If you’ve noticed your teeth appearing longer or your gums looking red and swollen, you may be experiencing gum recession. This common condition, often caused by factors like gum disease, teeth grinding, or aggressive brushing, can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated. The big question on many people’s minds is: can receding gums actually grow back?
The Unfortunate Reality of Receding Gums
The simple answer is no, receding gums cannot grow back on their own. Once the soft gum tissue has pulled away from the teeth, exposing the more vulnerable tooth roots, it is not possible for this tissue to regenerate and return to its original position.
This is because the gums are a finite resource – they do not have the ability to regenerate or regrow once they have receded. While some initial research has shown promise in using thin membranes to stimulate gum regrowth, these treatments are still a long way from being approved for widespread use.
Treating Receding Gums
Although your receded gums cannot grow back naturally, there are treatments available that can help stop the problem from getting worse and even restore some of the lost gum tissue.
The most common approach is gum grafting, where a small amount of tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and transplanted to the receded area to cover the exposed tooth roots. Another option is a procedure called Emdogain, which uses enamel matrix proteins to stimulate the regrowth of gum and bone tissue without the need for a graft.
In addition to professional treatments, making changes to your oral hygiene routine can also help prevent further gum recession. This includes using a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing regularly, and avoiding aggressive brushing or grinding of the teeth.