Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This condition can lead to several concerns, including increased tooth sensitivity, as the protective enamel layer does not cover the exposed root surfaces. It also raises the risk of tooth decay, as the softer root is more vulnerable to bacterial acids. Beyond these health implications, gum recession can also affect the aesthetics of your smile, making teeth appear longer than usual. Addressing gum recession is important for maintaining both oral health and the appearance of your teeth.
Can Gums Regenerate?
Once gum tissue has receded, it does not grow back naturally. Unlike other tissues, such as skin, the specialized structure of gum tissue does not allow for spontaneous regeneration. The attachment between the gum and the underlying bone, once lost, does not reform without intervention. While the mouth heals minor injuries, this capacity does not extend to rebuilding lost gum tissue. Addressing gum recession requires professional dental treatments.
What Leads to Gum Recession?
Understanding the factors that contribute to gum recession is important for prevention and treatment. One common cause is aggressive tooth brushing, where excessive force or hard-bristled toothbrushes can wear away gum tissue.
Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gums, is a primary cause. It destroys gum tissue and supporting bone, leading to recession and pocket formation.
Genetic predisposition to thinner gum tissue or higher susceptibility to gum disease can also increase risk. Poor oral hygiene, allowing plaque and tartar to accumulate, inflames and damages gum tissue, causing recession.
Habits like teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) exert excessive force, leading to tissue breakdown. Misaligned teeth or bite problems (malocclusion) can create uneven pressure, contributing to recession.
Trauma or injury can directly damage gum tissue. Oral piercings, especially in the lip or tongue, can constantly rub against gums, irritating them and leading to tissue wear.
Professional Approaches to Gum Recession
When gums recede, dental professionals offer various approaches, tailored to the recession’s extent and cause. A periodontist, a gum health specialist, typically leads these treatments.
Non-surgical options begin with deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing. This involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, then smoothing tooth roots to deter bacterial reattachment. Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to manage bacterial infections. For mild cases, or to cover exposed root surfaces for sensitivity and aesthetics, dental bonding can be used. This involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the exposed area, then shaping and hardening it.
For significant recession, surgical treatments are recommended. Gum grafting is a common procedure where tissue is taken from one part of the mouth or a donor source to cover exposed tooth roots. Common types include connective tissue grafts, using tissue from under a flap on the roof of the mouth, and free gingival grafts, taking a direct strip from the palate. Pedicle grafts utilize tissue from gums adjacent to the affected tooth, partially cutting and repositioning it to cover recession, viable when sufficient nearby gum tissue exists.
In advanced cases, particularly with bone loss, regenerative procedures may be employed. Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) involves placing a barrier membrane between gum and bone to encourage new bone and periodontal ligament tissue growth. This procedure is combined with bone grafts, where bone material (from the patient, a donor, or synthetic) is placed to rebuild lost bone structure, providing a stable foundation. Consulting with a dentist or periodontist is important for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.
Protecting Your Gums from Further Recession
Preventing further gum recession involves diligent oral hygiene and lifestyle adjustments. Proper brushing technique is important. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions, holding the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage delicate gum tissue.
Regular flossing is equally important. Gently guide the floss between teeth, curving it around each tooth at the gum line to remove plaque and food particles without snapping it against the gums. If recommended by a dentist, incorporate an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria contributing to gum disease.
Consistent dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for early detection and removal of plaque and tartar buildup. Addressing teeth grinding (bruxism) often involves wearing a custom-fitted night guard to alleviate pressure. Orthodontic treatment can correct misaligned teeth and bite problems that contribute to recession.
Quitting tobacco use improves gum health, as smoking and chewing tobacco hinder blood flow and healing. Maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports overall oral health, providing vitamins and minerals for strong gums and bones. Avoiding oral piercings, or ensuring proper placement and hygiene if you have them, minimizes irritation and gum damage.