Diabetic? Here’s How to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Prevent Periodontitis

Receding gums are gums that separate from the teeth, exposing the roots. This can make your teeth sensitive, increase the likelihood of cavities, and even cause you to lose teeth if you don't fix it. You can see it right away if you have gum disease, which affects around half of all people in the U.S. aged 30 and up. The good news is that the receding gums are manageable, and treatment is available at every stage. Whether you're just starting to notice changes or have been dealing with discomfort for a while, you're not out of options. In this article, we'll walk you through 10 effective treatment options, including both professional procedures and at-home care, to help you protect your smile. What are Receding Gums Gums that recede can happen when the gum tissue that usually covers and protects your teeth slowly pulls away, exposing more of the tooth or its root, which can make your teeth feel more sensitive and appear longer than usual. A recession often develops gradually, which is why many people don't notice it until it becomes more advanced. There are several common causes of gum recession, including: Natural aging and genetics. Poor oral hygiene and plaque/tartar buildup. Over-aggressive brushing or hard toothbrushes. Smoking or chewing tobacco. Hormonal changes and medical conditions (like diabetes ). Misaligned teeth or grinding (bruxism). Dry mouth and certain medications. Gums that have receded do not grow back on their own. However, with the proper treatment, it's possible to restore protection to the teeth, reduce sensitivity, and prevent the condition from getting worse. In other words, while gum tissue can't regenerate naturally, there are effective ways to manage and repair the damage. Although receding gums are more common as people get older, they aren't an unavoidable part of aging. Gum health can be protected at any stage of life, especially when caught and treated early. 10 Options to Treat Receding Gums If you're dealing with gum recession, you have multiple treatment options available. Some focus on stopping further damage, while others aim to restore lost gum tissue and protect exposed roots. Below are 10 professional and at-home options that can help you treat and manage receding gums. 1. Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) Dentists often begin treatment by performing a deep cleaning, especially when plaque or tartar has built up below the gumline. During scaling and root planing, they carefully remove the bacteria and smooth the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and reduce inflammation. Patients usually receive a local anesthetic to stay comfortable. In many cases, deep cleaning alone significantly improves gum health without the need for surgery. 2. Topical Antibiotics and Antimicrobial Rinses Dentists apply antibiotic gels or place slow-release medications under the gums to fight infection caused by harmful bacteria. These treatments eliminate the cause of gum inflammation and are often used alongside deep cleanings. For added support, dentists may recommend prescription antimicrobial mouth rinses to reduce bacteria at home and support healing. 3. Gum Grafting Surgery Periodontists use gum grafting to restore missing gum tissue and protect exposed roots. They take healthy tissue, usually from the roof of your mouth or a donor, and place it over the affected area. Grafting strengthens and protects gums, improves the smile, and reduces sensitivity. It's one of the most effective long-term solutions for moderate to severe gum recession. 4. Pinhole Surgical Technique Some dentists use the pinhole technique as a less invasive alternative to gum grafting. They make a small entry point in the gum, then reposition the tissue over the exposed roots using special tools, without cutting or stitching. Patients often experience faster recovery, less discomfort, and immediate cosmetic improvement, especially in the front teeth. 5. Dental Bonding Dental bonding is the process of covering visible tooth roots with a tooth-colored resin. Dentists use this method to make teeth less sensitive and improve the way they look when gums have receded. However, bonding does not replace lost gum tissue because it works on the tooth itself, not the gums. It acts as a protective cover over the exposed root, but it doesn't rebuild the gumline or restore the gum's natural position. Still, it's a valuable option for people who aren't candidates for gum grafting or want a quick, non-surgical fix for sensitivity or cosmetic concerns. 6. Orthodontic Treatment Misaligned teeth can cause varying levels of pressure on the gums, resulting in gum recession. Orthodontic treatment, which involves gently moving teeth into better alignment with braces or clear aligners, helps reduce gum stress. Improved alignment makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and allows the gums to stabilize or reposition naturally over time. 7. Desensitizing Toothpaste & Fluoride Varnish Desensitizing toothpastes and fluoride varnishes don't reverse gum recession, but they help manage the symptoms, especially tooth sensitivity caused by exposed roots. These products work by blocking nerve signals or strengthening the tooth's surface, making it easier to eat, drink, and brush comfortably. They are part of the treatment plan because they improve daily comfort and help protect the exposed areas during mild gum recession that doesn't yet require surgical repair. 8. Lifestyle & Home Remedies Daily habits have a direct impact on gum health. If you brush too hard, use a toothbrush with hard bristles, or grind your teeth at night, these actions can all make gum recession worse by physically damaging the gumline. Making small changes, like using a soft-bristled brush, brushing gently in circular motions, wearing a nightguard if you grind, and quitting smoking, reduces ongoing damage and supports healing. These changes won't reverse the existing recession, but they will help prevent it from progressing further. 9. Saltwater Rinse Rinsing with warm salt water helps soothe sore or inflamed gums, especially after dental cleanings or procedures. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Then, slowly swirl the water around your mouth for 30 seconds. Although saltwater helps with healing and comfort, it won't reverse gum recession or replace professional care because they don't stimulate new cell growth or repair structural damage. 10. Regular Preventive Dental Visits Visiting your dentist every six months, or more often if recommended, allows for early detection and treatment of gum issues. Cleanings every six months remove plaque and tartar that you can't remove by brushing and flossing. Dentists can track your gum health over time and adjust your care plan as needed, helping you avoid more serious problems later on. What Happens If You Don't Treat Receding Gums? Ignoring gum recession can lead to serious oral health problems that become harder and more expensive to treat over time. As the gums pull farther away from the teeth, more of the tooth root becomes exposed. Unlike the top of the tooth, roots aren't protected by strong enamel, making them much more vulnerable to decay, infection, and painful sensitivity. Over time, untreated recession can also lead to bone loss around the teeth. The gums and jawbone work together to hold your teeth in place. As they weaken, teeth can become loose or even fall out. In fact, gum disease , including recession, is one of the top causes of tooth loss in adults. Beyond oral health, gum disease has also been linked to heart disease and other health problems, diabetes complications, and pregnancy risks. Taking action early protects your smile and supports your overall health. Frequently Asked Questions  1. How do I fix my receding gums? Fixing receding gums starts with understanding what's causing them. If it's because of buildup or gum disease, scaling and root planning could remove the bacteria and keep your gums healthy. If the recession is more advanced, surgical options like gum grafting or the pinhole technique can help cover exposed roots and restore your smile. We'll look at your specific case and recommend a treatment plan that fits your needs. In some cases, a combination of professional care and changes in your brushing habits is enough to prevent further gum loss. 2. Do receding gums grow back? No, gums don't grow back naturally once they've pulled away from the tooth. Gum tissue doesn't regenerate the same way other parts of your body might. That said, modern treatments can restore coverage and protect your teeth. At Austin Elite Smiles, we offer procedures like gum grafting that rebuild the gumline and reduce sensitivity. While the tissue won't grow back on its own, it can be replaced or repositioned with treatment. 3. What can I do to help my gums grow back? There's currently no proven way to make gum tissue grow back naturally. However, you can support healthier gums by brushing gently with a soft toothbrush, flossing daily, and avoiding tobacco. These habits can help prevent the recession from worsening. Some procedures, like gum grafting or the pinhole surgical method, can move or add gum tissue where it's needed to rebuild the gumline. 4. Does salt water help receding gums? Salt water doesn't reverse gum recession, but it helps you keep your mouth clean and reduces inflammation. Rinsing with warm salt water is a good way to soothe sore gums, especially after a dental procedure or during early signs of irritation. It's not a treatment for gum loss, but it can be a helpful part of your oral care routine. Just make sure you're not using it as a replacement for professional care.

