Can You Reverse Receding Gums?

Gum recession — those words that seriously keep you up at night. It might be because you are worried it will happen to you, or it already has, and you are literally feeling the pain. It’s one of those sneaky dental issues that creep up on many people because there are so few signs and symptoms early in the disease. So, here’s the BIG question: Can you reverse receding gums? Let’s see what our Marconi Dental Group staff has to say about it.

What’s the Deal with Receding Gums?

First off, what are we even talking about when we say “receding gums”? Basically, this condition happens when your gum tissue starts pulling back from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth or, yikes, even the root. This can lead to sensitivity to hot and cold and make your teeth look longer than you’d like. Not exactly a winning combo!

What Causes Gums to Recede?

Before we jump into solutions, let’s talk about what causes this pesky problem in the first place. Here are some common culprits:

Shoddy Oral Hygiene

Not brushing and flossing properly can lead to plaque buildup. This gunk can turn into tartar, which can cause your gums to start receding.

Brushing Like a Maniac

Alternatively, scrubbing your teeth like you’re cleaning grout isn’t doing you any favors either. Over-brushing can wear away your gum tissue faster than you can say “soft-bristle toothbrush.”

Gum Disease

Periodontal diseases, like gingivitis and periodontitis, are major offenders when it comes to gum recession. These infections can damage the gum tissue and the bones holding your teeth in place.

Genetics

Sometimes, no matter how well you brush and floss, you might still end up with receding gums. Blame it on your genes.

Other Factors

Things like smoking, grinding your teeth, and even having crooked teeth can contribute to your gums pulling a disappearing act.

Can You Fix Receding Gums?

Now for the big question: Can you fix receding gums? The short answer is yes…but it depends on how bad the recession is and what’s causing it.

Amping Up Your Oral Hygiene Game

One of the easiest ways to help prevent and sometimes even reverse receding gums is by getting serious about your oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily. This helps get rid of plaque and tartar before they can wreak havoc.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar that you might have missed and spot any early signs of gum recession. Catching issues early can prevent them from becoming big problems.

Scaling and Root Planing

For more advanced cases, a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing might be needed. This involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar from the roots of your teeth.

Gum Grafts

In severe cases, surgical options like gum grafts might be recommended. This involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth and attaching it to the affected area. It can cover exposed roots and help prevent further recession.

Laser Therapy

Some dentists offer laser therapy as a minimally invasive way to treat gum disease and encourage gum regrowth. It’s a high-tech option worth discussing with your dentist.

Lifestyle Tweaks

Making some lifestyle changes can also help. If you smoke, quitting can significantly improve your gum health. Reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding grinding your teeth can also make a difference.

Prevention is Your Best Friend

While there are ways to fix receding gums, preventing the issue in the first place is always the best strategy. Maintain good oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly, and make healthy lifestyle choices to keep your gums in tip-top shape.

Reversing Receding Gums Is Possible With Marconi Dental

So, can you reverse receding gums? The answer is clear — it’s possible, especially if you catch it early with regular oral healthcare screenings with Marconi Dental. Our talented hygienists and dentists show you ways to boost your oral hygiene and provide professional cleanings to fix receding gums and keep them from returning.  

If you’re concerned about gum recession, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with our team to discuss your options and get personalized advice.