Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common dental health concerns in the world, estimated to affect one out of every two adults. It can cause a variety of concerning symptoms, like gum inflammation, bleeding when brushing and flossing, and chronic bad breath, but the good news is that the earliest stage is 100 percent treatable. Read on to learn more about gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, and how it can be treated.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Many people experience the early symptoms of this infection due to a lapse in good at-home oral hygiene or one too many missed visits to the dentist for routine checkups and cleanings.
Some of the symptoms that can signal that gingivitis is present include:
- Bad breath that doesn’t seem to go away despite brushing.
- A build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth.
- Gums bleeding while brushing or flossing.
- Swollen or red gum tissue.
Can Gingivitis Be Healed?
Fortunately, gum disease can always be treated and managed, but it’s only in its earliest stage of gingivitis that the infection can actually be reversed and your gums can fully heal. Of course, in order for this to happen, professional treatment may be necessary. Depending on how far your gingivitis has progressed, your dentist may recommend any of the following methods of treatment:
- Better At-Home Oral Hygiene: In some cases, being better about brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing your mouth with alcohol-free mouthwash can help tackle symptoms of gingivitis.
- Scaling & Root Planing: Also known as a deep cleaning, scaling and root planing helps minimize the accumulation of plaque, tartar, and bacteria within the mouth, helping your body fight off the infection.
- Antibiotic Treatment: In some cases, antibiotic therapy may be recommended in combination with scaling and root planing to help fight off infection-causing oral bacteria.
How Long Does It Take to Treat Gingivitis?
How long it will take to reverse your symptoms and eliminate your oral infection will depend on how far it has progressed. The more you brush and floss following any professional treatments you receive, the more you’ll notice that your gums feel more comfortable and don’t bleed as much. Typically, people notice this change within about two weeks of good oral hygiene and (if necessary) professional treatment.
Although hearing that you have the early signs of gum disease can be scary, know that it’s completely treatable with the help and guidance of your dentist. Within just a couple of weeks of good at-home dental hygiene and other recommended treatments, you can help preserve the foundation of your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Mihran Asinmaz has been practicing dentistry for several years and has completed a rigorous General Practice Residency. His advanced training and post-graduate education has sharpened his skills and allow him to offer comprehensive dentistry under one roof, including multiple gum disease treatment options. For questions or to schedule an evaluation, visit his website or call 561-640-9200.