poor oral hygiene to genetics. Understanding your cause is the first step toward the right treatment.
Gum Disease (The Primary Cause)
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of gum recession. It follows a clear progression:
- Plaque builds up on teeth and at the gum line
- Gingivitis develops -- gums become inflamed, red, and bleed easily (this stage is reversible)
- Periodontitis develops -- infection spreads below the gum line, destroying bone and gum tissue (this is not reversible)
- Gums recede as the supporting structures are lost
"All gum disease is caused by plaque. Plaque is a film of bacteria which forms on the surface of the teeth every day." -- Oral Health Foundation
Brushing Too Hard
One of the most common causes of recession, particularly in younger adults. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or scrubbing side to side instead of gentle circular motions physically wears away gum tissue over time.
The NHS specifically lists "brushing your teeth too hard" as a cause of gum problems.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smokers are up to 5 times more likely to develop severe periodontitis than non-smokers. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, weakens the immune response, and impairs healing -- making it both a cause and an accelerator of gum recession.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding or clenching generates forces up to ten times stronger than normal chewing. This excessive pressure weakens the gum's foundation and can cause it to pull away from the teeth, especially when combined with thin gum tissue or existing inflammation.
Genetics
Research suggests approximately 30% of people may be genetically predisposed to gum disease regardless of their oral hygiene habits. If your parents or siblings have receding gums, you should be particularly vigilant about prevention and regular dental check-ups.
Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone -- during pregnancy, menopause, and the menstrual cycle -- make gums more sensitive and reactive to plaque. Pregnancy gingivitis is especially common and, if untreated, can contribute to recession.
Other Causes
- Misaligned or crooked teeth -- uneven bite forces can stress certain areas of gum
- Lip or tongue piercings -- research shows a 33% prevalence of gum recession in people with oral piercings, caused by metal rubbing against the gum (British Dental Journal)
- Previous orthodontic treatment -- approximately 40% of patients develop some recession during treatment, though typically mild (around 0.5mm)
Can Receding Gums Grow Back?
No. Once gum tissue is lost, it does not grow back on its own. This is one of the most important facts about gum recession and the key reason why early action matters.
However, treatment can:
- Stop further recession from progressing
- Protect exposed roots from decay and sensitivity
- Surgically restore gum coverage in many cases (through gum grafts or other procedures)
The earlier you act, the more options you have. Mild recession caught early may only need improved brushing technique and professional cleaning. Advanced recession may require surgery.
Receding Gums Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how severe the recession is and what is causing it. Options range from simple non-surgical approaches to advanced surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Professional Cleaning (Scale and Polish)
Removal of plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces above and below the gum line. This is the foundation of all periodontal treatment and is often sufficient for mild cases.
- NHS cost: £27.40 (Band 1, if part of examination) or £75.30 (Band 2, if part of periodontal treatment)
- Private cost: £89-£195 per session
- Recovery: None -- immediate return to normal activities
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
A more intensive procedure performed under local anaesthetic. The dentist or hygienist cleans below the gum line, removing bacterial deposits from tooth roots and smoothing rough surfaces where bacteria collect. Treatment is usually done in sections over multiple appointments, each lasting 60 to 90 minutes.
- NHS cost: £75.30 (Band 2, regardless of number of visits)
- Private cost: £199-£1,040 (depending on severity; £65-£260 per quadrant)
- Recovery: Teeth may be sensitive for several weeks
"Periodontal treatment, both surgical and non-surgical, including root-planing, deep scaling, irrigation of periodontal pockets, subgingival curettage" is classified as Band 2 treatment. -- NHSBSA
Desensitising Treatment
Professional application of fluoride varnishes or desensitising agents to exposed root surfaces, reducing sensitivity.
- NHS cost: May be included within Band 2 treatment
- Private cost: £30-£80 per application
- Also available: Over-the-counter desensitising toothpastes (e.g., Sensodyne) for daily use at home
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is considered when non-surgical treatment is not enough to protect the teeth, or when significant root coverage is needed.
