Having receding gums is a problem you shouldn't ignore: if you don't address a receding gum condition, you can end up with loose or missing teeth, mouth infections, a change in your bite, and soreness or discomfort in your gums.

A receding gum line is something dentists can treat, although an existing negative gum line cannot be reversed. This is why it's important to treat a receding gum line as soon as you notice your teeth appearing longer than usual, your gums pulling away from some teeth but not others, and other issues with your smile. What can dentists do about receding gums? Make an appointment to visit your dentist right away if you have this condition so you can get a diagnosis for what's causing it as well as a dental solution to help save your remaining gums and your teeth.

Treat any existing gum infections

One of the most common causes of a receding gum line is existing gum infections. Gum infections can cause pockets of infections in the gum line, leading to gums becoming inflamed and then causing them to pull away from the teeth. Dentists can treat existing gum infections to help stop the spread of receding gums so you can enjoy a healthier, more natural smile.

Perform gum surgery to restore gums

Your dentist can perform gum surgery on your mouth to help restore your gum tissue and improve your smile. There are a few ways they will assist in making receding gums better.

Performing a gum graft

A gum graft is a special procedure where tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth then adhered to the gum areas in your mouth where the gum line is receding and gum tissue is weak. Over time, the graft becomes accepted by the gum tissue, thus allowing the gums to become thicker and more healthy.

Performing gum restoration

If your gums are seriously damaged due to infection and inflammation, dentists can restore weak gum tissue by introducing bone material, tissues, and membranes from other matter in your body to encourage better gum health.

Gum tissue won't restore itself on its own, but you can do your part to help keep further gum recession at bay. This is done by allowing your dentist to work on your gums as soon as you notice your teeth looking strange. If your gums are puffy and swollen, dark red, or emitting a foul odor, talk to a local dentist in your area to see what can be done.