Gum Recession: Will Your Gums Grow Back Afterward?

The longer you let gum disease go untreated, the more likely you are to suffer from gum recession – a condition where the gum tissue has worn away or pulled back, leaving the roots of the teeth visible. If your dentist finds signs of gum recession, one of the first things you’re likely to ask is, “Will the gums grow back on their own?” Here’s what you need to know to protect and restore your overall oral health.

What Exactly Happens When Your Gums Recede?

Healthy gums help keep your teeth in place, and they also act as a seal that prevents harmful organisms and substances from attacking the roots of the teeth. However, if the gums start to recede, the roots will be left vulnerable to the bacteria that can cause tooth decay. Over time, gum recession can significantly increase your risk for tooth loss.

Can the Gums Grow Back After Gum Recession?

Unfortunately, any gum tissue that was lost due to gum recession is gone for good; it will not grow back on its own. As such, if you notice signs of receding gums (such as teeth that look longer than they used to or increased tooth sensitivity), you should let your dentist know immediately. Once they’ve had a chance to examine your mouth, they can help you make a plan to restore your oral health and prevent the damage from getting worse.

How Can Gum Recession Be Prevented?

Since your gums won’t grow back after gum recession, the best thing you can do is avoid the condition altogether. Here are a few helpful tips for maintaining healthy gums:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day to get rid of the plaque that can contribute to gum disease. Be careful not to brush too hard, or you might start wearing your gums down by accident.
• Floss daily to remove food particles and bacteria from the spaces between your teeth that you can’t clean with your toothbrush.
• Reduce bacteria levels in your mouth by using mouthwash at least two times every day.
• Do not smoke or use tobacco products of any kind, as they are known risk factors for gum recession.
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings. If they find signs of gum disease in your mouth, they can treat it with scaling and root planing to protect your gum tissues from further harm.

Gum recession is a significant oral health issue that should be avoided whenever possible, especially since it can’t be reversed. If it does occur, reach out to your dentist and start exploring your available treatment options.

About the Practice

At Bethel Dental Clinic in Accra, our skilled dentists combine excellent customer service with state-of-the-art technology to create a complete dental experience for you and your entire family. For patients who are suffering from gum disease, we offer gentle scaling and root planing as well as soft tissue laser therapy. If you’re concerned about gum recession, you can schedule a consultation with us by visiting our website.