Can Receding Gums Grow Back after Gum Recession?

close-up smileDo you feel like your teeth look longer than they used to? Are you experiencing worse tooth sensitivity than you have in the past? If so, gum recession may be to blame. This is especially likely if you have had gum recession in Belmont.

The effects of this condition affect the way your smile looks and your oral health as well, which may leave you wondering if receding gums can grow back. Unfortunately, the answer is no — but gum grafting can help you enjoy healthy, complete gums once again.

What Causes Receding Gums

Compared to your teeth, your gum (periodontal) tissue is rather delicate and can be pushed back by your toothbrush if you are cleaning too hard and have had braces, or it may slowly disappear as bone loss connected with gum disease worsens.

You may notice gum recession because of the way it looks — like your gums are literally pulling away from the gum line — or you may experience new sensitivity to heat, cold, and air around the root of your tooth.

Treating Gum Recession

If you know or suspect you are dealing with receding gums, get in touch with your dentist. There is one excellent option for replacing the missing tissue: soft tissue/gum grafting. With this treatment, healthy tissue is taken from elsewhere (usually from the roof of the mouth) and placed into the area where it has been lost. Today, dermal allografts or collagen products can often be used to avoid harvesting tissue from the roof of the mouth.

How to Prevent Gum Recession

As with any oral health issue, the best way to deal with disappearing gum tissue is to take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place. To keep your periodontal tissue healthy and intact, you are encouraged to keep the following in mind:

  • Brush your teeth gently, in circular motions, for two minutes, twice daily
  • Look for a “soft” bristled toothbrush
  • Floss between teeth daily
  • Visit your dentist for a checkup and cleaning at least every six months
  • Ask your dentist about other special steps that can help you prevent gum recession

Take heed of these steps and you can stay one step ahead of gum disease and resulting recession — for a long-lasting, complete smile.   

Meet the Periodontist

Dr. Alexander Schrott is the periodontist serving Belmont with exceptional and experienced care. To learn more about treatment for gum recession or to schedule an appointment for the same, please do not hesitate to contact the office at (617) 484-9240.