Noticing that your teeth look a little longer than they used to can be surprising—and often a bit concerning. In many cases, this change is caused by gum recession, where the gum tissue gradually pulls away from the teeth and exposes more of the tooth surface or even the root.

Gum recession is more than just a cosmetic issue. It can be a sign of underlying oral health concerns, and it’s important to understand what may be causing it so you can take steps to prevent it from progressing.