Gum recession is a common issue that occurs when your gums start to pull away from the teeth. If it worsens, it can make your teeth more vulnerable to decay and infections. A common question dentists hear is: “Do receding gums grow back?”
Unfortunately, once gum tissue has receded, it cannot regenerate. However, the good news is that there are different treatment options to restore a healthy gumline. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Healthy gums act as a protective barrier around your teeth, which helps maintain your oral health and smile. But over time, you may notice your gums gradually pulling away and exposing some part of the tooth roots. Several factors can contribute to gum recession, including:
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing or flossing can cause increased plaque buildup, making gum recession more likely.
- Periodontal disease: Patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease often notice receding gums as the issue progresses.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excessive pressure from grinding your teeth can also cause your gums to recede. The recession is caused by occlusal trauma interacting with thin gum tissues, not grinding alone.
Apart from the above, anatomical thin tissue, smoking/vaping, malpositioned teeth, hormonal changes, and lip/tongue piercings contribute significantly to recession.
Do Receding Gums Grow Back?
If you have mild gum inflammation or swelling due to early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), professional periodontal treatment can restore the health of your gums. In contrast, once gum tissue has pulled away from the tooth roots, it does not regrow tissue lost due to recession.
Gums cannot regenerate, but this does not mean that the issue cannot be corrected. Fortunately, there are various advanced treatment solutions that can help restore a natural-looking gumline.
The earlier you seek professional dental care, the greater the chances of treating the issue and preventing further gum recession.
Treatment Options for Receding Gums
Depending on the extent of gum recession and your oral health, your dentist or periodontist may recommend one of the following treatment options:
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
This cleaning procedure is different from routine cleanings. It removes plaque and tartar deep below the gumline and smoothes the tooth root surfaces to promote pocket reduction and improved tissue tone.
Gum Drop Technique (GDT)
It is one of the latest, biologically enhanced soft-tissue procedures for gum recession treatment. In this technique, your own blood derivatives (containing growth factors) are used to promote gum healing.
Gum Grafting Surgery
If you have severe gum recession, a gum graft surgery may be necessary. Your periodontist takes a tissue graft from your own mouth, or a donor source, and places over the receding areas to cover and protect the exposed tooth roots.
Final Thoughts
Although receding gums cannot grow back, you can restore your gumline and prevent further complications with advanced treatment options. If you have been noticing signs of gum recession, visit our qualified expert at Houston Biological Dentist today. We will assess your specific needs and help determine the best solution for you. Call us at (713) 785-7767 to book an appointment today!