Gum recession, also known as receding gums, is a common condition that affects many adults. It occurs when the gum tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth surface. This can make teeth appear longer and can lead to other oral health issues. When severe gum recession occurs, it can feel like the gums are “broken” or have receded significantly from their original position. This often leaves people wondering – do broken gums grow back?
What Causes Gum Recession?
There are several potential causes of gum recession:
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is the most common cause of gum recession. It is an inflammatory condition caused by a bacterial infection below the gum line. The bacteria present in plaque produce toxins that trigger an inflammatory response from the body. This leads to the breakdown of gum tissue and bone that support the teeth. As the disease progresses, the gums can recede significantly from the teeth.
Aggressive Brushing
Aggressive tooth brushing with excessive pressure can traumatize the gums over time. This can wear down the gum tissue and cause sensitivity and recession. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush and brushing horizontally can exacerbate this.
Genetics
Some people are simply more prone to gum recession due to inherited traits like thin gum tissue. This can make them more susceptible even with good oral hygiene.
Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for gum problems. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage gum tissues. Smokers tend to have more plaque and tartar buildup as well, which can accelerate receding gums.
Clenching and Grinding
Clenching or grinding the teeth can put excessive forces on the teeth and supporting gum tissue. This can gradually wear down the gums and cause recession. Using a nightguard is recommended to protect the teeth.
Poor Alignment
Misaligned teeth or uneven bite patterns can cause some areas of the gums to recede over time. Orthodontic treatment may be needed to correct the alignment and prevent further recession.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations in puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can increase gum sensitivity and recession in some women. Proper oral hygiene and checkups are important during these times.
Do Gums Grow Back After Receding?
The short answer is – sometimes. If caught early, mild gum recession can potentially be reversed. However, severe gum recession is difficult to fix completely. Here is an overview:
Mild Gum Recession
When gums are mildly receded but there is no loss of tissue or bone, it may be possible to help the gums regrow and reattach to the tooth. Procedures like gum grafting can be done to stimulate gum regrowth over exposed root surfaces. With proper oral hygiene at home, grafted tissue can reattach and remain stable.
Moderate Gum Recession
If the gums are receding and some bone loss is present, partial regrowth is possible. Gum grafting may be done to cover portions of exposed roots and prevent further recession. While some gains are possible, the gums may not grow back completely to their original position.
Severe Gum Recession
If significant bone loss accompanies the gum recession, gum regrowth is very limited. Once a substantial amount of supporting bone is lost, the gums have no foundation to regrow upon. Grafting and other regenerative procedures may cover exposed roots and improve appearance but cannot recreate lost gum tissue.
Treatment Options
While complete gum regrowth may not always be possible, treatments can improve gum recession and prevent it from worsening. Treatment options include:
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting involves taking tissue from the palate or another source and stitching it over the receded areas. This can cover exposed roots and provide greater tissue thickness. Over time, the grafted tissue integrates with the surrounding gums. There are several grafting techniques, such as connective tissue grafting and the pinhole surgical technique, to choose from.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
This treatment uses bone grafts and membranes to stimulate bone and gum regrowth. It helps regenerate bone in deficient areas, allowing gums to reattach and remain stable. Success depends on the amount of recession and bone loss present.
Bone Grafting
This places bone or bone stimulating material in areas of bone loss. It creates a more stable base for gum tissue reattachment and growth. The grafted bone integrates over time and reduces pocket depth.
Scaling and Root Planing
This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. Removing bacterial deposits stops disease progression and allows gums to heal and reattach where possible. Regular dental cleanings are needed afterward.
Occlusal Adjustment
Recontouring teeth or bite alignment may be done to correct uneven pressures on gum tissue. This helps stabilize areas of recession and reduces trauma to the gums during biting and chewing.
Nightguards
If clenching or grinding is contributing to gum recession, wearing a custom nightguard provides protection and prevents further damage. This allows gums to heal properly.
Prevention
While gum regrowth treatment is not always fully successful, preventive care is the best way to avoid receding gums in the first place. Steps for preventing gum recession include:
Proper brushing and flossing
Gently brush twice daily and floss once daily to remove plaque. Avoid aggressive scrubbing and use a soft-bristled brush.
Quit smoking
Smoking cessation can help reverse gum recession and improve healing ability.
Get regular dental cleanings
Professional cleanings and exams remove buildup not removed by daily brushing and flossing. Regular cleanings can catch early signs of gum recession.
Address bite issues
See a dentist about misaligned teeth, uneven bite, and nighttime grinding. These need to be corrected to prevent gum damage.
Manage health conditions
Keep medical issues like diabetes under control, as poorly managed conditions increase gum recession risk.
Eat a balanced diet
Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamins C and D to support gum health. Limit sugary or acidic foods that can damage enamel.
Use a gentle brushing technique
Avoid scrubbing, angling the toothbrush under the gum line, or horizontal brushing motions. All can irritate the gums.
See your dentist regularly
Get a comprehensive exam at least once a year to check for early signs of gum problems. Professional cleanings every 6 months are also important.
Outlook
Receding gums often get progressively worse over time without treatment. The sooner it is caught, the better the chances gum regrowth can occur with grafting or other therapy. For mild cases, it may be possible to reverse or limit gum recession. More advanced recession is harder to fix, but treatment can still improve aesthetics and prevent disease progression. While broken gums may not fully grow back, there are ways to help gums reattach and appear more intact. With diligent oral care both at home and in the dental office, gum recession can often be well controlled.
Conclusion
Gum recession ranges from mild to severe, depending on how much tissue and bone is lost. Mild cases may allow for some gum regrowth with grafting or other treatment. However, moderate to severe recession with significant bone loss cannot be completely reversed. The gums have a limited ability to regrow once substantial recession occurs. Still, treatments like gum grafting can improve gum coverage and appearance. While broken gums may not fully heal, there are ways to limit recession progression and enhance aesthetics. Prevention through good oral hygiene and regular dental visits offers the best protection against receding gums. With proper, timely therapy, it is sometimes possible to help gums reattach and regain a more intact appearance.