This article outlines the various treatments for receding gums. We also provide tips on how to slow and stop its progression.
Can receding gums grow back? What to know
Receding gums cannot grow back. However, oral hygiene changes can stop gum recession, and some treatments can reconstruct gum tissue.
Healthy gums fit snugly around the visible part, or the crown, of the teeth. Receding gums is when the gums pull back from the teeth, exposing each tooth and its roots further. Healthcare professionals refer to it as a gingival recession, a periodontal disease. Other types of periodontal disease include gingivitis and periodontitis.
This article outlines the various treatments for receding gums. We also provide tips on how to slow and stop its progression.
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Several different factors can cause the gums to recede, including:
- periodontal disease
- traumatic brushing
- teeth grinding and clenching
- aging
- injury
- smoking
Periodontal disease
The periodontium is the supporting structure surrounding each tooth that includes:
- gums
- alveolar bone
- ligaments
- cementum, the hard tissue that allows the periodontal ligament to attach to a tooth
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, refers to the infection and inflammation of the gums and the upper structures in the mouth.
This inflammation occurs due to an accumulation of bacterial deposits called plaque.
Factors that may cause or contribute to periodontal disease include:
- oral hygiene issues
- crooked teeth
- damaged or faulty fillings
- bridges or partial dentures that no longer fit
- a genetic predisposition
- hormonal changes due to pregnancy or oral contraceptives
- medications that cause dry mouth
- specific disorders such as Down syndrome and Crohn’s disease
- stress
- smoking or the use of any tobacco product
- diabetes
- advanced age
There are two stages of periodontal disease. First, gingivitis causes gum redness and swelling — without treatment, there may also be bleeding that may lead to periodontitis. During periodontitis, the later stage of periodontal disease, there are four total stages of severity.
In periodontitis, the gum and connective tissues pull away, and a pocket forms between the tooth and gum that can collect bacteria. Over time, the bacteria cause further inflammation.
If the gums recede too much, it may result in bone loss, which can cause teeth to loosen or fall out.
Forceful or incorrect brushing
Regular brushing is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. However, using an incorrect brushing technique could contribute to receding gums.
The gingival margin is the part of the gum that comes into contact with the tooth’s crown. Brushing incorrectly or too hard can damage this area, which may trigger gum inflammation and recession.
Brushing factors that can trigger gum recession include:
- applying too much pressure
- using a hard- or medium-bristled toothbrush
- brushing the teeth in a broad, horizontal motion
Teeth grinding and clenching
Some people grind their top and bottom teeth together while sleeping.
The motion of teeth grinding puts intense pressure on the gums, which can cause them to recede over time.
Teeth grinding can also cause teeth to become loose in their sockets. Additionally, grinding creates deep pockets between the tooth and the gum, where bacteria can collect. These bacteria trigger gum inflammation and can make gum recession worse.
Aging
A literature review found that the body’s natural aging process causes receding gums. As the years pass, the alveolar bone and soft tissue experience damage due to repeated exposure to bacteria and other agents.
Injury
Sustaining direct trauma to the gum tissue can cause the gums to recede in that area. Examples of such injuries include the following:
- during a fall or other accident
- during dental procedures
- wearing ill-fitting partial dentures
- playing contact sports
Smoking
According to the National Institute of Aging , there is a link between smoking and receding gums. For example, the previous literature review also found people who smoke have are twice as likely to have receding gums than nonsmokers.
Can gums grow back?
The gums cannot grow back naturally. However, further recession of the gums is preventable, and surgery can restore some tissue.
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