Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health problems among adults. It starts quietly—with mild redness or bleeding when brushing—and can progress to more serious stages that threaten your teeth and overall health. If you’ve been told you have gum disease, you might wonder: Can my dentist cure it?
The answer depends on how advanced your gum disease is. While early stages can be reversed, more severe cases require long-term management. Let’s take a closer look at how your dentist can help restore your gum health and prevent future damage.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease develops when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along and under the gumline. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), irritating the gums and leading to inflammation.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily.
- Periodontitis: A more advanced form where bacteria destroy the supporting structures of the teeth, including bone.
The earlier the disease is caught, the easier it is to treat, and in some cases, even reverse.
Can Gingivitis Be Cured?
Gingivitis is completely reversible with professional dental care and good oral hygiene at home.
Your dentist can perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing can’t reach. They may also recommend antibacterial rinses or fluoride treatments to reduce bacteria and strengthen your gums.
At home, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and maintaining regular dental visits can prevent gingivitis from returning.
Can Periodontitis Be Cured?
Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, it cannot be fully “cured”—but it can be controlled. With the right treatment and ongoing maintenance, your dentist can stop the infection from getting worse and help preserve your teeth and gums.
Treatment typically includes:
- Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces, allowing gums to reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotic therapy: In some cases, topical or oral antibiotics are used to eliminate lingering bacteria.
- Surgical treatments: For severe cases, procedures like flap surgery, bone grafts, or tissue regeneration may be recommended to restore lost gum and bone tissue.
After treatment, most patients enter a periodontal maintenance program, which includes frequent cleanings and checkups to monitor gum health.
Your Role in Gum Disease Management
Even the best dental treatments won’t work without your commitment to daily care. You play a vital role in keeping gum disease under control.
Here are a few essential tips:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss or use interdental brushes every day.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
- Eat a balanced diet and avoid tobacco, which can worsen gum disease.
So, can your dentist cure gum disease? Gingivitis can be reversed, but advanced periodontitis requires ongoing management. With professional care, regular dental visits, and strong home hygiene habits, you can keep your gums healthy and prevent future damage. Early detection is key. If you notice bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away—your smile depends on it.
About the Practice
Get your gum health back on track with gum disease treatment at Smile Fitness Dental Centers here in Phoenix. Did you know that up to 80 percent of the population unknowingly has some form of gum disease? We can treat the illness with professional scaling or careful scraping of all affected tooth surfaces and gum pocket irrigation. If necessary, we even are able to surgically treat it to restore your mouth to good health. If you suspect you need treatment, schedule an appointment with us online or call (623) 303-0967.