Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues, affecting millions of people each year. It often starts quietly, with symptoms like bleeding gums or mild irritation, but it can progress into a much more serious condition if left untreated. Many patients wonder whether gum disease can truly be cured—and if their dentist can help restore their gum health. The answer depends on the stage of the disease, but in most cases, your dentist can successfully treat and manage it.
Early Gum Disease Can Be Managed
In its earliest stage, called gingivitis, gum disease can be managed. Gingivitis occurs when plaque buildup leads to inflammation, redness, and bleeding of the gums. Fortunately, this stage does not involve permanent damage. Your dentist can manage gingivitis with professional cleanings, proper oral hygiene guidance, and routine checkups. Most patients see significant improvement within a few weeks of consistent care and good at-home habits like brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
Advanced Gum Disease Requires Ongoing Care
Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, it cannot be fully reversed—but it can be controlled. Periodontitis involves deeper inflammation, gum recession, and the breakdown of the bone supporting your teeth. At this stage, your dentist or periodontist can stop the disease from worsening through specialized treatments. Scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning procedure—removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. Additional therapies, such as localized antibiotics or laser treatments, may also be used to reduce infection and promote healing.
Although the damage caused by periodontitis cannot be undone naturally, these treatments help stabilize your gums and prevent further bone or tissue loss.
Surgery Can Restore Gum and Bone Health
In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend periodontal surgery. Procedures like gum grafting, pocket reduction surgery, or bone regeneration can restore lost tissue, strengthen support around the teeth, and improve oral function. While surgery doesn’t “cure” gum disease, it plays an important role in managing long-term health and preventing tooth loss.
Your Dentist is Key to Long-Term Gum Health
Whether you’re dealing with early or advanced gum disease, your dentist plays a critical role in treatment. However, your daily habits are just as important. Consistent brushing, flossing, quitting smoking, and attending regular checkups make it possible to maintain gum health long-term.
Gum disease may not always be curable, but with the help of your dentist, it is absolutely treatable—and manageable for life.
About the Author
Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil has practiced dentistry for an impressive 30-plus years. She earned her dental doctorate at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and worked in San Antonio for awhile before returning home to Fort Worth, where she opened the office in 1993. Dr. Neil has completed a great deal of continuing education to stay current in her field. She is a Fellow of the International Academy of Implant Dentistry and has taken various SPEAR workshops and study clubs since 2001. If you’re in need of treatment for gum disease, Dr. Neil and our team can help! Schedule an appointment online or call (817) 738-3368.