Can my receding gums grow back?

Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Receding and inflamed gums are a sign your gums are in the beginning stages of gum disease. Gum recession will occur when the gums pull away from the tooth and recede causing root exposure. Health care professionals refer to this process as gingival recession which can also be called periodontal disease. Unfortunately, gum recession is irreversible, however, there are many at home treatments patients can take to improve their oral health.

Common factors that cause gum recession:

Teeth grinding/clenching:

Many people who grind their teeth are not even aware they are doing so. The motion of grinding puts intense pressure on the gums which will cause them to recede over time. Teeth grinding can also lead to teeth becoming loose in their sockets. Loose sockets will allow for bacteria to become trapped causing inflammation that can make gum recession worse.

Aging:

Unfortunately, aging is inevitable, and the aging process can cause receding gum lines. Over time, the alveolar bone (the jawbone that houses the teeth) and the soft tissue (gums) of the mouth will experience damage due to repeated exposure to rough brushing, bacteria and acidic foods and drinks.

Injury:

Direct trauma to a specific area of the mouth can lead to gum recession. Such injuries include a fall, being hit in the face, very harsh brushing, or other such accidents to the face or mouth.

Forceful brushing:

This is a common mistake when it comes to daily brushing. The gingival margin, which is the area of the mouth where the gums contact the crown of the tooth, is where we tell patients to focus on the removal of bacteria from the mouth. However, brushing incorrectly or too hard can cause severe damage to the gums. Factors that can lead to gum recession include applying too hard of force, using a medium or hard bristled toothbrush, and brushing the teeth in a rough and horizontal motion.

Can gums grow back?

The simple answer to this question is, no. Gum cannot grow back naturally, however, further recession of gums is preventable, and when necessary, surgery can restore some gum tissue. The treatment for receding gums depends on what the underlying issue is which may or may not require surgery.

Proper Dental Care:

Examine your home dental care if recession is occurring. Some tips to consider are:
Changing your toothbrush regularly – make sure to use soft bristled and keep a gentle brush stroke.
New toothpaste – avoid abrasive toothpaste that can cause harm to the gums.
Maintain regular dental cleanings – see your dentist regularly for recommended preventative care.

Gum recession can be diagnosed at your regular scheduled visits at Smile Sarasota. Dr. Still and the hygienists keep records of your gums through yearly measurements. Proper dental care will keep you on track to maintaining a healthy and happy smile!