Do Receded Gums Eventually Grow Back?

If you don’t take great care of your oral health, you may notice your gums begin to recede from your teeth. Besides changing how your smile looks, you might not think it’s a significant issue. Heck, your gums will probably grow back after some time, so no big deal, right?

Unfortunately, receding gums are serious and should be treated as such. Learn why in this summary of the matter by your La Porte dentist!

What is Gum Recession?

Gum recession is when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls away, resulting in exposed tooth roots. This process results in longer-looking teeth. (Hence the famous phrase “long in the tooth.”)

Beyond affecting your appearance, your oral health is compromised when receding gums expose your teeth’s roots. Without gums to protect them, the roots become vulnerable to bacteria that cause tooth decay and infection. Furthermore, you become more likely to experience other symptoms, including:

• Swollen or sensitive gums
• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum bleeding
• Pain at the gum line

Is Gum Recession Reversible?

Once your gums have receded, they cannot return to their normal state on their own.

Dentists will usually use extensive gum grafts to correct the condition, placing new tissue in areas with gum loss. Even if your mouth has suffered from severe gum problems and gum recession, however, you can still prevent them from worsening. Plus, the earlier you notice the recession, the easier it is to get your mouth back in peak shape.

How to Prevent Gum Recession

As recommended by your dentist, brushing and flossing will help maintain your teeth and keep your gums in check.

While you’re at it, look for products with the American Dental Association seal. Such items are proven to strengthen oral health, including preventing gum recession. Flossing regularly and using fluoride-infused mouthwash can also do wonders.

Gum recession may look like a merely cosmetic worry at first, but its problems are more than skin-deep. Remember the relevant signs and practice good oral care to keep them from happening to you — you’ll keep your healthy smile much longer that way!

About the Practice

Region Dental is based in La Porte, IN. Headed by Drs. Daniel Berquist and Joseph Ornelas, who both earned their doctorates from Indiana University’s School of Dentistry, their team excels at personalized care. The practice offers a wide variety of services, ranging from general preventive care to advanced restorative and cosmetic solutions. Dr. Berquist and Dr. Ornelas also take continuing education very seriously and are always adding new techniques and tools to their repertoire. For more information or to schedule an appointment, the practice can be reached at their website or by phone at (219)-362-8980.