Gum recession involves gum tissue pulling away from the teeth, often exposing the root surfaces. When this occurs, individuals often seek treatment like deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, to address gum disease. This article clarifies the response of gum tissue following deep cleaning and directly addresses whether gums regenerate after such a procedure.
Understanding Gum Recession
Gum recession occurs when gum tissue wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This gradual process may go unnoticed until sensitivity or a tooth appearing longer. Receding gums create pockets between teeth and the gumline, where bacteria can accumulate.
Several factors contribute to gum recession. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection damaging gum tissue and bone, is a primary cause. Aggressive brushing, especially with a hard-bristled toothbrush, can also wear away gum tissue. Genetic predisposition can make individuals susceptible to thinner gum tissue or gum disease. Other factors include trauma, teeth grinding or clenching, misaligned teeth, and tobacco use.
Deep Cleaning and Gum Tissue Response
Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure to treat gum disease by meticulously removing plaque and tartar. Scaling removes hardened plaque and bacteria from tooth surfaces, both above and below the gumline. Root planing then smooths root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to reattach.
Gum tissue lost to recession generally does not regenerate or “grow back” naturally. However, deep cleaning effectively halts gum disease progression by eliminating infection. Removing harmful bacteria allows existing gum tissue to heal, tighten, and reattach more firmly to cleaned tooth surfaces. This reattachment reduces periodontal pocket depth, where bacteria thrive.
This process is healing and re-adaptation of existing tissue, not new growth. While gums may not return to their original height, improved reattachment can create a healthier, firmer gumline appearance. Discomfort and sensitivity after deep cleaning typically subside within days, with full healing taking four to six weeks.
Addressing Significant Gum Recession
Deep cleaning halts disease progression and promotes reattachment but does not regrow lost gum tissue. For significant gum recession, other procedures restore the gumline. Gum grafting is a common surgical option, placing new tissue where recession has occurred.
Several types of gum grafting procedures exist:
Connective tissue graft: Tissue is taken from beneath a flap on the roof of the mouth and attached to the receded area.
Free gingival graft: Tissue is taken directly from the surface layer of the roof of the mouth, often to increase gum thickness.
Pedicle graft: Gum tissue from an adjacent area is repositioned to cover the exposed root.
Allograft: Medically processed donor tissue can be used, avoiding the need for tissue from the patient’s mouth.
These procedures aim to cover exposed roots, reduce tooth sensitivity, and improve the gumline’s appearance.
Maintaining Long-Term Gum Health
Maintaining long-term gum health after deep cleaning prevents further recession and ensures gum tissue stability. Consistent oral hygiene is fundamental. This includes brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, using a gentle circular motion. Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and beneath the gumline.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also crucial. While routine cleanings are typically every six months, those who had deep cleaning may need more frequent periodontal maintenance visits (every three to four months). These appointments monitor gum health, control tartar, and detect early disease recurrence. Avoiding habits like smoking and aggressive brushing also preserves gum health.