CAN RECEDING GUMS GROW BACK?
Gum recession can be caused by multiple factors. Poor oral hygiene, brushing too aggressively, age, medical conditions, dry mouth and genetics are all causes. When the gums recede, they have pulled away from the tooth structure and allowed the root to be exposed. This can cause sensitivity in the area, bone loss and even tooth loss if left untreated.
Unfortunately, gum tissue does not naturally regenerate but there are some ways to stop recession from getting worse. In this section, we will review some options.
Homeopathic Remedies
Some natural, home remedies include using aloe vera on the affected area, oil pulling and drinking green tea are among the most popular home treatments. While these at home treatments are indeed beneficial to your health, they cannot regenerate gum tissue.
Slowing the Process
Good oral hygiene is a huge key in preventing gum disease and recession. Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular cleanings will help your dentist monitor your oral health and diagnose recession if it occurs. Your hygienist will periodically take measurements of the pockets that occur naturally between your teeth and gums, looking for a healthy range of one to three millimeters. If pocket depth is more, they may suggest scaling and root planing to get the infection out of the gums.
Scaling and root planing involves a couple of trips for this deep cleaning. Typically, one half of your mouth will be cleaned at a time since this treatment requires that the area be numbed. The numbing allows your hygienist to clean plaque and tartar build up from not one the tooth surfaces, but the root surfaces as well. Your hygienist may place an antibiotic chip into particularly deep pockets to further the advantages of your treatment.
After receiving this treatment, it is important to heed to instructions of your dentist and hygienist to maintain the health of your mouth. Some steps you may be advised include:
- Using a soft-bristled brush to gently brush your teeth twice daily
- Flossing regularly before each brushing
- Receiving professional dental cleanings at least every six months, perhaps more frequently
Gum Surgery
If your gum recession is more severe than can be treated at your dental office, they may refer you to a Periodontist, a dentist specializing in care and treatment of the gums. Your Periodontist may advise surgery to reconstruct lost gum tissue. Recommended surgical treatments may include:
- Gum grafting: During this treatment, tissue is harvested from another area of the mouth, such as the roof, and surgically placed in the receding area. This will restore the appearance of recession and protect the previously exposed root from further damage.
- Flap surgery: This procedure involves a small incision made into the gum tissue and cleaning out the area even further than may have been reached during a scaling and root planing. After the area is cleaned of any plaque and bacteria, the gum is secured back in place.
- Bonding: This procedure uses gum colored resin to cover and protect exposed roots. The resin is colored to match your gums and works to protect the affected area.
While gum tissue does not naturally grow back, your dentist will work with you to determine the best course of action to slow and prevent any further damage caused by gum recession. Even if you have excellent oral home care, age and medical conditions can be an unavoidable factor causing gum recession. Speak with your dentist if you notice and recession or are experiencing any sensitivity at the gum line.
More information on Gum Recession : Fix Receding Gums