Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is fully reversible with proper professional treatment and improved home care. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and tissue cannot be fully reversed—but it can be managed effectively. Early intervention is key, which is why regular dental checkups are so important for catching gum disease in its earliest, most treatable stage.

Prevention involves a combination of excellent home care and regular professional visits. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily to remove plaque between teeth, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended. Avoid tobacco products, eat a balanced diet, and manage conditions like diabetes that can increase your risk. Most importantly, visit us regularly for professional cleanings and checkups—we can remove hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing alone cannot.

Treatment depends on the severity of your condition. For early gum disease, we typically start with scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), which removes bacteria and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots. We may also prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses. For advanced cases, surgical options like pocket reduction, gum grafting, or bone grafting may be recommended. We'll create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

We prioritize your comfort during every procedure. Scaling and root planing is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the treatment. You may experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and is always available to address any concerns.

After initial gum therapy, most patients require periodontal maintenance visits every 3 to 4 months rather than the standard 6-month cleaning schedule. These more frequent visits allow us to monitor your gum health closely, remove any new bacterial buildup, and catch any signs of disease recurrence early. Over time, if your gum health stabilizes, we may be able to extend the interval between visits.