If you’ve noticed that your teeth appear larger than before, it might not be your imagination. While your teeth themselves haven’t changed size, your gums may be receding, a common indicator of gum disease. In fact, over 70% of adults over 65 experience gum disease, often accompanied by gum recession around at least one tooth. This condition isn’t exclusive to older adults; younger individuals aged 30 and up can also be affected.
If you’re facing this issue, you might be curious about restoring your smile and whether gums can regrow naturally or if treatment is necessary. Discover what causes gum recession and explore treatment options available to address this condition.
Will Your Gums Grow Back?
Once your gums have receded from your teeth, they won’t regenerate or grow back naturally. While research has explored methods like placing a thin membrane between the affected tooth and gum, these treatments are still undergoing trials and not widely available. Although your gums won’t regrow on their own, you can prevent the condition from worsening and potentially avoid surgical interventions.
Why Do Your Gums Recede?
Taking care of your gums is crucial for maintaining overall oral health. While gum disease is often associated with receding gums, there are various reasons why gums may pull away from teeth:
- Crowded teeth: If your permanent teeth emerge in a crowded arrangement, there may not be enough gum tissue to cover all the teeth properly.
- Genetics: Some individuals naturally have thin and fragile gums due to genetic factors.
- Aggressive toothbrushing: Brushing too vigorously with a hard-bristled brush can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Tobacco use: Using tobacco products, whether chewing tobacco, cigars, or cigarettes, can contribute to gum recession and other oral health issues.
- Gingivitis: This mild form of gum disease causes inflammation and can lead to gum recession if left untreated.
- Periodontitis: Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that damages the bones and tissues supporting the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
- Aging: As people age, the risk of developing gum disease increases. Over 70% of adults aged 65 and older in the United States have some form of gum disease.
Understanding these factors can help you take proactive steps to prevent gum recession and maintain healthy gums and teeth throughout your life.
Treating Recessed Gums
If you’re concerned about recessed gums, it’s essential to consult your dentist for an evaluation. Using a periodontal probe, a dental professional can assess the extent of gum recession and determine the underlying cause.
Treatment options for recessed gums vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition:
- Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Dental Fillings or Bonding: In mild cases, your dentist may use tooth-colored fillings or bonding to camouflage areas of gum recession, improving aesthetics and comfort.
- Surgical Treatments:
- Periodontal Pocket Procedures: When there’s a gap or “pocket” between the tooth and gum due to recession, bacteria can accumulate, leading to further issues. Surgical procedures involve removing damaged tissue and smoothing the underlying bone to facilitate gum tissue reattachment.
- Gum Grafts: This procedure aims to cover exposed tooth roots, prevent additional bone loss, and reduce gum recession. Gum tissue is typically harvested from the palate (roof of the mouth) and placed over the affected area. Different techniques can be discussed with your surgeon to determine the most suitable approach for your specific needs.
Seeking timely treatment can help prevent complications associated with gum recession and restore oral health effectively.
Preventing Recessed Gums
To maintain healthy gums and prevent recession, it’s crucial to follow proper oral care practices. Here are some tips to consider:
- Consult with your dentist: Discuss your oral hygiene habits with your dentist to ensure they are suitable for preventing gum recession. They can provide guidance on proper brushing techniques and recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your gums.
- Floss regularly: Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, reducing the risk of gum disease that can lead to recession.
- Brush effectively: Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day to remove plaque buildup. Consider using a toothpaste formulated to address gum sensitivity or recession, such as Sensodyne Sensitivity & Gum Whitening Toothpaste, if you experience sensitivity or gum-related issues.
By practicing these habits and maintaining regular dental check-ups, you can help protect your gums and maintain a healthy smile.
Source:
- University of Pennsylvania Penn Dental. “How To Fix Receding Gums: 4 Top Options.
- Oral Health Foundation. “Promising new treatment could regenerate gum tissue and prevent tooth loss.”
- Journal of the American Dental Association. “Gingival recession: Causes and treatment.”
- Cleveland Clinic. “Gum Recession.”
- American Academy of Periodontology. “Gum Disease Information.”
- American Academy of Periodontology. “Surgical Procedures.”
- American Academy of Periodontology. “Gum Disease Risk Factors.”