Gum Graft Surgery
The most established surgical treatment for gum recession. Tissue is taken from another area (usually the roof of your mouth) and attached to the recession site. There are three main types:
- Connective tissue graft (most common) -- tissue taken from beneath a flap in the palate
- Free gingival graft -- tissue taken directly from the palate surface; used when gums need thickening
- Pedicle graft -- tissue from the gum next to the affected tooth is stretched over to cover the exposed root
Costs:
- NHS: £75.30 (Band 2 -- limited availability, long waiting times)
- Private: £300-£1,200 per tooth (varies by provider and complexity)
Recovery: 1-2 weeks initial healing; full recovery 4-8 weeks
Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)
A minimally invasive, scalpel-free alternative to gum grafting. A tiny hole is made in the gum tissue, through which instruments gently reposition the gum line to cover exposed roots. Collagen strips stabilise the new position.
Costs:
- NHS: Not available
- Private: £1,000-£3,000 (depending on number of teeth)
Recovery: Minimal -- most patients return to normal activities within 24-48 hours
Availability: Very limited in the UK. Only dentists trained by the technique's creator (Dr John Chao) can perform PST, with a small number of licensed providers primarily in London and Essex.
Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)
An advanced procedure that stimulates growth of new bone and tissue using specialised membranes and proteins. Used for cases with significant bone loss.
Costs:
- NHS: Not typically available (may be possible via hospital referral)
- Private: £1,000-£3,000 per procedure
LANAP (Laser Treatment)
Uses a specialised laser to selectively remove diseased tissue and bacteria while preserving healthy gum, promoting reattachment and bone regeneration.
Costs:
- NHS: Not available
- Private: £400-£7,500 (single tooth to full mouth)
Recovery: Shorter than traditional surgery with minimal discomfort
How Much Does Receding Gums Treatment Cost?
This is the complete cost comparison for receding gums treatments in the UK.
| Treatment | NHS Cost | Private Cost | Available on NHS? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scale and polish | £27.40-£75.30 | £89-£195 | Yes |
| Deep cleaning (root planing) | £75.30 (Band 2) | £199-£1,040 | Yes |
| Desensitising agents | Within Band 2 | £30-£80 | Yes |
| Gum graft surgery | £75.30 (Band 2) | £300-£1,200/tooth | Very limited |
| Pinhole technique (PST) | Not available | £1,000-£3,000 | No |
| Guided tissue regeneration | Not typically | £1,000-£3,000 | Very limited |
| LANAP laser treatment | Not available | £400-£7,500 | No |
NHS prices for England effective from 1 April 2025. Private prices vary by provider and location.
The Cost of Waiting
Early intervention is dramatically cheaper than waiting until recession becomes severe:
| Stage | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Early (gingivitis, mild recession) | ~£85 |
| Moderate (early periodontitis) | ~£1,040 |
| Advanced (severe periodontitis) | £4,000+ |
| Tooth replacement (if teeth are lost) | £6,000-£13,500 |
The message is clear: the sooner you act, the less it costs. A £27.40 NHS check-up today could prevent thousands of pounds in treatment later.
Receding Gums Treatment on the NHS
The NHS provides good coverage for non-surgical periodontal treatment, all under the Band 2 charge of £75.30 in England.
What the NHS Covers
- Examination, diagnosis, and X-rays
- Scale and polish (if clinically necessary)
- Root planing and deep scaling
- Irrigation of periodontal pockets
- Basic gingival surgery (including some free gingival grafts, though availability is limited)
- Antibiotics
- Oral hygiene advice
What the NHS Typically Does Not Cover
- Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)
- LANAP laser treatment
- Guided tissue regeneration
- Advanced connective tissue grafts
NHS Dental Charges by Nation
| Nation | Band 1 (Exam) | Band 2 (Treatment) | Band 3 (Complex) |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | £27.40 | £75.30 | £326.70 |
| Wales | £20.00 | £60.00 | £260.00 |
| Scotland | 80% of cost, max £384 | 80% of cost, max £384 | 80% of cost, max £384 |
| Northern Ireland | 80% of cost, max £384 | 80% of cost, max £384 | 80% of cost, max £384 |
NHS dental charges for England effective from 1 April 2025. Scotland offers free examinations for all and free dental care for under-26s.
