Gum disease develops gradually and painlessly at first, which is why it is often called a silent condition. Understanding how treatment differs depending on severity helps explain why catching it early makes such a big difference to your long-term dental health.
Gingivitis is inflammation limited to the gum tissue, usually caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. At this stage, professional cleaning combined with improved brushing and flossing at home can fully reverse the condition within a few weeks, with no permanent damage to the bone or ligament.
If gingivitis is left untreated, the infection can spread below the gumline, breaking down the ligament and bone that anchor teeth in place. Unlike gingivitis, this bone loss cannot be reversed, though treatment can stop the disease from progressing further and protect the teeth that remain.
This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth root surface, making it harder for bacteria to reattach. It is usually performed under local anesthesia over one or more visits, depending on how many areas are affected.
For more severe periodontitis, options include pocket reduction surgery to reduce the space where bacteria collect, or bone and tissue grafting to help rebuild lost support around a tooth. These procedures are typically reserved for cases that do not respond fully to non-surgical treatment.
Gingivitis can be fully reversed with treatment and improved home care. Periodontitis cannot be cured in the sense of regrowing lost bone, but it can be effectively managed and stopped from progressing with proper treatment and maintenance.
Gingivitis typically causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing, without loosening teeth. Periodontitis often involves gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or visible pockets between teeth and gums, and requires a dental exam with measurements to confirm.
The area is numbed with local anesthesia beforehand, so the procedure itself should not be painful. Mild sensitivity or tenderness for a few days afterward is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
Speak to our team about gum disease treatment today.
Call 03 751 0245 WhatsApp 056 536 4536 Email Us