Dental Clinic Networks
How do you treat gum recession?
7 min read
Gum recession treatment depends on how severe the recession is and what is causing it. In many cases, the goal is to stop it from getting worse, reduce tooth sensitivity, and protect exposed tooth roots. If the recession is advanced, a dentist or periodontist may recommend a surgical procedure to restore lost gum tissue or cover the roots.
What gum recession is
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or even the root surface. This can make teeth look longer and may lead to:
- Tooth sensitivity, especially to cold, heat, or sweet foods
- Higher risk of cavities on the root surfaces
- A rough or notched feeling near the gumline
- Gum inflammation or bleeding if gum disease is present
- Cosmetic concerns
Because gum recession usually does not grow back on its own, early treatment matters.
First step: find the cause
The best way to treat gum recession is to identify why it is happening. Common causes include:
- Periodontal disease: infection and inflammation that damage gum and bone support
- Aggressive brushing: using too much pressure or a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Poor oral hygiene: plaque buildup can inflame and damage the gums
- Teeth grinding or clenching: can place excess force on the gums and bone
- Misaligned teeth: can make certain areas more vulnerable
- Smoking or tobacco use: slows healing and worsens gum health
- Hormonal changes, genetics, or aging: can increase risk
- Piercings or trauma: can irritate gum tissue
A dentist will usually examine your gums, measure pocket depth, and may take X-rays to check for bone loss.
Non-surgical ways to treat gum recession
If the recession is mild or caused by irritation rather than advanced tissue loss, treatment may focus on stopping progression.
1. Improve brushing technique
If you brush too hard, your dentist may recommend:
- A soft-bristled toothbrush
- Gentle, circular brushing motions
- Not scrubbing side to side along the gumline
- Brushing for two minutes, twice a day
An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor can also help.
2. Use a desensitizing toothpaste
If exposed roots are sensitive, a desensitizing toothpaste can help block pain signals over time. Fluoride toothpaste may also help protect exposed root surfaces from decay.
3. Treat gum disease
If periodontal disease is the cause, treatment may include:
- Scaling and root planing: a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline
- Antibacterial rinses or medications in some cases
- Regular periodontal maintenance visits
Treating gum disease is essential because recession often continues if the infection is not controlled.
4. Address grinding or bite problems
If clenching or grinding is contributing to gum recession, your dentist may suggest:
- A night guard
- Orthodontic treatment if teeth are misaligned
- Bite adjustments in selected cases
5. Stop smoking or using tobacco
Quitting tobacco can significantly improve gum health and healing after treatment.
Surgical treatments for gum recession
If the gums have receded significantly, surgery may be the most effective option. These procedures are usually done by a periodontist.
Gum grafting
A gum graft adds tissue to the receded area. This is one of the most common treatments for gum recession. Types include:
- Connective tissue graft: tissue is taken from under the roof of the mouth and placed over the exposed root
- Free gingival graft: a small piece of tissue is taken from the palate and attached to the gum area
- Pedicle graft: nearby gum tissue is moved to cover the recession if enough healthy gum tissue is available
Gum grafting can reduce sensitivity, protect the root, and improve appearance.
Pinhole surgical technique
In some cases, a dentist may use a minimally invasive method called the pinhole surgical technique. Small openings are made in the gum tissue, and special instruments are used to reposition the gums over the exposed root. This may involve less discomfort and quicker healing than traditional grafting, but it is not appropriate for everyone.
Regenerative procedures
If gum recession is linked to bone loss from periodontal disease, your periodontist may recommend treatments that help regenerate supporting tissues in certain areas. These may include:
- Bone grafting
- Tissue-regenerative materials
- Surgical pocket reduction procedures
Not every case of recession is suitable for regeneration, so your dentist will determine what is realistic.
What treatment can and cannot do
It helps to understand the limits of gum recession treatment:
Treatment can:
- Stop or slow further recession
- Reduce tooth sensitivity
- Protect exposed roots from decay
- Improve gum contour and appearance
- Improve long-term oral health
Treatment usually cannot:
- Fully regrow lost gum tissue without surgery
- Reverse severe bone loss on its own
- Fix recession if the cause remains untreated
In other words, the best results come from combining professional treatment with good daily habits.
Home care after treatment
After gum recession treatment, your dentist may recommend:
- Brushing gently with a soft brush
- Flossing carefully once a day
- Avoiding very hot, cold, or acidic foods if sensitivity is present
- Using a prescribed rinse or gel if instructed
- Keeping follow-up appointments
- Avoiding smoking during healing
If you had gum surgery, your provider may also give specific instructions about eating, rinsing, and activity during recovery.
How to prevent gum recession from getting worse
Prevention is a major part of treatment. To lower the risk of worsening gum recession:
- Brush gently twice daily
- Floss or use interdental cleaners daily
- Visit the dentist regularly for cleanings
- Treat gum disease early
- Replace a hard toothbrush with a soft one
- Manage grinding with a night guard if needed
- Avoid tobacco
- Do not ignore bleeding gums or persistent sensitivity
When to see a dentist
Make an appointment if you notice:
- Teeth looking longer
- New sensitivity
- Notches near the gumline
- Bleeding, swelling, or bad breath that does not improve
- Loose teeth
- Rapidly worsening recession
If the recession is painful or comes with swelling or pus, see a dentist promptly, since infection may be present.
Can gum recession be reversed naturally?
No reliable home remedy can truly reverse gum recession. Good oral hygiene can help prevent it from getting worse, but lost gum tissue typically does not regrow without professional treatment. Be cautious of products or claims that promise to “grow back” gums without evidence.
Frequently asked questions
How do you treat gum recession at home?
At home, you can slow progression by using a soft toothbrush, brushing gently, flossing daily, and using desensitizing toothpaste. But home care alone usually does not restore lost gum tissue.
Is gum graft surgery painful?
Most patients say it is manageable with local anesthesia and aftercare instructions. Some soreness and swelling are normal for a few days after surgery.
Does gum recession always mean gum disease?
No. Gum disease is a common cause, but brushing too hard, grinding, genetics, and misalignment can also contribute.
Can sensitivity from gum recession go away?
Yes, sometimes. Desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, and covering the exposed root with grafting can help a lot.
Bottom line
The best way to treat gum recession is to address the cause early, protect the exposed root, and restore gum tissue when needed. Mild cases may improve with better oral hygiene and treatment of the underlying problem, while more severe recession often needs gum grafting or another periodontal procedure. If you notice your gums pulling back, a dentist can help you choose the right treatment before the problem gets worse.