Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

The short answer to this question is no, receding gums do not grow back. Let’s identify what causes receding gums first to give you the opportunity to slow the gum recession. We can also look at treatments for receding gums such that the introduction of a procedure will stop the recession as well. Finally, there are some surgical options to replace the lost tissue.

What Causes Receding Gums?

Almost half of the country’s adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. The primary cause is damaging plaque. This clear sticky substance forms on the teeth when you do not exercise good oral hygiene habits and brush your teeth twice a daily for two minutes at a time. The sugars and acids in the plaque attack the enamel of the teeth resulting in decay and cavities. When the plaque works its way down the tooth and comes in contact with the gums the bacteria immediately infects the soft tissue. The gums swell and begin pulling away from the teeth causing pockets around each tooth.

A second cause of gum recession is when you do just the opposite of neglect. Now you brush too aggressively and literally wear the gum away. A third cause is quite common, that is the aging process. Gum recession can also be the result of family genetics or medical issues such as diabetes.

Several Treatments to Improve Gum Recession

The most prevalent treatment is deep cleaning to remove the damaging plaque. This scaling and root planing process is done with a handheld scaler in which the plaque is manually scrapped from the tooth below the gumline. By removing the source of the infection, the soft tissue will react favorably within days. The swelling will subside, the pockets will close, and the natural color will return.

If you are brushing too aggressively you will be given instructions on how to not do so. The dentist can also cover the sensitive roots with a bonding compound. This tooth colored composite can be shaped and sculpted around the exposed root to protect it.

Options Involving Surgery to Replace Lost Gum Tissue

Since the soft tissue will not grow back, another option for you and your dentist is to have some gum tissue grafted from another place in your mouth. This process can protect the tooth, improve the appearance and protect from future bone loss. A second surgical approach is flap surgery. A small incision is made in the gum tissue to remove plaque they could not reach. After the bacteria is removed the tissue is replaced.

The Benefits of Healthy Gums

Gum disease is relatively painless which is why it goes undetected. Some common symptoms are bad breath, swollen and red gums, a bad taste in your mouth and bleeding when you brush. By keeping your gums healthy it helps address the whole of your mouth. A healthy smile includes healthy teeth, healthy gums and all soft tissue. The smile is a very undervalued personal asset. Take care of your smile, appreciate what that smile does for you in contributing to your personality.

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