Best Gum Recession Treatments

If you’ve noticed your gums pulling back or your teeth looking longer than they used to, it’s time to pay attention. Gum recession isn’t only cosmetic, it’s your body’s way of warning that the tissue supporting your teeth needs care.

At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants in Covington and Slidell, Louisiana, Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith specialize in restoring smiles affected by gum recession. Here’s what you need to know about shrinking gums and how we treat them.

Why gum recession happens

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue that normally hugs your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing the tooth’s root. This can happen gradually or quickly, depending on the cause.

Sometimes it’s due to gum disease (periodontitis) breaking down the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Other times, it stems from brushing too hard, genetics, smoking, or even hormonal changes. 

Regardless of the cause, the result is the same — exposed roots that can feel sensitive, collect bacteria, and eventually lead to tooth loss if untreated.

Why treating gum recession matters

When gums recede, your teeth lose their natural defense system. You may notice sensitivity when drinking something cold or hot, or feel discomfort when brushing. Over time, the exposed root becomes more vulnerable to decay.

Early intervention prevents further tissue loss, protects tooth roots, and restores a healthy balance between your gums and teeth.

The best gum recession treatment: Stop and rebuild

At St. Tammany Periodontics, we approach gum recession in two steps — stop the cause, then rebuild the tissue.

For mild cases, we may recommend gentler brushing techniques, professional cleanings, and periodontal therapy to stop the progression. But when the gums have already receded significantly, you may need a gum grafting procedure to restore lost tissue.

Restoring your gum line with tissue grafting

Tissue grafting remains the most effective treatment for moderate to advanced gum recession. We use a small amount of healthy tissue — either from your palate or a donor source — and gently place it over the exposed roots. 

This new tissue integrates with your natural gums, covering the vulnerable area and strengthening your gum line.

The result is healthier, more even gums that look natural and protect your teeth in the long term. Most patients also notice less sensitivity and a more youthful, balanced smile.

What to expect and how recovery feels

You’ll be comfortable throughout your grafting procedure because we use local anesthesia to keep the area numb. The process is typically quick, and most patients return to regular activities within a day or two.

During the first week, we ask you to:

• Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, or eggs
• Avoid brushing directly over the graft site
• Skip drinking alcohol, smoking, and heavy workouts while the area heals

Full healing takes a few weeks, but many patients say the mild tenderness is well worth the restored comfort and appearance.

When it’s time to act

If your teeth look longer, feel more sensitive, or have notches near the gum line, it’s time to schedule an evaluation. Gum tissue doesn’t regenerate on its own, so waiting only allows the condition to progress.

Our team will evaluate your gums, measure the extent of recession, and create a personalized plan to restore your oral health and confidence.

Rebuild your smile with confidence

You don’t have to live with sensitive teeth or receding gums. At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants, we combine precision techniques with a gentle touch to restore your gum health and protect your smile for years to come.

Call or request an appointment online at our Covington or Slidell office today — and let’s bring your smile back to full strength.