Thin or receding gums can be caused by a number of factors, including periodontal disease, aging, genetic predisposition, clenching or grinding teeth, and aggressive brushing. Thin gums expose more of the tooth root, making teeth sensitive and increasing susceptibility to decay. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to help thicken and strengthen gums.
Causes of Thin Gums
Some of the most common causes of thin gums include:
- Periodontal disease – Bacterial infection that damages gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
- Aging – Gums naturally recede over time.
- Genetics – Some people are more prone to receding gums.
- Aggressive brushing – Too much pressure while brushing can wear down gums.
- Clenching/grinding teeth – Puts excess force on gums.
- Tobacco use – Can reduce blood flow and cell regrowth in gums.
- Pregnancy – Hormonal changes can increase inflammation and gum sensitivity.
- Medications – Some blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and more can increase likelihood of receding gums.
- Crooked teeth – Make plaque removal difficult leading to gingivitis.
Importance of Healthy Gums
It’s important to maintain healthy gums for a number of reasons:
- Prevent tooth loss – Firm gums help hold teeth in place.
- Reduce tooth sensitivity – Covering tooth roots with gums protects from sensitivity.
- Prevent decay – Healthy gums protect tooth roots from decay-causing bacteria.
- Maintain nutrients – Tissues in gums contain nutrients that keep teeth strong.
- Improve aesthetics – Thick, healthy gums frame teeth beautifully.
- Lessen systemic inflammation – Gum disease is connected to inflammation throughout the body.
- Indicate health issues – Receding gums can signify issues like diabetes or nutrient deficiencies.
Prioritizing gum health helps prevent tooth and bone loss while keeping the mouth functioning properly.
Professional Treatments
Seeing a dentist is recommended if gums are receding or appear thin. A dentist can evaluate gum health and determine if professional treatment is needed. Some gum treatments a dentist may recommend include:
- Deep cleanings – Cleans beneath the gumline to remove plaque and tartar.
- Medications – Prescription antimicrobial mouthwashes or antibiotics to control infections.
- Gum grafts – Surgical grafting of gum tissue to cover exposed roots.
- Bone grafts – Builds up bone lost from gum disease.
- Guided tissue regeneration – Encourages regrowth of bone and gums.
- Soft tissue grafts – Transplants a thin layer of gum tissue over areas of recession.
Undergoing professional treatment helps restore gum health and thickness. Procedures are often done using local anesthetic and typically require proper aftercare while healing.
At-Home Treatment
While seeing a dentist is recommended, there are some at-home remedies that can help improve gum thickness:
Oil pulling
Oil pulling involves swishing oils like coconut, sesame seed, or sunflower oil around the mouth for up to 20 minutes to help remove bacteria from the mouth and soothe inflamed gums. Research indicates oil pulling may help reduce plaque and gingivitis to help gum health.
Aloe vera
Some studies show that applying aloe vera gel to gums may help reduce inflammation and swelling, allowing gums to regenerate more effectively. Use aloe vera specifically formulated for oral use.
Green tea
Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins that may help reduce gum inflammation when used as a mouthwash. Make a mouthwash using a steeped green tea bag or loose leaf green tea.
Proper oral hygiene
Gently brushing teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste helps remove harmful bacteria. Flossing once a day gets rid of plaque between teeth and underneath the gumline.
Quit smoking
Smoking cigarettes can reduce blood flow to the gums, increasing susceptibility to gum recession. Quitting smoking facilitates healthier gum tissue.
Rinse with saltwater
Rinsing daily with warm saltwater can help reduce inflammation and clean the gums. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in a cup of warm water. Swish gently around the mouth and spit.
Lifestyle Changes for Healthier Gums
Certain lifestyle habits can thin gums and negatively impact oral health over time. Making the following lifestyle adjustments may help gums stay thicker and stronger:
- Eat more vitamin C – Important for collagen production and healthy gums.
- Increase dietary calcium – Needed for bone density to support teeth.
- Improve oral hygiene habits – Brush and floss regularly to disrupt bacteria.
- Drink more water – Helps dilute bacteria accumulation.
- Reduce stress – High stress weakens the immune system and increases gum inflammation.
- Monitor medications – Ask your dentist or doctor if prescriptions could thin gums.
The mouth and gums need proper nutrition and care to stay healthy. Making a few simple lifestyle adjustments often goes a long way in gum thickness.
Foods That Promote Gum Health
Incorporating certain gum-healthy foods into the diet may also help thicken gums naturally:
Yogurt
The probiotics in yogurt help balance bacteria in the mouth, potentially lowering risk of gum disease.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens are rich in vitamin C to improve collagen production for healthy gums. They also contain calcium to strengthen bones around teeth.
