Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Deaton
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Reading time: three minutes
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or its root. It may affect one tooth or several and can develop so gradually that it is not immediately noticeable.
With two convenient locations in Summerville, Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages.
Can Receding Gums Grow Back?
Unfortunately, gum tissue that has been lost does not grow back. However, treating the cause can help prevent the recession from progressing and protect the exposed tooth roots from sensitivity, decay and further damage.
When inflammation or gum disease is treated, the gums may become less swollen, bleed less and fit more closely around the teeth. Although these changes can make the gums look and feel healthier, they do not replace tissue that has already been lost.
Why Do Gums Recede?
Several factors can contribute to receding gums. Identifying the cause is important because it helps determine which treatment may prevent the problem from becoming worse.
Common causes include:
- Gum disease that damages the tissue and bone supporting the teeth
- Brushing too firmly or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Naturally thin gum tissue or an inherited tendency toward recession
- Smoking or other tobacco use
- Crowded or misaligned teeth
- Grinding or clenching can place additional stress on the teeth and supporting tissues
- Oral piercings or repeated irritation near the gumline
How Are Receding Gums Treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the recession. A dental exam can determine whether the tissue loss is related to gum disease, brushing habits, tooth position or another concern.
Treatment may include:
- Changes to daily care: Switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle pressure can reduce further irritation. Your dentist can also demonstrate a brushing technique that cleans effectively without damaging the gumline.
- Scaling and root planing: If gum disease is the active cause, this deep cleaning removes plaque, tartar and bacteria from below the gumline. The tooth roots are then smoothed to support healing and help the gums fit more closely around the teeth. This treatment can control infection, but it cannot replace gum tissue that has already been lost.
- Protection for exposed roots: Fluoride treatments, desensitizing products or restorative care may help reduce sensitivity and protect exposed roots from decay.
- Gum grafting: More significant recession may require a referral to a periodontist. A gum graft can cover an exposed root, improve tissue thickness and help protect the area from further damage.
- Evaluation of occlusion: An occlusal guard may be recommended if clenching/grinding is diagnosed. Sometimes an evaluation with an orthodontist may be recommended if malalignment is contributing to occlusal trauma.
When Should You Schedule a Dental Examination?
Because gum recession often progresses slowly, it may not cause discomfort right away. Early evaluation can make it easier to address the cause before additional gum tissue or supporting bone is affected.
Consider scheduling an exam if you notice:
- Teeth that appear longer than they used to
- Visible or darker-looking tooth roots
- Sensitivity near the gumline
- Bleeding, swollen or tender gums
- Grooves or notches near the tooth roots
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
Protect Your Gum Health in Summerville
Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry provide gum evaluations, preventive care and scaling and root planing in Summerville. When more advanced treatment is needed, care can be coordinated with a trusted periodontal specialist.
To book an appointment at Deaton Dental Associates, call (843) 873-3706 or visit us at 209 W 5th N St, Summerville, SC 29483.
To book an appointment at Flowertown Dentistry, call (843) 871-0814 or visit us at 445 North Cedar St, Summerville, SC 29483.
FAQ
Is it possible to make gums grow back?
Gum tissue that has receded does not naturally grow back. However, treatment can stop the progression of recession and improve gum health. In some cases, surgical procedures like gum grafting can restore coverage over exposed tooth roots.
Will teeth fall out if gums recede?
Not necessarily. Mild gum recession does not usually lead to tooth loss. However, if gum disease is left untreated and continues to damage the supporting bone and tissues, teeth can eventually become loose and may be at risk of falling out.
Is it too late to save my receding gums?
In most cases, it is not too late to take action. While lost gum tissue cannot be fully restored naturally, early and appropriate treatment can slow or stop further recession and help preserve the remaining gum and bone structure.
