Can Receding Gums Grow Back?
When the gums pull away from the teeth, it results in receding gums. The highly sensitive root is exposed. This also creates small spaces that can accumulate plaque, worsening the gum recession. If the issue is left untreated, it can eventually cause serious issues such as bone tissue and tooth loss. There are various things that cause receding gums. This can include things such as aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, and even natural aging.
Restoration
Patients are often curious if the gums will grow back. Unlike other tissues found in the body, gum tissue does not regenerate on its own. Gums that are beginning to recede will not grow back without intervention. Below is a summary of treatment options and additional information related to receding gums.
Treatments
In some cases, patients want to pursue natural remedies for the treatment of receding gums. This may include things such as green tea, the use of aloe vera, and oil pulling. Some claim that these remedies help improve oral health as well. Patients should work with their dentist to determine if they want to use any of these treatment options.
In some cases, patients reported seeing improvements in their receding gums when using green tea. Green tea is reported to combat inflammation-causing bacteria. In addition, patients found that inflammation improved when they applied aloe vera below the gums. This also aided in reducing the amount of bacteria that accumulated below the gums. The data regarding these natural treatments is quite limited, and additional research is needed.
Data suggests that there are oral health benefits from the use of natural remedies. The studies did not find that these remedies were able to successfully regrow gum tissue. There are no treatments currently available that can grow back gum tissue in the case of recession. Patients can do certain things, however, to prevent the recession from becoming worse. There are procedures that can minimize the appearance of receding gums.
Prevention
When a patient has gum recession, they should contact their dentist to determine the cause. The dental professional will complete an examination to determine the severity of the issue. They can also review treatment options.
Deep Cleaning
In cases where bacteria have accumulated in the pockets between the teeth and the gums, the patient often needs to receive a deep cleaning. This is also called scaling and root planing and involves the dental professional scraping away tartar from the teeth and gum line. An ultrasonic device is typically used for the procedure, but a handheld device can also be used. Vibrations from the device loosen and remove plaque.
Antibacterial Gel
Another option is the application of a slow-release antibacterial gel. The gel is applied below the gum line. Patients may also be prescribed an antibiotic mouthwash. These treatments are often the first step in stopping receding gums. Bacteria removal aids in stopping or minimizing gum recession.
Good Oral Hygiene
It is critical for patients to practice and maintain good oral hygiene. Below is a summary of good oral hygiene practice:
- At least twice daily, teeth brushing
- Patients should use a soft-bristle toothbrush with gentle pressure
- Daily flossing between the teeth
- Regular visits to the dentist
Receding gums are extremely common. Even when patients practice good oral hygiene, they can still experience gum recession. In some cases, this is due to natural aging or genetics. While the gum tissue will not grow back, treatment options exist to prevent the issue from getting worse.
Contact the office today if you are concerned about receding gums or other oral health issues. We can complete an examination to determine the cause and create a treatment plan to resolve the issue.