Receding Gums Treatment: Causes and Options

Receding gums do not usually grow back on their own, but treatment can stop recession getting worse and protect or cover the exposed root. That means finding and fixing the cause, professional cleaning, desensitising treatment, tooth-coloured bonding or, in some cases, a gum graft by a registered specialist periodontist. A check-up at Toothi London is £55.

Gum recession is when the gum pulls back from the tooth, exposing more of the tooth or part of its root. It often happens slowly, so many people only notice when a tooth looks longer, a notch appears near the gumline, or the tooth becomes sensitive to cold.

The exposed root surface is not covered by hard enamel, so it is more prone to sensitivity, wear and decay. Mild recession is very common in adults and is not always a problem, but it is worth having it checked and monitored.

• ✓  Gum disease (periodontitis). Inflammation can destroy the bone and tissue that support the teeth, and the gum follows the bone down.
• ✓  Brushing too hard. Scrubbing with a hard brush can wear the gum and root away over time.
• ✓  Thin gums. Some people naturally have thin gum tissue or teeth positioned towards the outside of the jawbone, which makes recession more likely.
• ✓  Teeth grinding and clenching. Heavy forces on the teeth may contribute, especially alongside other causes.
• ✓  Smoking and tobacco. These increase the risk of gum disease and recession.
• ✓  Orthodontic tooth movement, lip or tongue piercings and ill-fitting dentures. These can all contribute in some people.

Usually there is more than one factor. Working out which apply to you is the first step, because treatment works best when the cause is controlled.

In most cases, no. Once gum tissue has receded it does not typically regrow by itself, and no toothpaste, mouthwash or home remedy has been shown to reliably regrow lost gum. If the gums are swollen from inflammation, they may tighten and look slightly different once they are healthy, but true recession generally stays.

The good news is that recession can usually be slowed or stopped, and the exposed root can be protected. In suitable cases, a gum graft carried out by a registered specialist periodontist may cover some or all of the exposed root.

Treatment depends on the cause, how much recession there is and whether it is causing problems. Your dentist will usually recommend a combination of:

If gum disease is involved, see our gum disease treatment page.

Yes, for the right person. Composite bonding uses tooth-coloured resin to build up the tooth surface. Over a receding gum it can cover an exposed, sensitive root surface, repair wear notches and reduce dark triangles between teeth, so the smile looks more even.

Bonding does not regrow gum and it does not treat gum disease, so the gums need to be healthy and stable first. It may need maintenance or replacing over the years. Read more on our composite bonding for receding gums page.

Book an appointment if you notice your teeth looking longer, new sensitivity to cold or sweet things, notches near the gumline, bleeding or swollen gums, or teeth that feel loose or have moved. Recession is easier to manage when it is found early.

Most dental problems can wait for a normal appointment, but some need emergency medical help. Call 999 or go to A&E if you have:

• ✓  Swelling that is spreading across your face, jaw or neck.
• ✓  Swelling that affects your breathing, swallowing or eye – including an eye that is closing up.
• ✓  A high temperature alongside tooth pain or swelling, or you feel generally very unwell.
• ✓  A significant injury to the face, mouth or teeth such as after a fall, sports injury or accident.

If your dental practice is closed and the problem can’t wait, call NHS 111 for advice. For pain while you wait, take your usual painkiller, following the packet instructions; ask a pharmacist if unsure. If you are a Toothi patient or live locally, call 020 3148 2444 as early as you can and we’ll find you the soonest appointment. Our guide to dental emergencies when your clinic is closed explains your options.

At Toothi London in Edgware, we begin with a check-up to find the cause of your recession and plan the right care.

Our full list is on our fees page. You can also read about our hygiene appointments. We are open seven days.