What Causes Gum Recession? How Is It Treated?

Gum Recession 

Gum recession is when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing the tooth root. Gum recession can occur due to hereditary gum diseases, as well as factors like poorly fitting fillings or tartar. To combat gum recession, any tartar buildup on the teeth must be thoroughly cleaned. While tartar can form on visible parts of the teeth, if left untreated, it can embed itself beneath the gum line, continuing to encroach towards the tooth root.

How Is Gum Recession Treated?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to reverse gum recession in patients who have experienced it. Receded gums do not grow back. Tartar and bacteria causing gum recession are scraped and cleaned from the gums and tooth roots. After cleaning the diseased gum tissue affected by bacteria and tartar, the expectation is that healthy gum tissue will reattach to the tooth and tooth root. Gum treatment is a long process. At the end of the process, the gum disease is considered treated. To prevent gum recession, you need to brush your teeth regularly. You can use dental floss to clean areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. You can also use mouthwash to aid in brushing.