Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

Receding gums is a problem associated most often with periodontal disease, but it can also be a result of trauma, intense brushing, or simply a genetic predisposition you might have. Whatever the cause may be, it’s upsetting to notice that your teeth are more exposed and to consider the complications that come with these symptoms. 

Do receding gums grow back? The short answer is no. Gum tissue does not regenerate like skin or other types of tissue, so the only thing that can be done in case of receding gums is to stop the process and to undergo gum-grafting surgery to regenerate the gums. 

Here are the most important things you need to know about receding gums and their treatment. 

Causes of Receding Gums

The most common causes for receding gums are:

• Vigorous Brushing: When using anything other than a toothbrush with soft bristles, you risk putting too much force when brushing, causing damage to the gums and exposing them to infections. Brushing with abrasive substances or excessively can have the same effect. It’s best to invest in an electric toothbrush to protect your gums while still cleaning your teeth efficiently. 
  

• Periodontal Disease: Gingivitis attacks gums and makes them retreat, creating pockets in between the tooth root and the gum tissue. Bacteria infiltrates in those pockets and further irritates the gums, causes decay, and attacks the bone underneath. Periodontal disease has to be treated completely to stop receding gums. 
  

Treatment for Receding Gums

Before considering any other options for receding gums, the dentist and oral hygienist have to thoroughly clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar from the gingival pockets and all around. A treatment plan needs to be put in place for treating gum disease, if present, and tooth decay that can infect and irritate the gums. 

A change in your lifestyle choices would also be indicated, especially quitting smoking and alcohol and implementing a rigorous oral hygiene routine. 

For more severe cases of receding gums, surgical treatments are available, in which the dental surgeon transfers tissue grafts to the area, or sutures the gums back in place. Root planing is also a good option: the dentist smooths out the surface of your teeth roots, preventing bacteria from clinging to it easily. 

Book an Appointment in Sarasota Today

If you show any signs of receding gums, book an appointment for a professional cleaning and a consultation as soon as you can. Dr. Robert Miller is experienced, empathetic, and patient and will find the best solution for you, based on thorough discussions. 

We at Sarasota Bay Dental welcome patients of all ages and prefer the least invasive treatments, together with top technologies and methods to fix dental issues for our patients. Contact us to book an appointment and to ask any questions you may have.