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Receding gums are often a symptom of other dental problems you may have, such as periodontal disease or overly aggressive brushing and flossing. While there are several more culprits, your teeth may look longer now than before. While it can make you self-conscious, will the soft tissue be able to grow back? Here’s what you need to know and how your periodontist is here to help.
Will My Receding Gums Grow Back?
Unfortunately, your gums cannot grow back naturally. It’s a permanent issue that you will have to deal with if you have experienced the recession. Not only that, but once the tissue starts to pull away from your teeth, the bone beneath them can also start to deteriorate. While it may not get better, you should still do your part in preventing it from worsening.
How Can I Prevent My Gums from Receding?
By going to your periodontist, you can find the reason for your gum recession. Periodontal disease is often a culprit, which is an infection in the soft tissues of your mouth. There are several ways you can treat this condition, from a deep cleaning known as a scaling and root planing, Perio Protect, and laser gum surgery. These will all encourage reattachment and help your oral health become stronger.
If you brush or floss aggressively, then these might be the culprit instead. For those who do this, your provider and hygienist will work with you to help you be gentler while you take care of your smile. For instance, you may switch to an electric toothbrush that has a pressure sensor on it.
Teeth grinding or clenching, misalignment, hormonal changes, and injuries can also cause gum recession. By talking with your provider, you can learn more about what’s affecting your health and ways you can avoid further harm to your grin.
Can I Reverse Gum Recession?
If you have receding gums, then the good news is that you may not be out of luck. While they can’t grow back, your periodontist may offer several treatments to help lessen it. For instance, you can use a tissue grafting service. These procedures help cover your exposed tooth roots, keeping them protected and avoiding sensitivity.
Although gum recession can be permanent, your provider is here to help. They will be able to learn about what’s causing the issue and help you fix it; that way, you can avoid it from worsening and learn the next steps to get back to a stronger smile.
About the Author
Dr. Bita Farhoumand earned her dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry. She is now a board-certified periodontist helping the Encinitas community with their gum health. By working with you to fight off infections in these soft tissues or offering grafting when needed, you can feel that your grin is in great shape. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Farhoumand’s office at (760) 470-4664.