Hospital Referral for Advanced Cases
If you have advanced periodontal disease, your NHS dentist can refer you to a hospital periodontal specialist. Major NHS trusts offering these services include UCLH, Guy's and St Thomas' (London), and the University Dental Hospital of Manchester. Hospital treatment is free at the point of use, though waiting times can be significant.
Who Gets Free NHS Dental Treatment?
You are entitled to free NHS dental treatment if you:
- Are under 18 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- Are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
- Receive Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Receive Universal Credit with earnings of £435 or less (£935 or less with qualifying circumstances)
- Hold a valid HC2 certificate (NHS Low Income Scheme)
Full eligibility details are available from NHSBSA.
How to Stop Receding Gums Getting Worse
While recession cannot be reversed naturally, you can take effective steps to prevent it from progressing.
1. Fix Your Brushing Technique
This is the single most impactful change for many people:
- Use a soft or ultra-soft bristled toothbrush
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line
- Use gentle circular motions, not side-to-side scrubbing
- Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day
- Do not rinse immediately after brushing -- this washes away the fluoride
"Don't rinse your mouth immediately after brushing, as it'll wash away the concentrated fluoride in the remaining toothpaste." -- NHS
2. Consider an Electric Toothbrush
An 11-year study found that electric toothbrush users had 22% less gum recession and 18% less tooth decay than manual brush users. Many electric models include pressure sensors that warn you when you are brushing too hard -- particularly helpful if aggressive brushing is causing your recession.
3. Clean Between Your Teeth Daily
Use interdental brushes or floss every day. Interdental brushes should fit snugly between the teeth. The NHS recommends against wooden toothpicks as they risk gum damage.
4. Stop Smoking
Smokers are up to 5 times more likely to develop severe gum disease. Quitting is one of the most impactful things you can do for your gum health. Research shows improvements begin within weeks, with significant benefits within 12 months. The NHS offers free smoking cessation support.
5. Use Mouthwash at the Right Time
Use a fluoride mouthwash at a different time from brushing -- for example, after lunch. Using it straight after brushing washes away the concentrated fluoride from your toothpaste.
6. Address Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth, speak to your dentist about a mouthguard (occlusal splint). This protects both your teeth and gums from excessive force. Read our guide on bruxism for more information.
7. Eat Well
Reduce sugary foods and drinks. Ensure your diet includes adequate vitamin C (supports gum tissue), calcium and vitamin D (support bone around teeth), and B vitamins, iron, and zinc (linked to gum health).
8. Attend Regular Dental Check-Ups
Your dentist can spot early recession before you notice it yourself. Regular professional cleaning removes tartar that home brushing cannot reach.
Receding Gums and Your Overall Health
There is growing evidence that gum disease affects far more than your mouth.
Heart Disease
A 2025 randomised clinical trial by University College London found that intensive gum disease treatment reduced cardiovascular disease risk by approximately 20%. Patients with periodontitis had more than double the risk of stroke compared to those with healthy gums.
"Even a 0.01mm reduction [in carotid artery thickening] corresponds to a 10% decrease in cardiovascular disease risk." -- Dr Marco Orlandi, UCL (UCL News, November 2025)
Diabetes
Patients with periodontal disease have a 26% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and intensive gum therapy reduced blood glucose levels by 0.6% more than standard care over 12 months (British Dental Journal). The relationship works both ways -- people with diabetes are also more susceptible to gum disease.
Other Conditions
UK research has also found associations between gum disease and respiratory disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, rheumatoid arthritis, and mental health conditions (University of Birmingham, 2021).
