Gum recession is a common problem. Have you noticed that your teeth seem longer than they used to, or are you experiencing increased dental sensitivity? If so, you might wonder if anything can be done to make your receding gums grow back. This blog post explains common reasons for gum recessions and what you can do about it.
Receding Gums Cannot Grow Back
Unfortunately, gum tissue does not regenerate on its own once it has receded. This means that lost gum tissue will not grow back to cover the exposed areas of your teeth. For this reason, early intervention is very important to prevent further recession and to address the underlying causes as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
The leading cause of gum recession is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. When bacteria in plaque accumulate along the gumline, they can trigger inflammation and infection, gradually breaking down gum tissue and the bone that supports it. Poor oral hygiene is a common contributor to gum disease, but things like genetics, diabetes, and other factors can also play a role in its development.
Other potential causes of gum recession include:
- Brushing your teeth too aggressively, which can wear away gum tissue over time.
- Genetic factors that make some people more prone to gum problems.
- Orthodontic treatment that shifts teeth and causes inflammation and pressure on your jawbone. (This is relatively rare.)
Managing Receding Gums
There are several steps you can take to manage receding gums and protect your oral health:
- Practicing good oral hygiene is essential — this means brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouth rinse if recommended by your dentist.
- Regular dental checkups allow your dental team to monitor your gum health and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. If your dentist identifies early signs of gum disease, timely treatment can help prevent further recession.
- You may choose to use a sensitivity-reducing toothpaste to manage sensitivity that is the result of exposed tooth roots.
In situations where gum loss is advanced, a gum graft performed by a dental specialist may be necessary to restore your gumline and protect your teeth.
Gum recession should not be ignored! Talk to your dentist about this issue to find out how you can stop its progression and manage its symptoms.
Meet the Practice At Willow Run Dental Association, we provide a broad range of oral health services for the Auburn, ME, community. Gum disease treatment, preventive care, and coaching on oral hygiene are among the many ways in which we help our patients. If you would like to learn how we may be able to support your oral health journey, contact us at 207-352-2825.