Considering getting your teeth aligned often raises questions, as it’s not something most people have experienced before. Misaligned teeth are prevalent; research shows that 56% of people worldwide experience some form of malocclusion. With so many people dealing with the same issue, it’s normal to wonder what the procedure involves, whether it will be uncomfortable, or how it might affect your appearance or speech. Having these questions upfront is a healthy part of preparing for treatment. What is Teeth Alignment and Why Do You Need It? Teeth alignment is the process of moving teeth into a straighter and more balanced position. When teeth are correctly aligned, they work together more effectively for chewing, speaking, and maintaining a comfortable bite. This type of treatment also helps reduce strain on the jaw, making it easier to maintain good oral health. Misaligned teeth , or malocclusion, can develop for many reasons. Some of the most common include genetics, certain childhood habits such as prolonged pacifier use, losing baby teeth earlier than normal, or when there isn’t enough space in the jaw to fit all the teeth properly. Over time, these problems can affect more than just appearance, as significant misalignment may place uneven pressure on the jaw and sometimes contribute to facial asymmetry. Teeth alignment treatment is designed for individuals seeking to enhance the fit of their teeth, aiming for improved comfort, enhanced function, or a more even smile. For many, it is a step toward healthier long-term oral care as well as improved confidence. Pros and Cons of Clear Aligners vs. Braces  Clear aligners and braces are both used to improve tooth position and fix bite problems, yet they achieve results in different ways and influence daily routines differently. Many patients focus on the benefits of aligners , such as their appearance and flexibility, while others value the reliability of braces.

