If you are experiencing a gum recession, then you may be wondering if your gums will grow back. Unfortunately, in most cases receding gums are permanent and can’t grow back. However, there are a few things that can be done to prevent further recession and protect your teeth from damage. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of gum recession, the symptoms of receding gums, and treatment options for receding gums.
Causes of Gum Recession
There are a few different things that can cause gum recession.
- One of the most common causes is brushing your teeth too hard. This can damage the gum tissue and cause it to recede from the tooth.
- Another common cause of gum recession is periodontal disease. This is a serious infection of the gums that can destroy the gum tissue and bone around the teeth. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. If this plaque and tartar is not removed, it can lead to gum recession.
- Poor oral hygiene can also cause gum recession. This can include not brushing your teeth regularly, not flossing, and not using mouthwash. These things can all lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which can then lead to gum recession.
- Genetics can also play a role in gum recession. If you have family members with receding gums, you may be more likely to experience it yourself.
- Trauma to gum tissue can occur from over-zealous brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. This can cause the gum tissue to pull away from your teeth, exposing the roots.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth can put too much pressure on the gums and teeth, causing gum recession.
- Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can contribute to gum recession because it puts pressure on the gums, making them more likely to pull away from your teeth.
Symptoms of Receding Gums
One of the most common symptoms of receding gums is tooth sensitivity. This can occur when your gums recede, exposing more of your tooth’s root. The root is covered with a thin layer of tissue called cementum, which is not as strong as your tooth’s enamel. This can make your teeth feel sensitive to hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks.
Another common symptom of receding gums is gingival bleeding. This can happen when you brush or floss your teeth. The gums may also bleed when you eat or drink, or when you use a toothpick.
Other symptoms of receding gums can include:
- Bad breath
- A change in the fit of your teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment options.
Treatment Options for Receding Gums
The first step in treating receding gums is to improve your oral hygiene. This can include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Your dentist can also recommend a toothpaste or mouthwash that is specifically designed to help with gum recession.
If your gum recession is caused by periodontal disease, you may need to see a periodontist for treatment. They can clean the tartar and plaque from your teeth and gums, and they can also prescribe medication to help with the infection.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat gum recession. This can include a gum graft, where healthy gum tissue is taken from another part of your mouth and grafted onto the affected area. Surgery can also be used to remove tartar and plaque from your teeth and gums.
If you are experiencing gum recession, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment options. By catching gum recession early, you can help prevent further damage to your gums and teeth.