Receding gums: causes, can they grow back, and treatment
Signs
- Teeth looking longer, or a notch you can feel near the gum line
- Sensitivity to cold on the exposed root. See sensitive teeth
- Darker triangles appearing between teeth
Common causes
- Gum disease destroying the bone and gum that support the teeth. See bleeding gums
- Brushing too hard or with a hard-bristled brush, especially side to side
- Thin gums, which some people are born with
- Tooth position: teeth that sit towards the cheek have thinner bone and gum over them; moving teeth during orthodontic treatment can also affect this
- Tobacco use, including smoking
- Lip or tongue piercings rubbing on the gum
Can receding gums grow back?
No. Once gum has receded, it does not regrow by itself, and no toothpaste or rinse can make it grow back. What you can do is stop it progressing, protect the exposed root, and in suitable cases have it surgically covered.
Stopping it getting worse
- Use a soft brush with gentle, small circular movements. An electric brush with a pressure sensor helps people who brush hard.
- Treat any gum disease with scaling and good daily cleaning, including between the teeth.
- Stop smoking.
- Have the recession measured so it can be monitored over time.
Treatment options
| Option | When it is used |
|---|---|
| Desensitising toothpaste or varnish | Sensitive exposed roots |
| Tooth-coloured filling over the root | Sensitivity, wear or a notch at the gum line |
| Gum graft surgery | Selected cases where recession is progressing, or for appearance; usually done by a periodontist (gum specialist) |
Your dentist will explain which options suit your situation and refer you to a specialist where appropriate. See general dentistry.
Frequently asked questions
Is receding gums in your 20s normal?
Some recession can occur at any age, often from hard brushing, thin gums or tooth position. It is worth having it measured and monitored, and adjusting brushing technique early.
Can I reverse gum recession naturally?
No home remedy regrows gum. Gentle brushing and treating gum disease can stop it progressing.
Is gum recession serious?
Mild recession from brushing is often stable. Recession from gum disease is more serious because the supporting bone is also being lost. A dental check tells the two apart.
Do receding gums cause tooth loss?
Recession alone rarely does. Advanced gum disease, which often comes with recession, is a common cause of tooth loss in adults.
Questions about your teeth?
Book a check-up. You will hear what we find, the options and the fee before anything is done.