Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues among adults, yet many people don’t realize how serious it can become if left untreated. The good news? Gum disease can be treated—especially if caught early. At APlus Dentistry in Cumming, GA, we help patients restore their gum health every day through personalized care, advanced treatment techniques, and education.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about gum disease—what it is, how it’s treated, and what steps you can take to prevent it.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It starts with bacterial plaque that forms on your teeth and, if not removed, can lead to gum inflammation and eventually damage the bone that supports your teeth.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
1. Gingivitis
This is the earliest stage of gum disease. The gums become red, swollen, and may bleed during brushing or flossing. The good news? Gingivitis is completely reversible with proper dental care and hygiene.
2. Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This is a more serious form of gum disease that affects the bones and tissues holding your teeth in place. At this stage, gums can pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect bacteria, leading to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Several factors can contribute to gum disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy or menopause)
- Diabetes
- Certain medications
- Poor nutrition
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Gum disease can be silent in its early stages, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential. Some signs to watch out for include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession (pulling away from teeth)
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
- Pus around the gum line
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early intervention is the key to successful treatment.
Can Gum Disease Be Treated?
Yes—gum disease can absolutely be treated. The type of treatment depends on the stage of the disease.
Let’s break down the treatment options available:
Treatment for Gingivitis
If you’re in the early stages, a professional dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene may be all you need.
Professional Cleaning
At APlus Dentistry, we perform thorough cleanings to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This helps stop gingivitis in its tracks.
Improved Home Care
We guide you on the best brushing and flossing techniques to prevent plaque buildup. Most patients notice a big improvement in their gum health within a few weeks.
Treatment for Periodontitis
Once the disease has progressed to periodontitis, more involved treatment may be necessary.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
This is a non-surgical treatment where we remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gums and smooth the roots of your teeth. This allows the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
Antibiotic Therapy
Sometimes we use antibiotics (either topical or oral) to eliminate bacteria that may remain after deep cleaning. This helps reduce inflammation and speeds up healing.
Advanced Treatments for Severe Cases
In more advanced cases, surgical procedures may be required to restore oral health.
Flap Surgery
This involves lifting the gums to remove tartar from deep pockets and then securing them back in place to reduce the pocket depth.
Bone Grafts
If gum disease has caused bone loss, a bone graft can help regenerate the lost bone and support your teeth.
Guided Tissue Regeneration
This technique encourages regrowth of bone and gum tissue using special membranes placed between the bone and gum tissue.
Soft Tissue Grafts
For patients with gum recession, tissue grafts can be used to cover exposed roots and protect them from further damage.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The duration of treatment depends on how advanced the gum disease is. Mild cases may be resolved with one or two cleanings, while more advanced periodontitis may require multiple visits and ongoing maintenance.
What’s important is that gum disease doesn’t go away on its own—you must take action.
What Happens If Gum Disease Is Left Untreated?
Ignoring gum disease can lead to serious consequences:
- Permanent tooth loss
- Damage to the jawbone
- Gum infections that spread
- Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes complications
- Costly, extensive dental work later on
By treating gum disease early, you can avoid these issues and maintain a healthy, confident smile.
Can Gum Disease Come Back After Treatment?
Yes, gum disease can return if proper care isn’t maintained. That’s why at APlus Dentistry, we not only treat the condition but also teach you how to manage it for life.
We recommend:
- Visiting the dentist every 3–6 months
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing every day
- Using an antibacterial mouthwash
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Eating a balanced, low-sugar diet
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day
- Floss at least once daily
- Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse
- Replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and exams
- Avoid smoking and sugary foods
Remember, good oral health is not just about your teeth—it’s about your gums too.
Why Choose APlus Dentistry in Cumming, GA?
At APlus Dentistry, we take gum health seriously. Our team offers compassionate care using advanced dental technology to ensure the best results for our patients.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced dentists and hygienists with years of periodontal expertise
- Customized treatment plans based on your specific needs
- Gentle techniques and patient-first care
- Modern technology including digital X-rays and painless deep cleaning tools
- Convenient scheduling and follow-up care
We work with you every step of the way to stop gum disease, reverse damage where possible, and protect your smile for years to come.
Final Thoughts
So, can gum disease be treated? Absolutely. In fact, the earlier it’s caught, the easier and less invasive the treatment will be.
If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, don’t wait. Gum disease is treatable—but only if you take the first step.
At APlus Dentistry in Cumming, GA, we’re here to help you get your gum health back on track. Schedule your consultation today, and let’s work together to protect your smile for life.
