dental hygiene
If your gums are pulling away from your teeth you might wonder whether gums will grow back on their own. Unfortunately receding gums do not usually regenerate naturally. Once gum tissue has been lost, brushing harder or waiting for it to return will not rebuild gums.
That does not mean you are stuck with worsening gum recession. The right treatment can protect the gumline. Stop gums from getting worse. In some cases a dentist can cover exposed roots with a gum graft.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue around a tooth wears away or moves down. Sometimes it is linked to gum disease, where infection damages the tissues that support your teeth. Times aggressive brushing is the culprit especially if you have been scrubbing your teeth as if they have personally offended you.
Gums can also recede because of thin gum tissue or pressure around a tooth. A positioned tooth may be more exposed and therefore more vulnerable.
What Does Recession Look Like?
• A tooth suddenly looks longer which is often the thing people notice in the mirror.
• Cold drinks causing a little zing, especially around one particular tooth.
• Your gumline looks lower on one side. It can be subtle at first.
Can Receding Gums Grow Back Naturally?
No. Lost gum tissue does not normally grow back by itself. That is the part.
Still early gum recession can often be managed before it becomes a problem. Your dentist can check why the gum has moved and deal with the cause. If gum disease is involved treating the infection becomes important. If your brushing technique is damaging the gums changing how you brush can prevent wear.
Can Treatment Restore Lost Gum Tissue?
A gum graft is one option when more coverage is needed. During this procedure a dentist takes an amount of tissue and places it over the exposed root. The area then heals as the new tissue settles into place.
This is different from treating sensitive teeth. The aim is to rebuild coverage around the tooth not make the sensitivity disappear.
What Should You Do About Receding Gums?
Do not attack the area with a toothbrush. That habit is worth dropping.
Use a toothbrush and gentle pressure. Your dentist can also check whether plaque buildup or gum disease is contributing to gum recession. Getting the cause under control matters, than obsessing over how the gumline looks today.
If the exposed root is becoming sensitive treatment can make eating and drinking feel much easier.. If gum recession is progressing, getting it checked sooner gives you more options.
Disclaimer
The information shared in our articles is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every smile is unique, and only a qualified dental professional can assess your individual oral health needs. If you have any concerns, please book an appointment with our team or consult your local dentist.
Read our Full Disclaimer.