Key Takeaways Root canals are safe, effective, and help save your natural tooth. Modern techniques make the procedure nearly painless for most patients. Recovery is quick; most people resume normal activities within a day. Costs vary, but insurance often covers a significant portion. Early treatment prevents complications and protects your long-term oral health. 

Key Takeaways Misaligned teeth are common and can affect how you bite, chew, speak, and feel about your smile. Causes of misalignment include genetics, habits like thumb sucking, injury, and natural changes with age. Some natural methods, like tongue posture and retainers, can help maintain alignment, but professional treatments, like Invisalign or braces, are needed for bigger changes. Signs of misalignment include an uneven bite, jaw tension, and teeth that shift or wear down unevenly. Teeth can be realigned with expert care. Early check-ups and treatment can prevent future problems and improve both function and appearance.

Key Takeaways Gum disease often progresses silently —early signs like bleeding gums should not be ignored. Periodontitis can’t be cured but can be controlled with proper treatment and maintenance. Deep pockets and gum recession signal advanced disease and require professional care. Lifestyle factors like smoking and diabetes increase risk , even with good oral hygiene. Regular dental visits and consistent home care are essential for prevention and long-term gum health.

Key Takeaways Koplik spots are an early and highly specific sign of measles, often appearing 1–2 days before the rash. Recognizing them early can lead to faster diagnosis and isolation. They typically appear as bluish-white spots with a red halo on the inside of the cheeks (buccal mucosa) and are not usually painful. Not all measles cases include Koplik spots, and their brief visibility means they can be easily missed—making timely clinical examination important. Koplik spots differ from Forchheimer spots, which appear on the soft palate and are associated with rubella or other viral infections but are not specific. The best way to prevent Koplik spots—and measles—is through full MMR vaccination, which offers up to 97% protection against the disease.

Tooth enamel is your smile’s first line of defense—the hardest mineralized tissue in the human body. This protective outer layer shields your teeth from decay, cavities, and damage. But unlike other tissues, enamel cannot regenerate once it wears away. This is because the specialized cells that create enamel are lost once your teeth erupt, leaving no way for the body to repair damage naturally . Instead, dentists rely on synthetic materials to restore lost enamel, but nothing truly replicates it. That’s why protecting it is essential for long-term oral health and a lasting smile.

If you’ve ever tried hiding your smile in photos or felt self-conscious talking to friends because of chipped, stained, or uneven teeth, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve heard about dental bonding and veneers—these are two popular ways dentists fix teeth imperfections. But which is the right option for you? Both treatments can make you smile more confidently, but knowing their differences can save you from costly regrets later on. Here’s a guide discussing their differences, pros and cons, and questions you’re dying to ask but too afraid to.

Dentist showing a smiling patient her teeth using a handheld mirror