Precision Periodontics

How do I cure gum disease?

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is characterized by the inflammation of gum tissue with some bleeding while brushing and flossing. left untreated, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis which can then progress into advanced periodontitis, at which point irreparable damage can occur.

It is possible to have gingivitis without even realizing it. In the section, we will review some signs and symptoms of gum disease and how best to manage your treatment.

How do I know if I have gum disease?

Gum disease is actually quite common. If you have ever noticed a pink tinge in the sink after you brush and floss your teeth, your gums may be swollen and bleeding a little bit during your hygiene routine. If you have noticed any tenderness or swelling at your gum tissue, it is important to visit your dentist to get it under control before it develops into something worse.

Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis and advanced periodontitis and cause permanent damage to your gum tissue and jawbone structure.

Regular visits to your dental office for professional cleanings at least every six months will help make sure that any gum disease that may be developing is caught as soon as possible. If you do have gingivitis or periodontitis, your hygienist may want to see you more frequently than twice a year.

Treatment for gum disease

Your professional, by annual cleanings are the first step in the fight against gum disease! A simple professional cleaning may be all you need to get your gums back to a healthy state. If A standard cleaning will not do the trick, your dentist or hygienist may suggest you have a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing.

Scaling and root planing is a great way to eradicate infection in the gum pockets and help your mouth begin to heal. For this procedure, you will likely have to separate visits with half of your mouth done at each visit. Your hygienist will numb the area to be worked on with a local anesthetic so that they are able to reach well below the gum line into the gum pockets to remove tartar and bacteria buildup.

Orthodontia is another option that may be presented to you. Crooked teeth are harder to clean and having teeth in proper alignment is better for your overall health including how well you chew your food!

What can I do during my home oral care routine?

Once your mouth has been brought back to a healthy state, it is important to keep it that way with good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dental office for a professional cleaning. If you had a scaling and root planing, there’s a good chance that your dentist will want you to come in for a cleaning three or four times a year instead of just twice, this is not abnormal for patients with gum issues.

Adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine can also help ensure all bacteria is cleared out at each brushing. If you have any questions about your flossing or brushing techniques, it is important to bring these up to your dental hygienist. They are there to help you so don’t be embarrassed!

More on Gum Disease : Treatments for Gum Disease?

Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.

Contact us with any questions or to schedule a consultation at our Washington DC, Alexandria, or Reston office. We look forward to welcoming you.

Patients often use the word "cure" to mean getting rid of symptoms permanently, but with periodontal disease the better goal is control and long-term stability. Early inflammation can often be reversed, while more advanced disease usually requires ongoing maintenance to keep the infection from returning or progressing. That does not mean treatment is ineffective; it means gum health is something that has to be protected over time.

In practical terms, successful care usually combines professional treatment, improved home hygiene, and regular reevaluation. Once inflammation is reduced, the maintenance phase becomes just as important as the initial therapy. Patients who understand that rhythm of treatment and maintenance are better positioned to protect their results for the long term.

For search and patient usefulness, the strongest pages are usually the ones that answer the next practical question a patient would ask after reading the basics, rather than stopping at a short definition. That added detail helps the page serve as a better bridge between general education and a real treatment conversation.

Learn more about Periodontics

Treatments for Gum Disease?

What are signs of gum disease?