Will Receding Gums Grow Back?

 Posted on October 03, 2026 in General Dentistry

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue around a tooth pulls back and exposes part of the root. It becomes more common with age. According to Cleveland Clinic, about 88 percent of people over 65 have gum recession on at least one tooth.

Receded gum tissue doesn’t grow back on its own. Treatment can stop it from getting worse, though, and several procedures can successfully cover exposed roots. If your teeth have started to look longer or feel more sensitive in 2026, a Falls Church, VA dentist can check how far the recession has gone and what treatments might be a good fit.

Why Can’t Receding Gums Grow Back on Their Own?

Gum tissue that has receded doesn’t regenerate in its old position. Gums that are pushed down gradually over time, in particular, experience small adjustments in position that will not prompt a healing response the way acute trauma to tissue does.

It is possible to prevent further gum recession in many cases. A soft-bristled brush and gentler strokes can stop you from wearing away more tissue. A mild recession with no sensitivity may only require monitoring and better home care.

What Causes Receding Gums?

Gum recession often has more than one cause. Common ones include:

• Brushing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush
• Gum disease, which can break down gum tissue and the bone underneath
• Naturally thin gum tissue or other anatomical factors
• Genetics leading to thin gum tissue
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Misaligned teeth, or lip and tongue piercings that rub against the gums

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, gum disease can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth. As the gums pull away, more of the tooth or root can become exposed.

Gum disease is often identified and treated before other procedures. If plaque and tartar build up below the gumline, the infection can spread to the tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place. Early gum disease often does not hurt, so you may not know you have it until a dentist checks your gums and measures the depth of the pockets around your teeth.

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

At our office, treatment depends on how far gum disease has progressed.

For early to moderate gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing. This is a nonsurgical deep cleaning. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots so bacteria have a harder time collecting there.

More advanced cases may need gum surgery to reach areas a deep cleaning cannot. If the infection has caused bone loss, a bone graft can help restore support for the tooth. Gum grafts can also cover exposed roots and rebuild lost gum tissue in areas affected by recession.

What Is a Gum Graft?

Gum graft surgery covers exposed roots with new tissue, often taken from the roof of the patient’s mouth. A graft can lower sensitivity, protect the root from decay, and even out your gumline. Gum grafting is often the most predictable and long-lasting treatment for gum recession.

Initial recovery for a gum graft usually takes one to two weeks. Both the graft site and the gumline may be sore for a few days afterward.

Are There Less Invasive Options for Receding Gums Than a Gum Graft?

One less invasive option that some dentists offer is pinhole gum surgery. This involves making a small opening in the gum near the affected tooth. Special instruments are used to loosen the gum tissue and reposition it over the exposed root. Collagen material may then be used to help support the tissue while it heals. No tissue is taken from the roof of your mouth, and the technique may avoid traditional sutures.

Pinhole surgery is generally best for mild to moderate gum recession in individuals with otherwise healthy gums. Severe recession or major bone loss may still call for a traditional graft.

For mild recession, dental bonding can also cover the exposed root with tooth-colored resin. This can improve the look of the area and reduce sensitivity without adding gum tissue.

Call an Alexandria, VA Cosmetic Dentist Today

At Alexandria Dental Art, we understand if you’re concerned about receding gums. Your smile is your signature accessory, and healthy gums are a vital part of it.

If you are worried about your gumline, schedule an appointment with our office to get professional feedback in comfort. We offer dental massage chairs, overhead flat screens, aromatherapy heated neck pillows, weighted blankets, and hot towel service. Complimentary tea, coffee, cold drinks, and snacks are always available.

Call us at 703-566-8799 to schedule a visit with our Falls Church, VA dentist today.