The mouth recovers fast from minor injuries. The tissues inside it are good at repairing themselves! For instance, when you accidentally bite your cheek, it hurts at first, but it heals in no time.
If so, when your gums start pulling back, they should grow back, too, right? Unfortunately, that is not the case.
Receding gums are a common concern that many people do not notice until symptoms are obvious. Teeth may look longer, sensitivity may increase, and brushing might feel uncomfortable. Let us reveal why they happen, and what you and your dentist near me can do about them.
Understanding
Receding gums are when the tissue gradually moves away from the teeth, exposing more of their surfaces and, sometimes, the roots underneath. Here are some of the reasons they develop:
- Periodontal Disease: This serious form of gum disease affects both the tissue and the supporting bone structure. It begins with gingivitis, in which the gums may look a little red or swollen, and they might bleed when you brush. The inflammation can spread deeper if left untreated. Take note that almost half of adults in the United States have some form of Periodontal disease.
- Bruxism: Do you clench or grind your teeth? This habit, whether conscious or unconscious, puts excessive pressure on the teeth. When teeth are constantly pushed or rocked back and forth, the stress transfers to the ligaments and tissues that surround them, causing irritation and weakening.
- Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard wears down the tissue. Many people believe that scrubbing vigorously makes their teeth cleaner, when the goal is really just to sweep away bacteria.
Other causes of gum recession include trauma or injury to your gum tissue, teeth misalignment, tobacco use, and lip and tongue piercings. It is best to check in with dentistry professionals to learn more about your gums, overall oral health, and lifestyle.
Can They Grow Back?
No, you cannot reverse receding gums. Unlike skin, gum tissue has limited regenerative ability. That means while dentistry offers ways to protect, repair, and even restore the appearance of the gums, simply waiting for them to regenerate on their own is impossible.
What To Do
Healthy gums fit comfortably and securely around each tooth. When they pull back, exposure of the tooth leads to sensitivity. Also, acids and bacteria have easier access to areas prone to decay, increasing the risk of cavities.
Fortunately, even though they do not grow back naturally, there are many ways to stop the condition from worsening. The best approach depends on the underlying cause.
Nonsurgical Treatments
In milder cases, dentists manage receding gums with nonsurgical procedures that focus on controlling bacteria and promoting healing. Here are two common choices:
- Antibiotics: Dentists usually recommend drug therapy alongside other dental procedures. By taking short courses of oral antibiotics or applying medications directly to the gum tissue, you reduce infection and inflammation.
- Deep Dental Cleaning: During this procedure, your dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar both above and below the gumline. Then, they smooth the surface of the tooth roots, making it more difficult for bacteria to stick and easier for healthy tissue to reattach.
It is also possible to have the affected area camouflaged with tooth-colored composite resin. This bonding covers your exposed root so it is less noticeable and more comfortable. For crooked, tipped, or rotated teeth, orthodontics like braces may help the gum margin correct itself.
Surgical Treatments
When gum recession is more advanced, surgery may be the only option. A periodontist — a dentist specializing in gum health — removes damaged tissue and reduces deep pockets around the teeth. By reshaping the gumline and thoroughly cleaning the area, they create a healthier foundation for healing.
Another predictable and long-lasting treatment is gum graft surgery. Dentists use a small piece of tissue to replace missing gum tissue. They might take a graft from the roof of your mouth or get sterilized donor tissue. Once positioned correctly, they carefully stitch it into place. Modern dentistry has made gum grafting far less invasive than many patients expect.
Dentists only recommend a surgical procedure when other alternatives have not stopped periodontal disease from progressing.
Final Words
Taking care of your gums is part of taking care of your oral health. Generally, never forget to brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember to be gentle! Floss regularly, and stay consistent with routine dental visits, too.
Have you noticed anything a little off with your gums lately? Maybe they look different, feel more sensitive, or bleed when you brush. Do not wait until it is too late!
At John Patterson, DMD, we offer comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages in Chandler, Arizona. Dr. John Patterson is the premier general and cosmetic dentist Chandler AZ in the area, trusted to help patients achieve and maintain optimum oral health.
Call (480) 519-0112 or book an appointment online. We may not be able to reverse receding gums, but we can absolutely ensure they do not take away your bright smile and confidence.
