Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: 3 minutes
Gum disease can be reversed when it is caught at the gingivitis stage, before permanent damage to the supporting tissues and bone has occurred. Once it progresses to periodontitis, the damage cannot be fully reversed, but treatment can help control the disease and prevent further progression.
When Gum Disease Is Still Reversible
When gum disease is in its earliest stage, known as gingivitis, it can be reversed. At this stage, inflammation is limited to the gums and has not caused permanent loss of the tissues or bone supporting the teeth.
Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis and causes loss of supporting tissue and bone, that damage cannot be fully reversed. However, periodontal treatment can help control the disease and limit further damage.
How to Reverse Gingivitis
Gingivitis can be reversed by reducing the bacteria and buildup responsible for gum inflammation. As the source of the inflammation is brought under control, the gum tissue has a chance to heal.
A professional dental cleaning removes tartar that cannot be removed at home. Regular brushing and flossing then help reduce plaque buildup and allow the gums to heal.
This typically includes:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing or cleaning between the teeth daily
- Brushing gently along the gumline
- Keeping up with recommended professional cleanings
At Post Street Dental Group, we can examine your gums for plaque and tartar buildup, signs of inflammation, and areas that may be difficult to keep clean at home.
How Long Does Gingivitis Take to Improve?
The time it takes for gingivitis to improve varies depending on the amount of inflammation, plaque and tartar buildup, and daily oral hygiene.
Some people may notice less bleeding, redness, or swelling within days or weeks after professional cleaning and improved home care. More persistent inflammation may take longer to resolve.
If gum inflammation persists despite good oral hygiene and professional cleaning, an evaluation can help identify the possible cause.
Signs Your Gums Are Getting Healthier
As gingivitis improves, the gums should become less inflamed and bleed less easily. Changes may become noticeable during brushing and flossing as the tissues recover.
Signs of improvement may include:
- Less bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Reduced redness and swelling
- Firmer gum tissue
- Less tenderness
- Improved breath when plaque buildup contributed to bad breath
Bleeding that continues or returns frequently may indicate that inflammation is still present.
Get Your Gum Health Back on Track
If you’re concerned about bleeding, swollen, or receding gums, our team at Post Street Dental Group can identify the cause and discuss your options.
To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, call (415) 986-4534 or visit us at 490 Post St #520, San Francisco, CA 94102.
FAQs
Mild gingivitis may improve with thorough daily plaque removal, but tartar cannot be removed with brushing or flossing. A professional cleaning is generally recommended when tartar or persistent inflammation is present.
Mouthwash may help reduce plaque or gingivitis when used as directed, but it does not remove tartar and should not replace brushing, flossing, or professional dental care.
Gum tissue that has receded typically does not grow back on its own, even after gingivitis improves. Depending on the amount of recession, treatment may help protect exposed tooth roots or restore some lost gum tissue.