Gum recession happens gradually, yet it can change how your smile looks and how comfortable your teeth feel each day. At Metrolina Periodontics and Dental Implants in Charlotte, you receive care from specialists who diagnose and treat gum recession every day. We design a personalized plan that protects your gums, restores lost tissue when possible, and helps you feel confident in your smile again. Our team focuses on comfort, clarity, and strong outcomes throughout your treatment.
What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue slowly pulls away from the tooth, exposing the root surface and making the area more sensitive. This process often develops gradually, and many patients do not notice the early signs. Because recession can progress quietly, routine periodontal exams play an important role in early detection and prevention.
Common Symptoms of Gum Recession
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Teeth that appear longer
- Visible tooth roots
- Gum tissue that looks thin or uneven
- Bleeding or inflammation
- A history of grinding or aggressive brushing
If you see these changes, a periodontal evaluation can help you understand the cause and your treatment options.
Why Gum Recession Happens
Gum recession has many possible causes, and your treatment plan depends on identifying the one affecting you. Your periodontist examines your gums, bone levels, and overall oral health to understand why the tissue has receded.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
- Overly aggressive brushing
- Periodontal disease
- Genetics and thin gum tissue
- Misaligned teeth or bite issues
- Clenching or grinding
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tobacco use
- Past orthodontic movement
Once the cause is understood, your periodontist will help you protect your gums and outline the next steps for treatment.
Gum Recession Treatment Options
Each plan is tailored to your needs. Our focus is to stop further recession, restore lost tissue when possible, and create a healthy foundation for your teeth.
Non Surgical Options
- Softer brushing technique
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Professional cleaning
- Bite and grinding assessment
These steps help stabilize early cases and protect the supporting tissue.
Gum Grafting and Regenerative Treatments
Many patients benefit from gum grafting, a procedure that replaces lost tissue and reinforces thin gums. This creates a healthier and more protective barrier around the tooth.
- Types of Gum Grafting
- Connective tissue grafting
- Donor or allograft tissue
- Tissue regeneration techniques
Your periodontist will recommend the approach that best supports your needs, your comfort, and your gum health.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your comfort comes first. Most treatments use local anesthetic. You will receive clear explanations, a calm environment, and time to ask questions.
Your Treatment Experience
- Your periodontist prepares the area and removes any inflammation.
- The graft or regenerative material is placed and secured.
- A periodontal dressing protects the area if needed.
- You receive detailed home care instructions to support healing.
Follow up visits ensure the tissue heals well and remains stable.
Gum Recession Treatment Recovery and Healing
Most patients return to normal routines quickly. Mild swelling is common during the first days. A medicated rinse and a soft diet may be recommended. As healing progresses, the gum line becomes stronger and more even. Full healing occurs over several weeks. Your periodontist will monitor your progress and confirm that the new tissue integrates well.
Why Patients Choose Metrolina Periodontics & Dental Implants
At Metrolina Periodontics and Dental Implants, you receive attentive surgical care that reflects our focus on precision, clear communication, and patient comfort. Your treatment is provided by Dr. Matthew Ficca and Dr. Daniel Hall, both board-certified periodontists and dental implant surgeons. Both doctors take the time to explain your treatment and help you feel confident at every stage.
What Sets Our Practice Apart
- Detailed evaluations to identify the cause of recession
- Advanced gum grafting techniques
- Personalized, unrushed appointments
- Calm and welcoming environment
- Modern surgical suites and advanced technology
- Direct follow up from your doctor
- Strong reputation for periodontal excellence throughout Charlotte
Are You a Candidate for Gum Recession Treatment?
You may be a good candidate if you notice sensitivity, longer-looking teeth, visible roots, or thinning gum tissue. Your periodontist will assess your gum health, identify the cause of your recession, and recommend the most effective treatment for lasting stability.
Gum Recession Treatment FAQs
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Is Gum Recession Reversible?
