what's happening in at least two different places in my mouth is that the "hidden" teeth that are out of line are pushing the "visible" teeth out of their socket. so, it looks like recession, but it's actually pressure from the back teeth. 

while removing the back teeth might relieve the pressure, it kind of looks like the damage is already done and that if i'm going to pull something then i should pull the visible teeth, and cover up the gums.

but, i'm obviously not in a hurry to do it.....even if i'm realizing it's probably unavoidable, long term...