Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

If you looked at your teeth recently and noticed your teeth seem to be appearing longer, it’s a common effect of receding gum lines. When gums suffer damages, such as because of gum disease, it is possible for this tissue to slowly pull back and expose more and more of the tooth, leading to a lot of dental issues like increased sensitivity.

Unfortunately, receding gums cannot grow back, so the damage is considered permanent. There are ways to stop receding gum lines and even restore your dental health. Keep reading to discover your options when you are dealing with receding gums.

Why Are Your Gums Pulling Back?

Gum recession can be caused by lots of different factors. The only way to know for sure why you are experiencing these symptoms is to see a specialist. In most cases, gum recession is caused by:

• Aggressive tooth brushing which impacts gum health;
• Improper oral health which can lead to plaque build-up and periodontitis over time;
• Severe tooth grinding;
• Smoking and improper diet;
• Genetics, etc.

The Signs of Receding Gums

It can be difficult to tell if your gums are receding. The changes happen very slowly, and by the time you notice the symptoms, the condition is likely already affecting the integrity of your oral health. It’s why you should see your Bowling Green dentist routinely to ensure both tooth and gum health is in order. Some common signs that your gums might be pulling back include:

• Teeth appearing longer
• Heightened sensitivity to heat and cold
• Mild bleeding
• Gum discoloration
• Tooth pain

How Are Receding Gums Treated?

The periodontal treatment plan needed to stop gums from receding generally depends on why this happened in the first place. For instance, if it’s a case of periodontitis, the dentist will first address the infection and prescribe antibiotics to stop the gums from receding further.

Then, you might require any of the following procedures, depending on your specific case and extent of the damage:

• Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line;
• Gum surgery to either properly clean the gum beneath the flap or add a tissue-stimulating protein or tissue to try and help the body restore gums;
• Gum grafts, in severe cases where the gums have receded a lot, and need a graft from your mouth surgically added to the gum tissue that is retracting.

Worried about Receding Gums? Precision Dental in Bowling Green Can Help

The best way to ensure your oral health needs are met is to see a dentist routinely for professional cleaning and check-ups. But, if you already notice your gums are receding, Precision Dental may be able to help you with specialized periodontal care.

To get started, book a consultation with Bryan Packard, DMD online, or call our Bowling Green practice at (270) 715-9214 to find out more about our services and how we can help.