Gum recession is a common dental issue where the gum tissue pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can make teeth appear longer and may lead to increased sensitivity or other dental problems. Understanding this condition is a first step toward maintaining healthy gums and a healthy smile.
Can Gums Regrow Naturally?
Once gum tissue has receded, it cannot regrow naturally. Unlike some other body tissues, gum tissue lacks the biological mechanisms to spontaneously rebuild itself. Therefore, addressing gum recession requires professional intervention to prevent further issues.
Causes of Gum Recession
Several factors contribute to gum recession, often stemming from everyday habits or underlying health conditions. Aggressive tooth brushing, using excessive force or a hard-bristled toothbrush, can wear away delicate gum tissue over time.
Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection affecting gum tissue and the supporting bone, is another primary cause of recession. Plaque and tartar buildup inflames the gums, causing them to detach from the teeth and potentially leading to bone loss. Genetics also play a role, as some individuals are predisposed to thinner gum tissue or are more susceptible to gum disease, regardless of their oral hygiene habits.
Other factors contributing to gum recession include:
Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), which exerts excessive force on teeth and gum tissue, leading to microtrauma and inflammation.
Poor dental hygiene, allowing plaque to harden into tartar, contributing to gum inflammation.
Tobacco use (smoking or chewing), which irritates gum tissues and restricts blood flow.
Misaligned teeth or lip and tongue piercings, which can put unusual pressure on gums.
Treatment Options for Receding Gums
Addressing existing gum recession often involves various professional treatments designed to halt progression and restore gum health. Non-surgical approaches are typically considered first, especially for milder cases or when gum disease is the primary cause. A deep cleaning procedure, known as scaling and root planing, removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This process smooths the tooth roots, helping gums reattach and reducing bacterial pockets.
Dentists may also use topical antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses to manage infection if gum disease is present. Dental bonding, using tooth-colored composite resin, can camouflage exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity and improving appearance. In cases where misaligned teeth contribute to recession, orthodontic treatment might be recommended to reposition teeth and allow the gum margin to improve naturally.
For more advanced recession, surgical procedures are often necessary. Gum grafting is a common solution, involving transplanting healthy gum tissue to the affected area. Connective tissue grafts, the most common type, involve taking tissue from beneath the surface of the roof of the mouth and attaching it to the receded area to cover exposed roots and thicken gum tissue. Free gingival grafts also use tissue from the roof of the mouth, taking a thin top layer, often to thicken naturally thin gums or increase the zone of attached tissue.
Another option is a pedicle graft, which utilizes gum tissue adjacent to the recession site, partially detaching it and rotating or sliding it over the exposed root. This method is beneficial because the tissue maintains its blood supply, aiding in healing. In some instances where bone loss has occurred, regenerative procedures might be performed during surgery. These involve applying regenerative materials like membranes or tissue-stimulating proteins to encourage the body to rebuild lost bone and tissue.
Preventing Further Recession
Preventing further gum recession involves adopting consistent and appropriate oral care practices. Brushing teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush is important, using small, circular motions rather than aggressive scrubbing. Hard brushing can wear away enamel and gum tissue, contributing to recession.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important for early detection and prevention. Dentists can identify early signs of gum issues and remove plaque and tartar buildup that home care cannot. If teeth grinding or clenching is a concern, discussing this with a dentist can lead to solutions like wearing a nightguard to protect teeth and gums from excessive force.
Quitting tobacco products significantly reduces the risk of gum disease and recession, as tobacco irritates gums and impairs healing. Maintaining a balanced diet supports overall gum health. Daily flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline, preventing bacterial accumulation that can lead to inflammation and recession. These preventive measures, combined with professional guidance, help maintain long-term gum health and prevent recession progression.