Many patients experiencing gum infection tend to wonder, “Can early gum disease be reversed?”
It’s usually painless and develops slowly, so you might not even know you have an infection until it’s too late.
In this quick blog, we’ll discuss the early stages of gum disease and oral habits that’ll keep your gums healthy.
Can early infection be reversed?
It’s possible to reverse the infection.
BUT:
It needs to be taken care of as quickly as possible before it gets worse.
Noticing the signs early is one of the most crucial steps to prevent further damage.
What causes gum disease?
Bacteria is constantly forming on your teeth, and they create toxins that damage your oral health.
Gum disease is the infection of gum tissues and bones surrounding teeth and is also known as periodontal disease.
What are the types of gum disease?
About 65 million American adults… This text opens a new tab to the American Academy of Periodontology website… have a form of gum disease.
The two main types of gum disease are:
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
Both are inflammations to the gum line, and we’ll discuss the difference between the two below.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease.
If your gums are:
- Red
- Swollen
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Sensitive
That’s a sure sign of gingivitis.
Other signs include consistent bad breath and tartar build-up.
It’s the first stage of gum disease, so you won’t suffer from tooth loss and you can prevent it from worsening.
Scaling and root planing is the first step in treating gingivitis.
- Scaling: Your dentist removes the plaque and tartar below the gum line
- Root planing: The root surface of your teeth is smoothed out to help gums reattach to your tooth
These periodontal cleanings will slow down the infection, so it’s essential to stay on top of your dental visits.
Good at-home oral habits will also help treat gingivitis, such as:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes a day
- Replacing toothbrushes once bristles become frayed (usually every 3-4 months)
- Flossing at least once a day
- Visiting your dentist for routine clean-ups
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease.
It’s more severe than gingivitis, and symptoms may include:
- Chronic bad breath
- Pus coming out of your gums
- Painful chewing or eating
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Receding gum line, causing teeth to look longer than normal
If you have periodontitis, you need to see a periodontist and talk about periodontal surgery. Taking immediate action is crucial to avoid tooth loss.
Surgical treatment will reshape and regenerate new healthy bones and gums.
The moral of the story:
Keep up your oral care at home in addition to seeing your dentist more to ensure healthier gums.
Are you in Tulsa, OK, and think you may have gum disease?
We’re here for you and will help answer any questions or concerns you may have about your gum health.
Are you noticing signs of gum disease?
The best way to reverse infection is by acting fast and taking care of your oral health. In addition to periodontal gum therapy, we also provide a variety of dental services to keep your teeth healthy, including:
We welcome all patients from the Tulsa area, including the neighboring communities of Broken Arrow, Sapulpa, and Claremore.
Bingham & Howarth Family Dentistry is more than your preferred dentist. We’re your family.
Or contact us by:
- Sending us a message
- Calling us at: (918) 481-4925
- Emailing us at: info@binghamandhowarth.com
