Back To Blog

Ultimate Guide To Receding Gums

Dr. Peter Doherty Profile Image

Last Reviewed 05 October 2021

Medically reviewed by Dr. Peter Doherty, Bachelor Dent. Sc. (Trinity College Dublin) 2003, MFDS (RCSI), PG Cert Implant Dentistry (Newcastle), Implant Dentist

Table of Contents

Are you concerned thay your gums might be receding? If your gums are red, inflamed or painful, we advise that you get them checked by your dentist. There are gum treatments available that can stop or even reverse gum recession if caught in time.

This post is going to explore some of the more freqently asked questions that we get about receding gums. 

What Are Receding Gums?

what causes gum recession Dr. Peter Doherty - 3Dental

What Causes Gum Recession? - Dr.Peter Doherty - Gum Surgery

Receding gums is a condition in which the gum covering your teeth is shrinking, and the tooth becomes more exposed. Later on, the root may also become exposed.

When this happens, pockets form between the teeth and the gum, providing the perfect environment for bacteria to accumulate. If you do not treat this condition in time, it can cause damage to the bone underneath, not just to the tooth itself, which can lead to tooth loss.

Causes Of Receding Gums

gum recession - 3Dental

The causes of receding gums are:

  • Gum disease
  • Brushing too hard
  • Thin gums
  • Poor oral health
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Grinding or clenching
  • Smoking
  • Genetic predisposition

Receding Gum Treatments

TreatmentProsCons
Medications such as antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwashWorks if you catch it very earlyIt is less important than brushing and flossing, and is mostly a preventative measure. It may not work for everyone.
Deep cleaningCan halt the progress of gum recession cases caused by bacteriaApprox 2 visits are required every 2-4 months
Desensitizing treatmentPainlessProvides temporary relief of sensitivity. However, it does not stop recession.
Gum graft surgerySuccessful in the majority of suitable casesMay require multiple visits. Not suitable for advanced cases of recession.

What Are The Symptoms Of Receding Gums?

how to prevent gum disease - 3Dental

These include:

  1. Bleeding gums
  2. Gum Inflammation or redness 
  3. Gums are sore to the touch
  4. Tooth sensitivity
  5. Bad breath
  6. Loose teeth
  7. Exposed tooth roots

Receding Gum Prevention

The best practice around preventing gum recession is:

ActionReason
Regular dental visitsThe dentist can identify early signs of gum disease and recommend treatment
Regular, gentle brushing (with a medium/soft toothbrush) and flossing between dental visitsPrevents the build-up of bacteria between the teeth and gums
Quit smokingNicotine restricts blood flow to the gums
Eat a well balanced and healthy dietA healthy body naturally fights gum disease
Do not brush too hardOver-brushing or brushing too hard can damage your gums and lead to gum recession

What Is The Best Mouth Rinse For Receding Gums?

prevent receding gums - 3Dental

Any mouthwash that includes the ingredient chlorhexidine can help with receding gums. It will not reverse it, but can slow its progression.

Most dentists would recommend Corsodyl 0.2% mouthwash for patients suffering from receding gums.

However, Corsodyl mouthwash may cause temporary discolouration of teeth and tongue, which can be prevented by not eating or drinking any dark coloured food after 1 hour of using the mouthwash.

How To Stop Receding Gums?

Visiting your dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups and dental cleanings is the best way to detect issues that could lead to receding gums. Receding gums respond to treatment well if you catch them in the early stages.

Identifying these early signs is one reason why it’s essential to attend your dental clinic for regular check-ups; twice a year in most cases.

What Are The Different Stages Of Receding Gums?

mouth rinse with brushes - 3Dental
  • Stage 1: Healthy gums
  • Stage 2: Gingivitis - An inflammation of the gums that can lead to *periodontitis (gum disease)
  • Stage 3: Early periodontitis - The gum starts to pull away from the tooth
  • Stage 4: Moderate periodontitis - Discomfort, loose teeth and bone loss
  • Stage 5: Advanced periodontitis - Multiple loose teeth, abscess (tooth extraction may be required if not treated in time)

*Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that causes gums to recede.

How Serious Are Receding Gums?

You should take gum recession seriously. It affects your overall health as well as your teeth. Periodontal disease not only causes tooth loss, the bacteria responsible for this disease can also enter your bloodstream and could lead to heart issues in the future.

How Do You Brush Receding Gums?

How to Prevent and Treat Gum Recession - 3Dental

How to Prevent and Treat Gum Recession - Dr.Peter Doherty - Gum Surgery

Always use a medium/soft toothbrush and make sure to be gentle. Brush your teeth and gums in small circular motions. Do not apply pressure while brushing.

Can Gum Tissue Grow Back?

