Is Gum Disease Reversible?
If you’ve noticed that your gums look a little red, or brushed your teeth and noticed blood in the sink afterwards, you may have wondered what’s going on and if it’s a serious problem. Our team at Vitality Oral Health knows that the health of your gums is just as important as the health of your teeth, and we want you to pay attention to what your mouth may be telling you.
Noticing blood in the sink can sometimes be a sign of early gum disease. The good news is that for many people, early-stage gum disease is reversible with the right at-home care and professional support.
The 2 Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease isn’t a single condition: It progresses in stages. When you understand where you are in the process, you can take the right steps to get your oral health back on track.
The Early & Reversible Stage: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. It happens when plaque builds up on your teeth, causing your gums to become irritated and inflamed, sometimes even bleeding. At this stage, gingivitis is typically reversible with consistent, prompt care. Be on the lookout for:
- Gums that look red or puffy
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Bad breath that doesn’t seem to go away
The Advanced Stage: Periodontitis
If gingivitis isn’t addressed, it can progress to periodontitis. At this stage, the infection has moved below the gum line and is damaging the bone that holds your teeth in place. While the damage to the bone isn’t reversible, a dental professional can help you manage the disease and prevent it from getting worse.
How You Can Reverse Gingivitis at Home
For early-stage gum disease, you have the power to make a big difference right from your own bathroom. A few small changes to your daily habits can significantly improve your gum health.
Improve Your Daily Oral Care Routine
The most effective way to fight gingivitis is with a consistent cleaning routine. A helpful rule of thumb is to brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. It’s also important to floss at least once daily to clean the tight spaces your toothbrush can’t reach.
Healthy Habits for Healthy Gums
What you eat and drink also plays a role in your gum health. A balanced diet with fewer sugary foods and drinks can help to reduce plaque. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria throughout the day.
Professional Treatments for Gum Health
While your home care is the first line of defence, professional dental care is key to both reversing gingivitis and managing periodontitis. A dentist in Calgary can offer treatments suited to your specific needs.
Regular Dental Cleanings
A professional cleaning removes hardened plaque (also known as tartar) that you can’t remove with just a toothbrush. These hygiene appointments are an important part of your oral health routine and help prevent early signs of gingivitis.
Deep Cleanings for More Advanced Issues
For periodontitis, a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing may be the next step. This procedure cleans between the gums and teeth, down to the roots, removing plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line to help reduce infection and inflammation.
Gum Health Affects Your Whole Body
Ongoing inflammation from gum disease can be associated with other health conditions. By keeping your gums healthy, you take another step toward supporting your total health.
Your Partners in Gum Health
You don’t have to manage your gum health all on your own. A professional dental team can provide the compassionate care and guidance you need to maintain a healthy mouth for life.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During a visit, our dental team performs a gentle but thorough check of your teeth and gums. They will then discuss your oral health with you and explain any recommended treatments clearly and simply.
Schedule a Visit with Our Dental Team
Regular check-ups are a great way to catch gum disease early, when it’s easier to treat. If you have any questions or concerns about your gums, don’t wait to come see us. Schedule an appointment with our compassionate, caring team, and take a positive step towards gum health.