How to Stop Receding Gums From Getting Worse

Introduction: Understanding Receding Gums

Receding gums, or gum recession, is a widespread dental concern that affects millions of people. This condition happens when the gum tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth gradually pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or even its root. As the gums recede, you may notice:

• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• A higher risk of tooth decay
• Gum inflammation
• Tooth loss (if left untreated)

Gum recession often develops slowly and can go unnoticed until it becomes more severe. Factors like poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and genetics all play a role. Recognizing the early signs of receding gums and taking action to prevent gum recession is key to protecting your oral health.

What Causes Gums to Recede?

Gum recession can be triggered by a variety of factors, many of which are preventable. Addressing these early on can help stop receding gums from worsening.

• Poor oral hygiene – Plaque and harmful bacteria build up along the gum line, causing gum inflammation and leading to gum recession.
• Gum disease – Also known as periodontal disease, this bacterial infection damages the gums and bone, resulting in receding gums and even tooth loss.
• Aggressive brushing – Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too forcefully can wear down gum tissue and worsen receding gums.
• Tobacco use – Smoking or chewing tobacco restricts blood flow to your gums, increasing the likelihood of gum recession.
• Genetics – Some people are more prone to gum disease and receding gums, even with good care.
• Hormonal changes – Shifts during pregnancy, menopause, or puberty can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to recession.
• Grinding or clenching – This puts excess pressure on teeth and gums, contributing to receding gums over time.

How to Stop Receding Gums from Getting Worse

Noticed your gums pulling back a bit? You’re not alone—and the good news is, there’s a lot you can do to help stop receding gums from getting worse. While gums won’t grow back on their own, early action can prevent more damage. Here’s how:

• Be gentle when you brush
  Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush and avoid scrubbing. Gentle brushing protects your gums from further recession.
• Don’t skip the floss
  Flossing removes plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline—helping to prevent gum recession.
• Use a good mouthwash
  An antimicrobial rinse helps reduce bacteria and calm gum inflammation, which plays a big role in receding gums.
• Cut out tobacco
  Smoking or chewing tobacco puts your gums at risk. Quitting helps stop receding gums and improves healing.
• Eat your vitamins
  Nutrients like vitamin C and calcium keep gums strong and more resilient against gum recession.
• Relax your jaw
  Grinding or clenching? A nightguard can help relieve pressure on your gums and prevent further gum recession.
• See your dentist regularly
  Routine checkups help catch problems early and allow for professional cleanings—key to helping stop receding gums from getting worse.

Treatment Options for Receding Gums

Treating receding gums depends on how advanced the gum recession is and what’s causing it. Options include:

• Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
  Removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline to help the gums reattach and heal.
• Antimicrobial Mouthwash
  Helps reduce harmful bacteria and calm gum inflammation in mild cases of gum recession.
• Lifestyle Changes
  Quitting tobacco, improving your brushing habits, and wearing a nightguard (if needed) can help prevent gum recession from getting worse.

For more advanced cases, surgical options are available and may be recommended by your dentist or gum specialist.

Surgical Solutions for Advanced Gum Recession

When receding gums are severe, surgical procedures may be needed to restore lost tissue and protect your teeth:

• Gum Grafting
  Healthy gum tissue (often from the roof of your mouth) is grafted to cover exposed roots and rebuild the gumline.
• Pocket Depth Reduction
  This procedure tightens loose gum tissue and removes bacteria from deep pockets to slow further gum recession.
• Regenerative Procedures
  Bone or tissue-stimulating proteins may be used to regenerate lost gum or bone tissue affected by gum recession.

When to See a Gum Specialist

If you’re doing everything right but still seeing signs of receding gums, it may be time to visit a gum specialist, also known as a periodontist. These professionals are trained to handle more complex cases of gum recession and can provide advanced treatments to preserve your oral health.

Gum Inflammation: A Warning Sign

Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are all signs of gum inflammation—and often the first indicator of developing gum recession. Catching and addressing inflammation early can help you stop receding gums from getting worse before they cause permanent damage.

Final Thoughts

Receding gums are more common than most people realize, but they’re also manageable—especially if you act early. Whether it’s switching to a softer toothbrush, quitting tobacco, or checking in with a gum specialist, small changes can make a big difference.

With the right care and regular dental checkups, you can stop receding gums from getting worse, protect your teeth, and keep your smile healthy for years to come.