Can gum disease be reversed without a dentist?

Gingivitis versus periodontitis

Cleveland Clinic describes periodontal disease as inflammation and infection of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth, and says it affects almost half of U.S. adults. Gingivitis is the earliest stage, with red, puffy gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing, no bone loss, and it is reversible. Periodontitis begins when bacteria reach below the gumline and affect supporting bone, and progresses to moderate and advanced stages with bone loss that can make teeth loose and lead to tooth loss.

Can you reverse gum disease?

It depends on the stage. Cleveland Clinic says gingivitis can be reversed with professional cleaning and good daily hygiene, and that periodontitis is not curable but is manageable: bone already lost generally is not regained, but treatment can reduce infection and rebuild some tissue. NIDCR says early gum disease from plaque build-up can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. ADA MouthHealthy says gingivitis is reversible and preventable.

What you can do at home

Cleveland Clinic's prevention advice is to brush two to three times a day, floss daily, consider an antibacterial mouthwash, avoid smoking and tobacco, and keep up with regular dental exams and cleanings. NIDCR says to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss or use an interdental brush, pick or water flosser, see the dentist regularly and quit all tobacco. These habits can reverse gingivitis and help manage periodontitis, but Cleveland Clinic says the article does not present home care as a treatment for established disease, which needs professional treatment.

Why you still need a dentist

NIDCR says plaque can harden into tartar, which only a professional cleaning removes. Cleveland Clinic says scaling and root planing, a deeper cleaning that removes plaque and bacteria below the gumline and smooths root surfaces, is recommended for mild periodontitis, usually over at least two visits under local anesthesia, and that pocket reduction surgery and other procedures are used for moderate to advanced disease. NIDCR says the main goal of periodontitis treatment is controlling infection, which may include deep cleaning, prescribed medication such as an oral rinse, and surgery for advanced cases, and that quitting tobacco can improve results.

Is gum disease contagious?

Cleveland Clinic says the bacteria can spread between people. Brief casual contact is unlikely to transmit it, but repeated, long-term saliva contact, such as through kissing, may raise the risk. It does not describe a need to avoid anyone, and the best protection is good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

Is gum disease hereditary?

Partly. Cleveland Clinic says genetics influence susceptibility, with a higher risk if parents, grandparents or siblings have had it, and that some people are more prone even with good hygiene. NIDCR lists genetics among the risk factors, along with smoking (the most significant), older age, diabetes, stress and hormonal changes. If it runs in your family, tell your dentist so they can check more often.

Signs it is time to see a dentist

Cleveland Clinic lists reddish or purplish gums, bleeding, soreness, bad breath, an unpleasant taste, pain when chewing, gum recession, loose teeth and changes in how the teeth fit together, and says pain is often absent in the early stages. NIDCR lists red, swollen or tender gums, easy bleeding, gums pulling away so teeth look longer, loose or sensitive teeth, pain when chewing and persistent bad breath. Do not wait for pain.

Questions to ask your dentist

If your gums bleed, these questions help you understand your stage and plan.

• Do I have gingivitis or periodontitis, and how do you know?
• Do I need a deep cleaning, and how many visits will it take?
• How should I change brushing, flossing or cleaning between my teeth?
• How often should I be seen to monitor my gums?
• Do my smoking, diabetes or family history change my plan?

Frequently asked questions