Gum recession does not grow back on its own because the gum tissue cannot regenerate once it pulls away from the tooth. The exposed root remains vulnerable to sensitivity and further recession. The most effective way to restore lost tissue is through gum grafting or regenerative care provided by a periodontist. These treatments replace missing tissue, strengthen thin areas, and protect the root surface so you avoid ongoing complications. When the graft heals, it blends naturally with your gum and provides stable coverage for many years.
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Will Gum Recession Make My Teeth Loose?
It can, especially if the recession progresses without treatment. When the root surface becomes exposed, bacteria and inflammation can affect the bone that supports the tooth. Over time, this can weaken the foundation and increase mobility. Treating recession early helps protect the bone, strengthen the gums, and prevent future instability. Most patients who treat recession early can maintain strong and healthy teeth for many years.
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How Long Does Recovery Take After Gum Recession Treatment?
Most patients experience early healing within a week, and many return to normal routines with simple adjustments. You may follow a soft diet during the first days, and your periodontist may recommend a medicated rinse. Full healing takes several weeks because the graft must integrate with your natural tissue. Follow up visits help ensure that the graft is healthy and stable. Once healing is complete, the area looks natural and feels secure.
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Is Gum Recession Treatment Painful?
You remain comfortable throughout your treatment because local anesthetic is used to numb the area. Mild soreness after the procedure is common, but most patients find it manageable with basic home care. Your doctor provides detailed instructions that help you feel comfortable during the early healing period. Many patients are surprised by how smooth their recovery feels.
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Why Are My Gums Receding Even Though I Brush Well?
Gum recession often happens for reasons unrelated to brushing frequency. You may naturally have thin gum tissue or experience recession from genetics, bite stress, grinding, or past orthodontic treatment. Aggressive brushing can also contribute to recession over time. During your evaluation, your periodontist checks your gum thickness, bite alignment, brushing technique, and health history to identify the exact cause. This allows you to receive a plan that prevents further tissue loss and supports stability.
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Will Gum Grafting Improve The Look Of My Smile?
Yes. Gum grafting improves both the health and the appearance of your smile. When roots are exposed, teeth can look longer or uneven. A graft restores a natural gum contour and creates a smoother and more balanced smile. Many patients notice that their teeth look more proportional and their smile feels more youthful after treatment. Once healed, the result blends naturally with your existing gum tissue.
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Can Gum Grafting Help With Tooth Sensitivity?
Yes. Exposed roots are highly sensitive to temperature changes and brushing. Gum grafting covers these areas and protects the nerve, which reduces sensitivity and improves comfort. Many patients experience significant relief once the graft has healed.
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Is Gum Recession Treatment Permanent?
A graft that heals well can remain stable for many years. While natural aging or other factors can affect the gums over time, grafts are designed to provide extended support. Your periodontist will give you a personalized prevention plan to protect your results and reduce the risk of future recession.
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Can Gum Recession Affect Multiple Teeth At Once?
Yes. Many patients have recession on several teeth, especially when the cause relates to thin tissue, bite issues, or past orthodontics. Your periodontist will help you decide whether to treat one area or several during the same visit. Treating multiple teeth can create a more uniform gum line and support stability for the entire area.
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How Do I Know If I Need To See A Periodontist For Gum Recession?
You should schedule an evaluation if you notice visible roots, gum thinning, tooth sensitivity, or teeth that look longer than before. Periodontists specialize in the gums and supporting bone, making them the most qualified providers for treating gum recession. During your consultation, your doctor will measure the recession, identify the cause, and outline a clear plan that supports your gum health.
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How Soon Can I Eat After Treatment?
Most patients can eat soft foods once the numbness fades. Your doctor will give you detailed guidance so you know which foods are best during early healing. As the tissue heals, your diet will gradually return to normal.
Start Your Personalized Periodontal Care With Metrolina
If you want to restore your gum health and protect your smile, our team is here to support you. You will receive a clear treatment plan, a calm experience, and expert guidance throughout your care. Schedule a consultation to learn how gum recession treatment can help you.
