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Periodontitis is a serious form of gum disease that can lead to long-term damage if left untreated.
Early intervention, such as a routine teeth cleaning, is key to preserving your oral health and preventing gum disease progression.
In this blog, we explore whether periodontitis is reversible, the signs to watch for, and the treatments available to manage this advanced form of gum disease.
Periodontitis is not reversible, but it can be managed with professional treatments like scaling and root planing to prevent further damage and preserve oral health.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that affects the gum tissue and bone supporting your teeth.
It develops from untreated gingivitis, causing inflammation and infection that can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth instability.
Signs of Periodontitis
Look out for these warning signs to prevent severe gum disease:
- Bleeding gums: Especially during brushing or flossing.
- Bad breath: Persistent despite regular brushing.
- Gum recession: Gums pulling away from teeth.
- Loose teeth: Teeth shifting or feeling unstable.
- Gum inflammation: Swollen, red, or tender gums.
- Tartar buildup: Visible deposits along the gum line.
Gum Disease Treatments
When caught early, gum disease can be treated with a non-surgical treatment called scaling and root planing.
This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from beneath the gum line. Root planing smooths the tooth root surface so that bacteria cannot adhere to the tooth surface.
Learn more about the procedure in these articles: Scaling and Root Planing Procedure: What Patients Can Expect and 8 FAQs About Scaling and Root Planing.
Surgical Treatments
If gum disease is advanced and has resulted in bone loss or severe gum recession, a referral to a periodontist will be necessary. They may perform these surgical treatments:
- Gum graft: A surgical option for severe gum recession to restore soft tissue.
- Bone graft: Used in cases of bone loss to promote bone regeneration.
- Osseous surgery: For advanced periodontitis, removing damaged bone and tissue.
If you leave periodontitis untreated it can result in:
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
- Chronic inflammation
- Heart disease risk
How to Prevent Periodontitis
Healthy habits can reduce the risk of gum disease:
- Brush twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily: Clean between teeth to remove plaque and food particles.
- Eat a balanced diet: Limit sugary foods and eat nutrient-rich options.
- Avoid smoking: Tobacco use can increase gum disease risk.
- Schedule regular dental checkups: Professional cleanings and regular dental exams can catch issues early.
Book a Dental Exam in Buffalo Grove, IL
Do not wait for gum disease to worsen!
Call us today at (847) 215-1511 to schedule a comprehensive dental exam at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, located at 195 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 160.
Our expert team offers professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, and personalized gum disease therapy
If gum disease is caught in the very early stages (gingivitis) it can be managed with good oral hygiene practices. However, once the disease advances, professional treatments like scaling and root planing become necessary to prevent further damage.
No, but you can prevent it from progressing. You can’t reverse damage to the soft tissues or bone. However, if you catch gum disease in the early stages, you can take steps to prevent it from getting worse. Regular checkups and professional cleanings play a crucial role in managing gum disease.