Unfortunately, if you have the most severe gum disease, it cannot be reversed or grown back, but you can stop it from getting worse. In the early stages of gum disease, it is possible to reverse it successfully.

If it is too late for you to reverse receding gums, it may be possible to have a gum surgery performed.

Are You In Need Of A Dental Checkup?

Get in touch today

What Is The Best Approach To Receding Gums?

The best approach to receding gums is to monitor them and get them checked as soon as any signs appear, no matter how small.

Regular check-ups and dental cleanings with a hygienist, in addition to good oral hygiene, are necessary to prevent receding gums.

Taking care of your gums includes brushing and flossing at least two times a day.

If you have been diagnosed with receding gums or gum disease, special toothpaste or mouthwash will help with the longer-term treatment.

Conclusion

We hope you found this post informative!

If you feel like you would benefit from a dental check up to review the health of your gums, contact our DublinLimerick or Galway clinic today.

Recent Reviews

Jennifer Hannafin

“I have been going to 3Dental Limerick for nearly 4 years now and I couldn’t recommend them enough. Before going to 3Dental I had very over crowded teeth and I was always very self conscious about...”

Aine O'Neill

“I chipped my front tooth a little and was very worried about how it would look. Dr Paul O’Connell fixed it and it looks and feels perfect. I can’t believe how well it turned out: I am delighted...”

Fiona

“Went to Rosario for a scale and polish. She was so gentle but extremely effective and quick. And her manner is so relaxing. It was probably the most pleasant teeth cleaning I've ever had by a dental...”

Fiona and Marko Halovanić

“Great service, quick check in before and check out after the treatment at the reception desk. Had scale and polish just recently with their resident hygienist Laura and she is great at what she does....”

Caroline O'Donnell

“My 18 month old chipped his tooth, I called in a panic and was given an appointment straight away. We met Dr Bobby and he was so kind and reassuring. The receptionists were fantastic, even over the...”

Anthony Fa

“Ferghal is brilliant, got 2 veeners, 4 fillings and a chipped tooth done. Spent about 2k and now my teeth are perfect. Another place told me I needed 6 veneers. Ferghal will tell you what is needed...”

Richard Wilson

“I have recently had some work done at 3dental with the specialist Daniel Kim, and I could not recommend this practise and Daniel more! From the outset they were professional, and I had complete trust...”

Tom Buchanan

“I recently had a teeth whitening treatment along with some composite bonding and am absolutely delighted with the results, Dr Joanna done a fantastic job and I couldn’t recommend her enough, I only...”

Chris G

“Just got implant and crown fitting today. I was very impressed with the treatment. They have gone above and beyond to look after their patients. I wouldn't even know I have a crown. thank you guys”

Teodor Milković

“Just finished having tooth implant procedure, all i can say that Dr. Xavier and his assistant Moises did excellent job. Was impressed by there professionalism and meticulous approach.”

Kinga Byczkowska

“Just completed my implant treatment with Xavier & Moises, and have to say it was great decision. During all those months I have been taken care off very well. All treatment went without problems, I...”

Roisin Kelleher

“I had a really positive experience with Dentist Xavier & Moises in 3 Dental. I got an Implant for a problematic tooth. My new crown looks great and didn’t break the bank. Thank-you Xavier and Moises”

Bernie De Burca

“Started attending 3Dental Galway in 2022. My experience with the dentists and hygienist there were unbelievable. I had a bad experience with a previous dentist and it was a big decision for me to...”

Geraldine Flynn

“I recently had extensive implant work carried out by Dr Xavier Borras and am so delighted with the results. Throughout the process, Dr Borras was very patient and his attention to detail was...”

Mary Conway

“Better price for implant than other dental practices, streamlined professional practice and you feel your dealing with a competent professional with Dr Andrea Uribarri its great to smile again 😀”

Aine Daly

“I initially went for a consultation on getting an implant with Dr Andrea Uribarri, I was shocked to discover I had periodontitis(the silent disease) but Andrea a true professional put me totally at...”

Matthew Reilly

“I could not recommend 3Dental more. I got the Spark clear aligners done, my teeth have never looked so good. Special sound out to the from of desk Siobhan and Lauren, they were so helpful throughout...”

Anthony Reynolds

“Paul was always helpful and straight talking, always a good experience at 3Dental. Results of the Spark Aligner was very good.”

Tom Flynn

“I am delighted with the work that Dr. Clara Garcia did. I had spark treatment done on my lower teeth to straighten them. The result is far better than I expected, I highly recommend Dr. Clara and...”

Roisin Burke

“My experience with Dr. Paul and 3 Dental was great. I had the Spark aligners for approx 18 months and am delighted with the result. Dr. Paul and all of the staff at 3 Dental are very friendly and...”

Ready for the Next Step? Book Your Free Consultation

Enquire Now View Pricing Options