Ear, nose and throat
Medicines for Receding gums
When the gum tissue pulls back to expose more of the tooth or its root, often causing sensitivity — managed by addressing the cause and, sometimes, dental treatment.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Receding gums?
Gum recession (receding gums) is when the gum tissue around the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth, and eventually the tooth root, which is normally covered by the gum. As the root becomes exposed, it can lead to symptoms such as sensitivity (because the root is not protected by enamel, so hot, cold, and sweet things can cause twinges), the teeth looking longer, notches or gaps appearing near the gum line, and an increased risk of decay and problems at the exposed root.
- How it is treated: Managing gum recession focuses first on identifying and stopping the cause to prevent further recession, since receded gum does not usually grow back, and on managing any symptoms.
- Self-care: Gentle, correct tooth brushing (soft brush, not too hard, with dental advice on technique), treating any gum disease, stopping smoking, managing grinding, using sensitive-teeth toothpaste for exposed roots, and regular dental care all help stop gum recession worsening and manage symptoms.
- When to seek help: See a dentist about receding gums, exposed tooth roots, or sensitivity, so the cause can be identified and addressed to prevent it worsening, and symptoms managed.
What it is
Gum recession (receding gums) is when the gum tissue around the teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth, and eventually the tooth root, which is normally covered by the gum. As the root becomes exposed, it can lead to symptoms such as sensitivity (because the root is not protected by enamel, so hot, cold, and sweet things can cause twinges), the teeth looking longer, notches or gaps appearing near the gum line, and an increased risk of decay and problems at the exposed root. Gum recession is common and usually develops gradually over time. It has several causes, often in combination: gum disease (a major cause, where inflammation damages the gum and supporting tissues); over-vigorous or incorrect tooth brushing (brushing too hard, or with a hard brush, which can wear the gums away); the natural effects of age; grinding or clenching the teeth; the position of the teeth and how they fit together; smoking; and sometimes genetic tendency or the effect of tongue or lip piercings. Importantly, once gum has receded, it does not generally grow back on its own, so the aims of managing gum recession are to identify and stop the cause to prevent it worsening, to manage symptoms such as sensitivity, and, where needed, to consider dental treatment. Because gum recession is often linked to gum disease and to brushing habits, addressing these is key.
How it is treated
Managing gum recession focuses first on identifying and stopping the cause to prevent further recession, since receded gum does not usually grow back, and on managing any symptoms. Key measures include: gentle, correct tooth brushing (using a soft toothbrush and not brushing too hard, with the dental team advising on technique), which is important as over-brushing is a common cause; treating any gum disease with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning; addressing other contributing factors, such as stopping smoking and managing grinding (for example with a bite splint). For sensitivity from exposed roots, measures help — such as using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, and the dentist may apply treatments (such as fluoride or sealants) to protect and desensitise the exposed areas. Regular dental care monitors the recession and gum health. In some cases, where recession is significant (for example causing marked sensitivity, decay at the root, or cosmetic concern), a dentist may consider treatments to cover the exposed root or restore the area, including gum-covering procedures (gum grafts) in selected cases, usually by a specialist. Preventing further recession through good, gentle oral hygiene and regular dental care is central. The reassuring message is that, while receded gum does not grow back on its own, gum recession can usually be stopped from worsening by addressing its cause (particularly gum disease and brushing technique), sensitivity can be managed, and dental treatments are available where needed.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Receding gums
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Gentle, correct tooth brushing (soft brush, not too hard, with dental advice on technique), treating any gum disease, stopping smoking, managing grinding, using sensitive-teeth toothpaste for exposed roots, and regular dental care all help stop gum recession worsening and manage symptoms. Receded gum does not grow back on its own, so preventing further recession is key.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a dentist about receding gums, exposed tooth roots, or sensitivity, so the cause can be identified and addressed to prevent it worsening, and symptoms managed. Regular dental check-ups help monitor and maintain gum health. See a dentist if gum problems or sensitivity are troublesome.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Receding gums: frequently asked questions
What causes receding gums?
Often several factors combine — gum disease (a major cause), over-vigorous or incorrect brushing, age, teeth grinding, tooth position, and smoking. The gum pulls back to expose the tooth and its root, which can cause sensitivity and other problems. It usually develops gradually.
Can receding gums grow back?
Receded gum does not generally grow back on its own, so the aims are to stop it worsening by addressing the cause (particularly gum disease and brushing technique), manage sensitivity, and, where needed, consider dental treatments — including gum-covering procedures in selected cases.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Gum disease
- Oral Health Foundation guidance
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