Gum recession is a condition that affects many people and can have serious implications for oral health. But is it possible to reverse gum recession, or do you just have to live with it? Let’s take a closer look at what causes gum recession and what can be done to fix it.

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue around teeth starts to recede and pull away from the tooth itself. While this often happens naturally as people age, it can also be caused by overaggressive brushing or flossing, as well as periodontal disease. In any case, gum recession can lead to sensitivity and an increased risk of decay or infection, so getting treatment is important.

One way to treat gum recession is to undergo plastic surgery known as “grafting”. During this procedure, your dentist will create a flap of skin in your gums and then secure it with stitches after inserting a piece of healthy tissue from another area of the mouth or from donor tissue. The benefit of grafting is that it helps rebuild and protect the diseased area from future oral health concerns.

Another option for treating gum recession is using topical medications such as fluoride varnish or hydrogen peroxide gel. This medication helps to speed up the healing process, though they may not provide long-term protection against further damage from periodontal disease or other factors.

It may also be possible to reverse some aspects of gum recession with home remedies such as salt water rinses, aloe vera gel massage, tea tree oil application, green tea rinse, and vitamin C intake. However, these treatments likely won't replace professional care if you suspect you have advanced gum recession due to periodontal disease or other factors.

In short, while there are treatments available for reversing some aspects of gum recession—namely through grafting and/or topical medications—these treatments will only protect against further damage if they are supplemented by lifestyle changes such as proper brushing habits and regular dental checkups. Ultimately, prevention should be the primary focus when looking to avoid the complications associated with periodontal disease like gum recession: brush twice daily with an appropriate soft-bristled brush; floss regularly; eat a balanced diet; quit smoking; visit your dentist every six months for routine cleanings; and manage underlying conditions that might contribute to poor oral health like diabetes or cardiovascular diseases.

If you’re interested in having your gums checked, please contact our office.

Give us a call at (587) 317-9903 to learn more!