How to Treat Gum Disease

How to Treat Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common — and underestimated — oral health conditions. It can begin silently, but if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and systemic health issues.

If you’re wondering how to treat gum disease, you’re not alone. Many people seek reliable and medically approved answers that go beyond home remedies and quick fixes. In this article, we’ll explore what gum disease is, how it develops, and the most effective ways to treat and prevent it, both at home and professionally.

What Is Gum Disease and What Causes It?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is typically caused by the accumulation of plaque — a sticky, bacteria-filled film that forms on your teeth.

There are two main stages:

• Gingivitis: The earliest stage, marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. It is reversible with proper care.

• Periodontitis: The advanced stage where the infection spreads below the gum line, causing gum recession, bone loss, and potential tooth mobility or loss.

Common causes include:

• Poor oral hygiene

• Smoking or vaping

• Diabetes or immune disorders

• Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy or menopause)

• Genetic predisposition

• Poor-fitting dental appliances

• Certain medications that reduce saliva flow

Recognising and treating gum disease early is critical to preventing long-term damage.

🦷 If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, don’t ignore the signs — book a check-up at Gateway Dental Practice.

How to Treat Gum Disease at Home (in Early Stages)

If you’ve only just begun to notice symptoms like swollen gums or minor bleeding when brushing, you may still be in the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis). At this point, daily habits can make a major difference.

Here’s how to treat early gum disease at home:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush towards the gum line.

• Floss Once Daily: Floss removes plaque between teeth and below the gum line — areas your brush can’t reach.

• Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Chlorhexidine or essential oil-based rinses reduce bacteria and inflammation.

• Quit Smoking: Tobacco compromises blood flow to the gums and slows healing.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Nutrients like vitamin C and omega-3s support gum health.

Remember: These steps help with prevention and management in early stages. Once the disease progresses to periodontitis, home care is no longer enough.

🪥 Need support improving your oral hygiene routine? Ask about a hygiene visit with one of our professionals.

What Treatments Are Available for Advanced Gum Disease?

Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, professional treatment becomes essential. At Gateway Dental Practice, our expert periodontists offer a range of solutions tailored to the severity of your condition.

Non-surgical treatments:

• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)This procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth root to promote healing.

• Antibiotic TherapyLocal antibiotics (such as gels or chips placed under the gums) or oral antibiotics help control bacteria after deep cleaning.

Surgical treatments (in advanced cases):

• Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction)The gums are lifted back to clean deep tartar deposits and then sutured for better fit around the tooth.

• Gum GraftsUsed to restore receding gums and protect tooth roots.

• Bone Grafts & RegenerationTo rebuild areas of bone loss and stabilise teeth.

These treatments aim to reduce pocket depth, eliminate infection, and stop disease progression.

🔬 Our periodontists use magnification tools and gentle techniques to deliver precise and comfortable care.

Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?

Gingivitis — the earliest stage — can be reversed with consistent oral hygiene and professional cleanings. However, once it progresses to periodontitis, the damage becomes irreversible.

That said, you can manage periodontitis, stop its progression, and maintain the health of your gums and teeth for the long term.

Treatment goals include:

• Stopping gum inflammation and infection

• Stabilising any tooth mobility

• Preventing further bone or tooth loss

• Maintaining gum health with ongoing care

Regular follow-up appointments and proper at-home care are critical for long-term success.

📈 Reversal is possible in early stages — and damage control is achievable even later. Don’t wait.

How to Prevent Gum Disease from Coming Back

Gum disease is a chronic condition. That means even after successful treatment, it can return if not properly managed.

Here’s how to prevent recurrence:

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Every 3–6 months, especially for patients with a history of gum disease.

• Professional Hygiene Appointments: Routine cleanings remove the tartar that brushing cannot.

• Personalised Home Care Plan: Your dentist or hygienist can show you proper brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your mouth.

• Mouthguards for Bruxism: Teeth grinding can stress your gums and worsen inflammation.

• Diabetes & Health Control: Keep systemic conditions under control as they impact your immune response.

