Last Updated on August 25, 2025
Receding gums can start subtly but may cause sensitivity, decay, and even tooth loss if ignored. The good news is you can take action to stop receding gums from getting worse by following a mix of proven habits and professional care. That means learning to brush and floss the right way, choosing toothpaste and rinses that support gum health, and getting professional dental cleanings regularly. Some people also need to use a night guard if they grind their teeth, and long-term gum health also depends on building healthier daily habits. You can try home remedies carefully and know when it’s time to see a dentist if the recession gets worse. These seven steps protect your smile for the long run.
Dentist-Approved Ways to Prevent Gum Recession
Let’s walk through seven ways you can protect your gums and keep the condition from progressing.
1. Brush and Floss the Right Way
Harsh scrubbing wears gums down rather than protecting them. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush angled toward the gumline, and brush gently in circular motions. Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline. This routine keeps bacteria from building up and helps reduce irritation that can lead to gum disease and tissue loss over time.
2. Choose Toothpaste and Rinses That Support Gum Health
Some oral care products are designed specifically to support sensitive gums. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and protect against decay, while stannous fluoride works to reduce bacteria and ease gum irritation and improve oral hygiene. Aloe-based toothpaste can also provide soothing relief for tender areas. Alcohol-free rinses are a good choice, as they fight bacteria without drying the mouth. Using these products daily creates a healthier environment that protects gums and slows further recession.
3. Get Professional Dental Cleanings Regularly
Even if you brush and floss carefully, plaque and tartar build up where tools can’t reach. Professional cleanings clear these deposits before they damage gums. For early gum disease, dentists may recommend scaling or root planning to help tissue reattach. Visiting every six months (or as recommended by your dentist) ensures your gums remain stable and recession doesn’t have a chance to worsen further.
4. Use a Night Guard if You Grind Your Teeth
Grinding and clenching create constant stress on your teeth and gums, often while you sleep. A custom night guard works as a cushion that absorbs pressure, preventing unnecessary wear on gum tissue. If you’ve noticed jaw soreness, headaches, or flat-looking teeth, it’s worth asking your dentist whether a night guard could protect your gums from hidden damage.
5. Build Healthier Daily Habits
Strong gums depend on everyday choices. A diet rich in vitamin C, vitamin D, and omega-3s strengthens tissues and reduces inflammation. Hydration supports saliva flow, which naturally protects teeth. Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol are equally important, since both slow healing and make gums more vulnerable to infection. With consistent habits, you reinforce the foundation for healthier gums.
6. Try Home Remedies Carefully (and Know Their Limits)
Natural methods can help soothe irritation but shouldn’t replace dental care. Saltwater rinses calm swelling, while aloe vera or turmeric may ease inflammation. Green tea and omega-3s also offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Oil pulling and essential oils remain popular but lack strong evidence. These remedies may feel supportive, but the real protection comes from proven daily hygiene and checkups.
7. See a Dentist if Recession Gets Worse
If you notice sensitivity, exposed roots, or gums that bleed often, don’t delay treatment. Gum recession usually worsens if left untreated, and professional care ensures timely solutions. Dentists can identify the cause, recommend maintenance, and stop the problem before it advances further. Early action prevents complicated procedures later and keeps your smile healthier for the future.
Conclusion
Protecting your gums isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency. Start by brushing and flossing the right way and choosing toothpaste and rinses that support gum health. Make it a priority to get professional dental cleanings regularly, and if you grind your teeth, consider using a night guard to reduce strain. Long-term results also depend on building healthier daily habits that strengthen your overall oral health. You can try home remedies carefully, but keep in mind they’re supportive at best. The most important step is to see a dentist if recession continues to progress, since professional guidance ensures timely treatment. The most effective way to stop receding gums from getting worse is by combining these seven strategies with timely professional care. For personalized support, Riverview Dental Arts can help guide you toward the right treatment.