Reviewed by Dan Thousand, DDS, MSD
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Reading time: three minutes
If you have noticed that a tooth looks longer or feels more sensitive near the gumline, you may wonder whether the missing tissue will eventually return. The gums can recover from inflammation, but they cannot replace tissue lost through recession. Treatment instead focuses on preventing further changes and protecting the exposed root.
With two convenient locations in Aurora and Centennial, Periodontal Associates provides comprehensive periodontal and implant care to patients throughout the Denver metro area.
Table of Contents
Why Gum Tissue Does Not Grow Back
Once gum tissue has receded, it does not grow back on its own. The gums can heal when irritation or inflammation is treated, but they will not grow back over an exposed tooth root.
Treatment can help keep the recession from getting worse. If the root needs additional coverage, gum grafting can add tissue to rebuild the gumline.
Addressing the Cause of Recession
Preventing further recession begins with understanding why the gumline changed. Recession may be related to gum disease, naturally thin tissue, tooth position, excessive brushing pressure, teeth grinding or tobacco use. More than one factor may affect the same area.
Our article about what causes gum recession and how it is treated provides a more detailed explanation of these factors.
Addressing the cause may help stabilize the gumline, but it will not replace the missing tissue. Depending on the cause, care may involve changing your brushing technique, managing teeth grinding or treating gum inflammation.
What Treatment Can Do for Receding Gums
Not every area of recession needs surgery. Treatment depends on whether the gumline is continuing to recede, how much tissue remains and whether the exposed root is sensitive or vulnerable to damage.
At Periodontal Associates, Dr. Heller, Dr. Beckman, Dr. Thousand and Dr. Brett evaluate the gum tissue, exposed root, tooth position and supporting bone before recommending care.
A stable area with enough healthy tissue may only need to be monitored. Desensitizing products may make an exposed root more comfortable, while periodontal therapy can control inflammation caused by gum disease. These measures can improve the health and comfort of the area, but they will not make the missing gum tissue grow back.
Rebuilding the Gumline With Gum Grafting
When an exposed root needs more coverage or the remaining gum tissue is too thin, gum grafting may be recommended. Gum grafting adds tissue to rebuild and strengthen the gumline.
Depending on the treatment plan, the tissue may be taken from the roof of the mouth or obtained from a donor source. The graft is placed around the affected tooth to increase tissue thickness and, when possible, cover the exposed root.
Complete root coverage may not be possible in every case. The expected result depends on the extent of the recession, the position of the tooth and the condition of the supporting tissues. Even when the entire root cannot be covered, gum grafting may provide more protection and create a stronger, more stable gumline.
Periodontal Care for Receding Gums
If you have noticed an exposed root, sensitivity or a change in your gumline, Periodontal Associates can evaluate the area and explain whether it should be monitored or treated.
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Aurora, call (303) 755-4500. To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Centennial, call (303) 795-5700
FAQ
Can receding gums be reversed?
Receding gums cannot be reversed naturally because lost gum tissue does not grow back on its own. Treatment can help stop further recession, and gum grafting may restore coverage over exposed tooth roots.
Can brushing too hard cause receding gums?
Brushing with too much pressure or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can gradually damage the gumline, particularly when the gum tissue is naturally thin. A soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle technique can help protect the gums.
When is it too late for gum grafting?
It is rarely too late to ask about gum grafting. Whether the procedure is appropriate depends on the health of the tooth, the amount of remaining bone support and the severity of the recession. A periodontist can evaluate the area and explain the available options.