🛡️ Ask us about our long-term gum care programmes and membership plans.

Is Gum Disease Linked to Other Health Conditions?

Yes — research increasingly shows that gum disease is not just a dental issue, but also a systemic one. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body.

Health conditions linked to gum disease include:

• Heart Disease & Stroke

• Diabetes (worsened glucose control)

• Respiratory Infections

• Alzheimer’s Disease

• Pregnancy Complications (low birth weight, preterm labour)

Managing gum disease can have a positive ripple effect on your general health.

🧠 Oral health is a window to your overall health. Let us help protect both.

When Should You See a Dentist for Gum Disease?

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to book a dental appointment:

• Bleeding gums

• Swollen, red, or tender gums

• Persistent bad breath

• Loose or shifting teeth

• Gum recession

• Pain when chewing

Early intervention is key to avoiding more invasive treatments. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.

📞 If you’re in or near Burgess Hill, contact Gateway Dental Practice today for a full periodontal assessment.

What Are the Best Products to Use for Treating Gum Disease at Home?

When it comes to managing gum disease at home — particularly in its early stages like gingivitis — using the right products can make a significant difference. However, it's essential to understand that no product can replace professional treatment if the condition has progressed to periodontitis. That said, here are several tools and products that are dentist-recommended for gum health:

• Electric Toothbrushes: Studies show that electric toothbrushes remove more plaque than manual ones. Look for options with pressure sensors and soft bristles to avoid damaging inflamed gums.

• Interdental Brushes or Soft Picks: These are excellent for cleaning between teeth where plaque tends to accumulate.

• Antibacterial Mouthwash: Products containing chlorhexidine or essential oils (like Listerine) help reduce bacteria and inflammation. Note: chlorhexidine should be used under guidance, as long-term use may stain teeth.

• Fluoride Toothpaste with Zinc or Stannous Fluoride: These formulas can help reduce plaque, inflammation, and bad breath while strengthening enamel.

• Water Flossers: Devices like Waterpik can effectively flush out debris and bacteria from below the gum line, especially beneficial for patients with deeper pockets.

While these tools enhance at-home care, they are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive plan under the supervision of your dentist or hygienist.

🛒 Need advice on which products are right for your gum health? Ask your hygienist during your next visit to Gateway Dental Practice.

Can Gum Disease Spread to Other Teeth or People?

Yes — gum disease, particularly in its advanced stages, can indeed affect multiple teeth and, in rare cases, bacteria can even be transferred between people. Here’s how:

• Spread Between Teeth: Gum disease is often site-specific at first, meaning it may affect one or two teeth. But if the underlying causes — like plaque, tartar, or poor oral hygiene — aren’t addressed, the infection can spread to neighbouring areas. This is especially true if you don’t floss or if certain areas are harder to reach when brushing.

• Bacterial Transmission: The bacteria responsible for gum disease (such as Porphyromonas gingivalis) can be transferred through saliva — meaning that kissing or sharing utensils with someone who has active gum disease may increase your risk, particularly if you already have compromised oral health.

This doesn’t mean gum disease is contagious in the traditional sense, like the flu — but rather that the bacteria can be shared, and whether it causes disease depends on your own immune response and oral care habits.

🧬 Concerned about gum disease spreading or affecting your partner? Book a consultation together at Gateway Dental Practice — prevention is easier as a team.

Conclusion: How to Treat Gum Disease Effectively

Treating gum disease involves a blend of early detection, professional care, and good daily habits. Whether you're at the gingivitis stage or managing periodontitis, help is available — and outcomes can be life-changing.

At Gateway Dental Practice, our team of experienced clinicians and periodontists offer personalised gum treatments in a calm, patient-focused environment. We welcome patients from Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, Hurstpierpoint, and surrounding towns.

✨ Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Let’s protect your smile together.

📍 Book your gum health consultation today

📞 Call: +44 1444 232188

📧 Email: reception@gatewaydental.co.uk

🌐 www.gatewaydental.co.uk