Science Focus - the home of BBC Science Focus Magazine
Why do gums recede? © Getty Images

Why do gums recede?

By
Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine and get 6 issues for just £9.99

Gum disease is surprisingly common and damages the healthy bone your gums need to grow on.

Asked by: Lewis Pollard, Leeds

Advertisement

The main cause is gum disease. A 2010 study found that 47 per cent of Americans over 30 had some degree of gum disease. The bacteria attack the bone tissue in your jaw just behind the gum and cause it to slowly erode. Without healthy bone tissue to act as a scaffold, the gums first peel away from the tooth and eventually shrink back. Regular toothbrushing and flossing can fight gum infection but overbrushing damages gums too.

Advertisement

Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.

Authors

luis villazon
Luis VillazonQ&A expert

Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine

Subscription offer

Subscribe and try your first 3 issues for just £5. After your introductory period you will pay just £22.99 every 6 issues by Direct Debit. Receive every issue delivered direct to your door with FREE UK delivery.

SUBSCRIBE NOW
Advertisement

Sponsored content

Science Focus Podcast

Listen to some of the brightest names in science and technology talk about the ideas and breakthroughs shaping our world.

LISTEN