Citrus fruits
Like leafy greens, citrus fruits contain vitamin C. They also have antioxidant properties to fight inflammation.
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds help scrub away plaque as they are abrasive but gentle. They also provide inflammation-reducing minerals.
Garlic
Garlic has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that may help control bacteria overgrowth in the mouth.
Shiitake mushrooms
A source of vitamin D, shiitake mushrooms may help prevent gum disease progression.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help counteract inflammatory gum diseases like gingivitis.
Vitamins and Supplements for Gum Support
Specific vitamins, minerals, and other supplements may also help thicken gums:
Coenzyme Q10
May enhance gum cell regrowth and counteract oral bacteria according to some studies. Common dose is 50 to 100mg per day.
Vitamin C
Necessary for collagen production and connective tissue formation. This helps repair damaged gums. Get 90mg or more daily.
Vitamin D
Helps with calcium absorption for strong bones around teeth. May counteract inflammation too. Try 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily.
Calcium
Crucial for jaw bone density and strength. Supplementing with 500mg one to two times daily is usually sufficient if dietary calcium is low.
Magnesium
Shown to promote periodontal health by aiding oral cell regeneration and tissue recovery. Take around 250 to 400mg daily.
Green tea extract
Standardized to 80 to 98 percent polyphenols, green tea antioxidants that reduce dental plaque and inflammation. Take 100 to 200mg daily.
Always check with a doctor before taking any supplements, especially if taking other medications or have underlying health conditions. Proper dosing is imperative.
When to See a Dentist or Doctor
It’s always smart to have a dentist evaluate any gum changes like thinning or recession. Book an appointment if gums bleed easily, feel tender, or have pulled away in any spot. See a dentist immediately if:
- Gums are receding unevenly.
- Multiple teeth feel loose, move, or shift.
- Any signs of infection like pain, swelling, or pus discharge are present.
- Sudden increased tooth sensitivity.
- Sores, ulcerations, or white/red patches appear on gums.
These can indicate serious health issues needing urgent dental care to prevent extensive damage. Thin gums may also be a sign of medical conditions like nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, or diabetes. Consulting a doctor can help determine if a systemic issue is contributing to gum changes. Addressing the underlying problem is key for improving gum thickness.
Preventing Further Gum Damage
While certain factors like aging naturally thin gums, following good oral hygiene and care routines can help prevent excessive recession or gum damage:
- Brush properly using gentle pressure and a soft-bristle brush.
- Avoid vigorous back-and-forth motions while brushing.
- Don’t brush too soon after acidic drinks or foods since enamel is softened.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or sooner if bristles appear frayed.
- Floss once daily, being cautious not to snap floss against the gums.
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria buildup.
- Quit smoking and other tobacco products.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and neutralize mouth acids.
Practicing an effective oral hygiene routine while minimizing gum irritation prevents plaque buildup that damages gum tissues. Getting regular dental cleanings and exams also helps keep gums healthy.
Thickening Gums: Treatment Timeline and Expectations
The time it takes to regenerate gum tissue depends on factors like the extent of recession, underlying health issues, and treatment approaches. Here is a general timeline:
| Treatment | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Deep dental cleanings | Results noticeable within days to weeks |
| Medications | May take several weeks to months |
| Gum grafts | 2 to 12 months for full healing |
| Tissue regeneration | 6 to 12 months to regenerate lost tissue |
| Lifestyle changes | Gradual improvement over months |
With diligent oral care and treatment, gums can rebound quickly. Mild cases may resolve in just weeks with proper dental cleanings and good oral hygiene. More significant recession requires several months for grafts, tissue regeneration, and bone grafting to fully restore lost gum tissues. Lifestyle adjustments like better diet, hydration, and ending smoking facilitate optimal gum thickness over time.
Be patient but persistent throughout the treatment process. Follow all of your dentist’s at-home care instructions carefully. Attend follow-up appointments as recommended to ensure gum healing is on track. With the right treatment plan, healthy gums that frame teeth beautifully are an achievable goal.
Conclusion
A variety of factors can cause gums to appear thin, inflamed or receded. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings help, but aggressive gum recession may need treatment. Seeing a dentist promptly can help diagnose the cause and severity of gum changes. Based on examination findings, the dentist will suggest treatment like deep cleanings, gum grafts or tissue regeneration. At-home remedies like oil pulling, aloe vera and antioxidants may support gum thickness too. With consistent care, most cases of gum recession can be improved for healthier teeth and smile aesthetics. Focus on gentle daily cleaning, quitting smoking, reducing stress, drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet with nutritious whole foods to help your gums stay thick and strong.