Medically Reviewed by Dr. David Peto on September 9, 2026
Gum recession is not reversible on its own once the tissue has pulled away from the tooth root, but the good news is that a periodontist can treat the underlying cause and, in many cases, rebuild lost gum tissue through grafting or regenerative procedures. What matters most is catching it early and understanding which treatment fits the severity of your recession, since options range from a deep cleaning to surgical tissue grafting.
At Advanced Periodontics of N.J., we treat gum recession at every stage, from mild cases caused by aggressive brushing to more advanced recession tied to periodontal disease. Our approach starts with identifying the cause, since treating recession without addressing what triggered it usually leads to the same problem returning.
What Causes Gum Recession
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue surrounding a tooth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth and sometimes the root surface underneath. According to the CDC, around 40 percent of adults over 30 experience some degree of gum recession, and the rate increases with age. Common causes include:
- Periodontal disease and the bacterial buildup that comes with it
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Genetics, which can predispose some patients to thinner gum tissue
- Tobacco use, including smoking and vaping
- Bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding
- Misaligned teeth that put uneven pressure on the gumline
Because recession can stem from several different causes, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward choosing the right treatment rather than guessing at a fix.
Why Recession Does Not Reverse on Its Own
Once gum tissue has receded, it does not grow back naturally the way skin regenerates after a minor cut. The tissue that has been lost is gone, which is why prevention and early treatment matter so much. That said, a periodontist can often restore lost coverage over the tooth root through grafting procedures, effectively rebuilding what recession took away, even though the body cannot do this on its own.
Treating the Underlying Cause First
Before addressing the recession itself, we look at what caused it. That may mean treating active periodontal disease, adjusting a brushing technique, addressing bruxism with a nightguard, or coordinating with an orthodontist if misaligned teeth are putting uneven pressure on the gums. Skipping this step often means recession returns even after a successful graft.
Nonsurgical and Surgical Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on how much tissue has been lost and what is driving the recession. Mild cases are often addressed with scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline and smooths the tooth root to help the gum reattach. More advanced recession may call for a gum graft, where tissue from another area of the mouth is used to cover the exposed root and rebuild the gumline. In cases where bone loss has occurred alongside the recession, bone regeneration procedures may also be recommended to rebuild the supporting structure beneath the gum.
What Happens if Gum Recession Is Left Untreated
Left untreated, gum recession can progress and expose more of the tooth root, which is more prone to decay and sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. In more advanced stages, the loss of supporting tissue and bone can contribute to tooth mobility. Addressing recession earlier generally means a simpler, less invasive treatment path, which is one reason we encourage patients to seek treatment as soon as they notice changes rather than waiting until symptoms worsen.
How Advanced Periodontics of N.J. Approaches Gum Recession
Every recession case starts with a full periodontal evaluation to measure how much tissue has been lost and to identify the underlying cause. From there, we build a treatment plan that may combine a deep cleaning, a lifestyle adjustment, or a grafting procedure, depending on severity. Our goal is not just to treat the visible recession but to reduce the chance that it comes back once treatment is complete.
Get Expert Care for Gum Recession
Dr. Matei and Dr. Peto bring advanced surgical training in gum grafting and regenerative periodontal procedures, allowing our team to treat recession at any stage with a plan tailored to the underlying cause. We take the time to explain what caused your recession and why a particular treatment is recommended, rather than defaulting to the same protocol for every patient.
If you have noticed your gums pulling back from your teeth or increased tooth sensitivity, do not wait for it to progress. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and find out which treatment option fits your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Recession
Can gum recession grow back without treatment?
No. Once gum tissue recedes, it does not regenerate on its own. A periodontist can restore lost coverage through grafting procedures, but the tissue will not grow back naturally without treatment.
Is a gum graft the only treatment for gum recession?
No. Mild recession is often treated with a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing, along with addressing the underlying cause. Grafting is typically reserved for more advanced cases with significant tissue loss.
How can I tell if my gum recession is getting worse?
Signs include teeth appearing longer than before, increased sensitivity to hot or cold, and visible exposure of the tooth root. A periodontal evaluation can measure recession precisely and track changes over time.
Does brushing technique really cause gum recession?
Yes, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush is a common contributing factor. Switching to a soft-bristled brush and a gentler technique can help prevent further recession.
Is gum graft surgery painful?
Gum grafting is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients experience mild soreness afterward that is manageable with guidance from their periodontist. Recovery time varies based on the extent of the graft.
About the Author
Dr. David Peto
Periodontist, Advanced Periodontics of N.J.
Dr. Peto and co-founder Dr. Matei lead Advanced Periodontics of N.J., providing individualized periodontal and implant care to patients throughout New Jersey.
