How Is Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) Treated?

What Is Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts with gum inflammation and can get worse if not treated. Early gum disease is called gingivitis. If it progresses, it becomes periodontitis, which can damage the bone around your teeth. According to the CDC, gum disease is common but can be prevented and treated with proper care.

Symptoms and Stages of Gum Disease

Recognizing gum disease early helps prevent serious problems. Common symptoms include:

Red, swollen, or tender gums

Bleeding while brushing or flossing

Bad breath that does not go away

Receding gums

Loose or shifting teeth

Gum disease has two main stages:

Gingivitis: Gums are inflamed but teeth are still secure. This stage is reversible with good care.

Periodontitis: The infection spreads below the gum line. Bone and tissue can be damaged, and teeth may become loose.

Causes and Risk Factors

Gum disease starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which irritates gums. Several factors increase your risk, such as:

Poor oral hygiene

Smoking or tobacco use

Diabetes

Family history of gum disease

Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy)

Certain medications

Because these risks add up, regular dental care is important.

Diagnosis Methods

Dentists use several methods to check for gum disease. First, they examine your gums for redness, swelling, and bleeding. Next, they may use a small tool to measure the depth of pockets around your teeth. Deeper pockets can mean more severe disease. X-rays help show if bone loss has occurred. Early diagnosis makes treatment easier and more effective.

How Is Gum Disease Treated?

Gum disease treatment depends on how severe the problem is. Early stages can often be reversed. Advanced cases may need more involved care. Here are the main treatment options:

Professional Dental Treatments

Professional cleaning: Dentists remove plaque and tartar from teeth and gums. This is called scaling and root planing.

Deep cleaning: For deeper pockets, dentists clean below the gum line to remove bacteria.

At-Home Care

Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended

Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary snacks

Good home care supports professional treatment and helps prevent future problems.

Medications

Antibiotic gels or mouth rinses to reduce bacteria

Prescription toothpaste for sensitive gums

Oral antibiotics in some cases

Medications may be used along with cleaning to control infection.

Surgical Options

Flap surgery: The dentist lifts the gums to clean deeper areas and then stitches them back in place.

Bone or tissue grafts: These help rebuild areas damaged by gum disease.

Although surgery is not always needed, it can help save teeth in advanced cases.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

Preventing gum disease is easier than treating it. Try these tips:

Brush and floss every day

Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings

Quit smoking or using tobacco

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals

Manage health conditions like diabetes

Because healthy habits make a big difference, start them early and stick with them.

When to See a Dentist

If you notice any signs of gum disease, see a dentist right away. Early treatment can prevent tooth loss and other problems. Even if you have no symptoms, regular dental visits help catch issues before they get worse. Remember, a dentist for gum disease can offer the best advice for your needs.

Consult a dentist for personalized gum disease treatment and prevention advice.