How to prevent gum recession

Why prevention matters

Cleveland Clinic says receding gums do not grow back and the condition cannot be cured, only managed, and that untreated recession can lead to bone loss, loose teeth and tooth loss. Healthline says gum tissue does not regenerate the way skin does. That makes preventing recession, and catching it early, the best approach. Cleveland Clinic says early detection gives the best outcome and that not all recession is preventable, especially with a genetic predisposition.

Brush thoroughly but gently

Brushing too hard is one of the causes Cleveland Clinic lists. Its prevention advice is to brush thoroughly twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The ADA recommends soft bristles because they minimize the risk of gum abrasion, ADA MouthHealthy says firmer bristles can harm gums and enamel and to brush just enough to clean plaque off your teeth, and Cleveland Clinic's brushing guide says to use gentle pressure at about a 45-degree angle to the gum line with short, overlapping strokes, and not to scrub. An electric brush with a pressure or timer feature can help if you tend to press hard.

Clean between your teeth and keep up cleanings

Cleveland Clinic advises flossing once a day, using antimicrobial mouthwash twice a day and keeping up with regular dental cleanings. Healthline suggests cleanings about every six months. Plaque and tartar build-up and gum disease are causes of recession, so removing them early protects the gums. NIDCR says tartar can only be removed by a professional cleaning.

Treat gum disease early

Cleveland Clinic lists gum disease as a cause of recession and says gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and good daily hygiene, while periodontitis is not curable but manageable. If your gums bleed or look red or swollen, see a dentist: NIDCR says early gum disease can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. Our gum disease guide covers the stages.

Avoid tobacco and other triggers

Cleveland Clinic lists smoking or chewing tobacco, trauma to the gums, misaligned teeth and lip or tongue piercings among the causes. NIDCR says smoking or tobacco use is the most significant risk factor for gum disease. Avoiding tobacco, taking care with piercings and asking about a bite or alignment problem can reduce the risk. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist whether a night guard would protect your teeth and gums.

How to treat gum recession

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Cleveland Clinic lists topical antibiotics, deep cleaning for gum disease, dental bonding to cover exposed roots, orthodontics to realign crooked teeth, and desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride varnish, with gum graft surgery as the most predictable and long-lasting option, usually by a periodontist, with most people back to normal in about two weeks. Healthline also lists laser treatment, flap surgery and the tunnel technique.

Can gum recession be reversed or healed at home?

No. Healthline says oil pulling, green tea and aloe vera did not make gum tissue regrow, though studies on reducing gum inflammation are limited and need more research. Home care can stop recession from getting worse, and cannot rebuild gum that has been lost. Our guide on how to fix receding gums covers treatment options and the ADA's view on oil pulling.

Questions to ask your dentist

If you are worried about your gums, a short list of questions makes the visit more useful.

• How much recession do I have, and has it changed since my last visit?
• Am I brushing too hard, and which brush should I use?
• Do I have gum disease, and do I need a deep cleaning?
• Could grinding, a bite problem or a piercing be contributing?
• Do I need to see a periodontist, and what would treatment involve?

Frequently asked questions