Gum disease (periodontitis): early signs and treatment
· Sarab Koyar Salehi, Licensed dental hygienist · 1 min read
Gum disease, or periodontitis, usually develops from untreated gum inflammation. It progresses slowly and rarely hurts at first, which is why many people find it late.
Gingivitis or periodontitis?
| Gingivitis | Periodontitis | |
|---|---|---|
| What is affected | Only the gums | The gums and what holds the tooth |
| Can be fully reversed | Yes | No, but it can be stopped |
| Typical signs | Red, bleeding gums | Gums pulling back, gaps, loose teeth |
Signs to watch for
- Gums that bleed or are swollen for a long time.
- Teeth that look longer because the gums have pulled back.
- New gaps between teeth.
- A bad taste or bad breath that does not go away.
- Teeth that feel loose.
How is it treated?
Treatment is about removing tartar and bacteria even below the gum line, and learning to clean in a way that keeps the disease away. After that you need regular check-ups. Smoking and diabetes make the disease harder to control, so it helps to mention them.
I help with treatment and advice for gum problems. If you need a dentist, I will tell you. Book a visit and we will make a plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can gum disease be cured?
The damage to what holds the tooth cannot be fully reversed, but the disease can be stopped and kept under control with treatment and good cleaning.
Does gum disease hurt?
Often not at first. That is why check-ups are important, even when nothing hurts.
This text is general information and does not replace an individual assessment. Book a visit if you have symptoms or questions.
Questions about your oral health?
