Can Receded Gums Grow Back?

When you think of receding gums, you might associate the condition with an older crowd, but studies have shown that it can affect younger people too, and not just those with gum disease. One of the first things people want to know when they are told that their gums are receding is whether or not the tissue will grow back. Unfortunately, the answer is no. There is good news though! Even though gum tissue does not regenerate once it has receded, there are plenty of ways to avoid it and slow the process. Keep reading to learn some of the causes of gum recession and how you can deflect it.

What Causes Gum Recession, and How Can You Avoid It?

There are more causes of gum recession than periodontal disease. While some of these may be less within your control, others are absolutely avoidable:

Periodontal Disease

Gum disease comes with many symptoms, but one of the most common is gum recession. Bacteria that enter the gums through their soft tissues can cause severe swelling and pain. Over time, the gums will begin to recede because the tissue will no longer be healthy. Brushing and flossing your teeth and gums on a daily basis is the best way to remove bacteria and keep them in good condition.

Genetics

Like any other illness, some people will be at a higher risk of developing receding gums than others simply because of their genetics. If your parents or grandparents struggled with this condition, it is very important to communicate this to your dentist so that they can provide tips and treatment to help you avoid early-onset or slow the process.

Brushing Too Hard

Unlike scrubbing a dishpan or bathtub, the more pressure you put on your teeth when brushing does not mean that they are getting any cleaner. In addition to causing wear and tear on your enamel, it can also injure the soft tissues of your gums, causing them to recede and become more vulnerable to infection.

Hormones

If you’re a female, then you know that hormones tend to do very strange things to your body depending on your stage in life. Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are all milestone moments in a woman’s life when her hormones can tend to get out of whack. That’s why it’s important to pay close attention to how your body is responding to the different effects of hormones and make your dentist aware if you notice any changes to your gum health.

Tobacco

You probably already know that smoking isn’t good for your overall health, but did you also know that tobacco use is one of the leading causes of gum disease? The chemicals in tobacco products can lead to bacteria-infested gums, which eventually can develop into a more serious periodontal condition.

Diabetes

Another cause of gum recession that is uncontrollable is diabetes. For those who suffer from this condition, there is plenty of treatment available, but it’s important to know if you are at a higher risk for gum recession due to being diabetic so that your dentist knows how to help you best care for your smile.

Gum recession is a serious condition that should not be ignored. If you think you may be experiencing it, be sure to set up an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so that they can examine your unique situation and help you start treatment.

About the Author

When it comes to treating gum disease, you won’t find a better dentist than Mark D. Medaugh. He is passionate about helping each of his patients protect their smiles and keep their teeth and gums as healthy as possible. He has years of experience and education under his belt which helps him to provide the highest quality of treatment. Do you think you may be experiencing gum recession? You can schedule an appointment online or call (413) 323-4335.