Can Receding Gums Grow Back?
Gum recession is a condition in which the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth and exposes more root surface. Sensitivity, changes within the appearance of your smile, and an increased risk of tooth decay are able to occur. Once gum tissue has receded, it is natural for one to wonder about some things. Will it grow back? Knowing how gum tissue responds means you know what to expect and whether you need to seek treatment or not.
Receding gums are irreversible. Once they start to move further up the tooth, they will remain there or recede further. Unlike other tissues in the body, gum tissue doesn't naturally regenerate. The lost tissue, without professional dental intervention, does not return once it pulls away from the tooth. But you are not left without treatment options. Though home care cannot reverse recession, several ways exist to manage the effects and prevent it from worsening.
In cases of early detection, the dental provider can recommend some non-surgical strategies. Reducing irritation in order to preserve the remaining tissue is one of the most important factors to address. You may need to alter your brushing technique, switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush, or use desensitizing toothpaste if sensitivity is in fact an issue. The dentist may need you to address tobacco use and teeth grinding to support gum health and help slow further loss.
Your dentist may refer you to a gum specialist, a periodontist, for additional evaluation if your gum recession continues to progress despite conservative care. In some cases, a surgical approach is considered to give cover to the exposed roots and to restore a healthier gumline. A common procedure that is used for this purpose is gum grafting.
Gum grafting involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth or using donor tissue, then securing this tissue within the area of recession. The grafted tissue merges with the gum over time, so this merging protects the tooth root and even improves the look of your smile. This treatment does not trigger natural gum tissue to regrow. However, it does effectively rebuild coverage in those cases where it is needed.
Depending on both the severity and the location of the recession itself, a minimally intrusive technique may be the best treatment. The periodontist may be able to reposition existing tissue rather than adding new tissue. Your provider will measure attachment levels and pocket depth to see whether you're a good candidate. Also, the health of the surrounding bone will be assessed.
Even though gums will not return to their original length on their own, options exist to treat the damage for repair and to restore function with comfort. Treatment will not only manage the condition, but it will also prevent more serious problems. Early detection and a personalized care plan will help you lower the risks related to complications from recession.
If you have more questions about gum recession or how addressing it could work as a part of your treatment plan to achieve better dental health, make an appointment with the dentist to see if your gums are receding.