What Is Gum Regeneration?

Posted on 7/1/2025 by Dr. Sam Kelly

Person showing gums, at Oak Park Dental.

Have you noticed your gums receding, exposing more of your teeth? This condition, known as gum recession, can be a cause for concern. It not only affects the appearance of your smile but can also lead to tooth sensitivity, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, there are ways to address this issue, and one of the most effective solutions is gum regeneration.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Several factors can contribute to gum recession, including:

•	Periodontal disease: This chronic infection of the gums is the most common cause of gum recession.
•	Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage the gums and cause them to recede.
•	Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can decrease blood flow to the gums, making them more vulnerable to recession.
•	Trauma: Injuries to the mouth, such as from a fall or sports accident, can damage the gums.
•	Genetics: Some people are naturally predisposed to gum recession.

How Does Gum Regeneration Work?

Gum regeneration is a dental procedure that aims to restore lost gum tissue and rebuild the supporting bone structure. This typically involves one of the following approaches:

1. Surgical Gum Grafting: This procedure involves taking a small piece of tissue, usually from the roof of your mouth, and transplanting it to the area of gum recession. The transplanted tissue will then grow and cover the exposed tooth root.

2. Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): This technique uses a special membrane to cover the exposed tooth root and create a space for the gum tissue and bone to regenerate.

3. Pinhole Surgical Technique: This minimally invasive procedure involves making small pinholes in the gums and then gently stretching the gum tissue to cover the exposed tooth root.

Benefits of Gum Regeneration

Gum regeneration offers several benefits, including:

•	Improved appearance: Gum regeneration can restore a more natural and aesthetically pleasing smile.
•	Reduced tooth sensitivity: Covering exposed tooth roots can significantly reduce sensitivity to hot, cold, and acidic foods and drinks.
•	Prevented bone loss: Gum regeneration can help prevent further bone loss around the teeth, preserving the health and stability of your smile.
•	Reduced risk of tooth loss: By addressing gum recession, you can significantly reduce the risk of losing teeth due to periodontal disease.

Who Is a Candidate for Gum Regeneration?

If you are experiencing gum recession, you may be a candidate for gum regeneration. However, it is important to consult with a qualified dentist to determine if this procedure is right for you. Factors such as the severity of your gum recession, the overall health of your gums and teeth, and your medical history will be considered before making a recommendation.

Conclusion

Gum recession is a common dental problem that can have serious consequences if left untreated. Fortunately, gum regeneration offers a highly effective solution to restore lost gum tissue and prevent further damage. If you are concerned about gum recession, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options and learn more about this important procedure.

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Dentist Salem OR • About Oak Park Dental
Providing modern dental technology and advanced oral health care to give you a comfortable and stress-free dental experience in Salem and Keizer, OR. Call today!
Oak Park Dental, 3380 Astoria Way NE, Salem, OR 97305 / (971) 600-0211 / salemsmiles.com / 7/10/2025 / Tags: dentist Salem OR /