When to See a Dentist About Receding Gums
Book a routine dental appointment if you notice:
- Teeth that look longer than they used to
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A notch you can feel at the gum line
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Persistent bad breath
Seek an urgent appointment if you have:
- Very swollen or painful gums
- Loose teeth or teeth that feel like they are moving
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Severe pain when chewing
What Happens at a Periodontal Assessment
Your dentist will:
- Take your history -- duration of symptoms, brushing habits, smoking, medications, family history
- Perform a Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE) -- using a probe to measure pocket depths around each tooth, scored 0 to 4
- Check for bleeding -- active bleeding on probing indicates inflammation
- Test tooth mobility -- checking whether teeth feel loose
- Take X-rays -- to assess bone levels around the teeth
- Create a treatment plan -- based on the severity and cause of your recession
Frequently Asked Questions
Can receding gums grow back naturally?
No. Once gum tissue has receded, it does not grow back on its own. Treatment focuses on stopping further recession and, where appropriate, surgically restoring gum coverage through procedures like gum grafts. This is why early detection and prevention are so important.
How much does it cost to fix receding gums on the NHS?
NHS periodontal treatment in England costs £75.30 (Band 2), which covers both non-surgical and surgical procedures including deep cleaning, root planing, and basic gingival surgery. This is the same charge regardless of how many appointments are needed. In Wales it is £60.00, while Scotland and Northern Ireland charge 80% of the treatment cost, capped at £384.
What is the best treatment for receding gums?
The best treatment depends on the severity and cause. For mild recession caused by aggressive brushing, improving your technique and professional cleaning may be sufficient. For moderate to severe recession, gum graft surgery is the most established treatment with high success rates. The Pinhole Surgical Technique offers a minimally invasive alternative, though it is less widely available in the UK.
Is gum graft surgery painful?
Gum graft surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is common for 1 to 2 weeks, particularly at the donor site (roof of the mouth), and is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers. Most patients describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful.
How long does gum graft recovery take?
Initial healing takes 1 to 2 weeks, during which you will eat soft foods and avoid brushing the treated area. Full recovery takes 4 to 8 weeks. Your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions. The Pinhole Surgical Technique has a much shorter recovery -- most patients return to normal within 24 to 48 hours.
Can an electric toothbrush cause receding gums?
When used correctly, no. In fact, an 11-year study showed electric toothbrush users had 22% less gum recession. Many electric brushes include pressure sensors to prevent over-brushing. The key is using gentle pressure regardless of which type of brush you use.
Should I use a hard or soft toothbrush if my gums are receding?
Always use a soft or ultra-soft bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can physically wear away gum tissue, worsening recession. The NHS recommends "medium or soft" bristles, and dental professionals treating recession specifically recommend soft or ultra-soft.
At what age do gums start receding?
Gum recession can begin at any age, but it becomes noticeably more common from around age 30 onwards. Approximately 38% of adults aged 30 to 39 have some recession, rising to 71% by ages 50 to 59. In younger adults, the most common cause is aggressive brushing rather than gum disease.
Is receding gums treatment covered by dental insurance?
Most UK dental insurance plans cover periodontal treatment, though the extent varies by policy. NHS treatment at £75.30 (Band 2) is already significantly subsidised. For private surgical treatments (gum grafts, PST), check your specific policy for coverage limits and any waiting periods.
Can stress cause receding gums?
Stress does not directly cause recession, but it can contribute indirectly. Stress often leads to teeth grinding (bruxism), which puts excessive force on gums. Stress can also weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to gum disease. Managing stress through exercise, sleep, and relaxation can support your gum health.
Find a Dentist for Receding Gums Treatment
If you have noticed signs of gum recession, do not wait for it to get worse. The earlier you seek treatment, the simpler and more affordable it will be. Treating periodontal disease costs the NHS £4.7 billion per year -- much of which could be prevented with earlier intervention.
Use our search to find dentists in your area who offer periodontal treatment, and book a check-up today.
