Gum Regeneration

If you have periodontitis, it’s possible that some of the bone that supports your teeth has begun to recede. Bones can be destroyed by periodontitis, or severe gum disease, and dental bone graft alexandria va can help new bone grow. It’s commonly understood that gum disease, if allowed to progress, can lead to the loss of teeth and the deterioration of the gum tissue, but it is less widely known that advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss in the jaw. Gum disease is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in dental plaque, which is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. This bacterial overgrowth leads to tenderness and inflammation in the gum tissue, causing the gums to swell, feel sore, and bleed easily. Symptoms of gum disease include chronic bad breath, swelling or bleeding in the gums, loose or sensitive teeth, and pain while chewing. This earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and gingivitis is treatable, and even reversible. If allowed to progress and become periodontitis, however, bacterial overgrowth infects the gums and the tissue that is under the teeth, and this infection gradually breaks down the bone and tissues that hold teeth in place. If left unaddressed, the teeth will gradually loosen and fall out. At this point, surgical procedures, including dental bone grafts, are necessary.

The simple answer is no. Unlike other tissues in the body, gum tissue does not regenerate once it has receded. This is why early detection and treatment are so important. While gums cannot grow back on their own, there are effective ways to prevent further loss and repair the damage through professional dental treatments. When gum recession is caught early, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, reducing inflammation and helping the gums stay healthy. Medicated rinses or antibiotic gels may also be prescribed to control bacteria and support healing. For more advanced cases, surgical treatments may be necessary. Gum grafting involves taking healthy tissue from another area of your mouth and attaching it to the affected site to restore coverage. Flap surgery allows for a deeper cleaning beneath the gums, while bonding can protect exposed roots and improve the appearance of the gumline.

If you have noticed issues such as swollen gums, chronic bad breath, recessed gums, or gums that bleed after brushing your teeth, these may all indicate that you have developed gum disease. If you are diagnosed with gum disease, your periodontist will discuss what treatment options are available to you. Gum line recession is typically between 2-4mm, but in cases of severe gum disease, this recession may be up to 15mm. When gum recession is this severe, you may begin to experience discomfort while drinking or eating, especially while eating or drinking foods or beverages that are hot or cold. Because gum disease will not correct itself naturally, it is important to treat the issue as soon as possible.