What Can I Do About Receding Gums?

health wellness

Although receding gums are typically a normal part of the aging process, many people may notice them much earlier than usual. Gums may recede due to genetics but they may also be caused by harsh brushing, or "toothbrush abrasion," as well as periodontal or gum disease. Sometimes receding gums can be identified at first glance, but they may be detected by feeling the top of the teeth at the gum line. If the tooth feels notched at the gum line, then the gums are likely receding, thus hastening the decay of healthy teeth.

Receding gums may also be caused by teeth that are misaligned, or by excessive plaque build-up at the gum line. Misaligned teeth can be addressed by an orthodontist through the application of braces or other treatments. Regular cleanings to remove plaque build up as well as treatments for possible periodontal disease should be undertaken where appropriate.

For those with severely receded gums, a graft from another part of the mouth may be the only option for treatment. For others with healthy teeth and gums, there are currently two methods for the treatment of receding gums. In one treatment, the dentist drills holes in the teeth and then fills them with a material that helps keep the gums from receding further. This is perhaps the most commonly used method by dentists in the United States.

The second, and newer method for the treatment of receding gums has not yet been approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Instead of drilling holes in the teeth, the smooth surface of the tooth is roughened with a dental drill. A light coating of adhesive or filling material is then applied to the tooth and allowed to dry slightly. After this step, the teeth are “cured” by exposing them to a special blue light at a high intensity. This is followed with another layer of adhesive material.

Treating receding gums is important, not only for comfort, but also to preserve the health of your teeth. When gums recede, the exposed portion of the tooth is much more sensitive, causing discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and liquids. It can also lead to greater risk of tooth decay and other oral conditions such as a poor bite, sore jaw, periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Although some people are predisposed to receding gums due to heredity, prematurely receding gums may be prevented with proper oral hygiene — daily brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist. Many dentists will advise patients to focus on proper flossing, saying that it is even more important than brushing alone. For those who suffer receding gums due to overly exuberant brushing, consider switching to a softer bristled toothbrush and ask your dental hygienist for tips to improve your technique.

Some may choose to opt for herbal or homeopathic solutions. Be sure to do your own research — herbal and homeopathic remedies aren't regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and it's beneficial to be aware of any side effects or situations where the remedy may be contraindicated.

Those who have minor or serious gum disease, particularly those with accompanying receding gums, should be examined by their dentist on a regular basis to check for pockets in the gum as well as bone loss. Prevention, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment will all help in avoiding loss of teeth and receding gums.

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New: Discuss this Article

Posted by: anon427
I've successfully treated my gums for years. I use a handheld gum stimulator (available from a dentist), hydrogen peroxide and golden seal powder. After brushing and flossing, I put a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide in my mouth (being careful not to swallow it!). While the hydrogen peroxide is bubbling on my gums, I slowly drag the stimulator's rubber tip across my gums, especially in the narrow spaces between the gum and each tooth. After spitting and rinsing, I use a finger to apply a little golden seal powder to the gums, rubbing it in. Golden seal tastes bitter and can upset the stomach, so I try not to swallow any. I then go to bed and sleep with the golden seal in my mouth. The next morning, I rinse and brush, and my gums feel better. I hope this helps someone!
Editor's reply: That's great advice! Thanks so much for sharing that!
Posted by: anon4333
How does the golden seal help? And the hydrogen peroxide? I really need help with my receding gums. They are so painful and I don't have dental insurance right now! Please help!
Posted by: anon5016
I have recently noticed that part of my lower gum has receded quite dramatically in a short period of time. I visited my dentist who took an x-ray and he wasn't at all worried about it, saying there was no inflammation and the bone around the tooth was healthy. In spite of all that I still feel concerned as the tooth by which the gum has receded is misaligned (inclining inwards) even after having worn braces for 18 months. It was the only tooth that didn't move much with the brace. I still have to wear retainers as I am in my 30's (I notice the teeth try to shift back if I don't). Could it be that the retainers are irritating the gum and causing it to recede? What advice (other than thorough oral hygiene, which I do already) could you offer me as I don't want the problem to get any worse or affect any other part of the gum.

Many thanks

Posted by: somerset
In parts of the Mediterranean, where sage grows in the wild, the folk remedy for healthy gums is rubbing sage leaf over the gums. Supposedly that keeps them healthy.
Posted by: anon7040
very useful article
Posted by: anon7813
A few months ago I had my five old amalgam fillings replaced with white fillings. Two of them were very sensitive after replacement and I've had them both re-done again. The one is now okay but one of them is still feeling really sensitive when I eat and I am even in discomfort at other times. Other than going through the whole procedure yet again is there something I can use to ease the sensitivity? (I am already using a sensitive toothpaste and rub some directly on the filling at night before going to bed) I have even considered going back to an amalgam filling as I never had any trouble with it. Does anyone please have any suggestions?
Posted by: anon7816
A few months ago I had my five old amalgam fillings replaced with white fillings. Two of them were very sensitive after replacement and I've had them both re-done again. The one is now okay but one of them is still feeling really sensitive when I eat and I am even in discomfort at other times. Other than going through the whole procedure yet again is there something I can use to ease the sensitivity? (I am already using a sensitive toothpaste and rub some directly on the filling at night before going to bed) I have even considered going back to an amalgam filling as I never had any trouble with it. Does anyone please have any suggestions?
Posted by: ProudMom
I'm 22 years old. I've had an oral piercing (tongue ring) for over 5 years and i've noticed my gum line has begun to recede on the bottom half due to the constant touching and irritation of the barbell on my gums. I've taken the tongue ring out since i've noticed the damage. I'm very worried and kind of scared because i've learned of all the things that can happen due to gum recession such as tooth loss. It's only a slight recession of my gum line on the back of my bottom front teeth. i was wondering, will my gums continue to recede even though the piercing is out? Is there anyway to fix the slight damage that has already be done, and am i at risk of bone and teeth damage even though the damage appears to me slight?

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