Periodontal disease is treated by removing plaque and hardened tartar from above and below the gumline, controlling bacterial infection, improving daily oral hygiene, and attending regular periodontal maintenance appointments.
Gingivitis can often be reversed with early treatment. Periodontitis usually cannot be reversed completely, but professional dental care can control the condition, protect supporting bone, and reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, tenderness, and loose teeth should never be ignored. Periodontal disease may progress without causing severe pain, which is why a professional gum examination is important.
At Dentists on Washington, patients can receive personalized periodontal disease treatment at convenient dental offices serving Philadelphia and Washington Crossing.
Key Takeaways About Periodontal Disease Treatment
- Gingivitis may be reversed with professional cleaning and consistent oral hygiene.
- Periodontitis requires professional treatment to prevent further gum and bone damage.
- Scaling and root planing is a common treatment for periodontal disease.
- Advanced cases may require gum surgery or regenerative treatment.
- Brushing and flossing cannot remove hardened tartar below the gumline.
- Periodontal maintenance helps prevent the infection from returning.
- Early diagnosis improves the chances of saving natural teeth.
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated by a Dentist?
The correct treatment for periodontal disease depends on the depth of the gum pockets, the amount of bone loss, the location of the infection, the patient’s health, and how the gums respond to initial treatment.
According to the American Dental Association, periodontal treatment may include nonsurgical or surgical procedures based on the severity of the condition.
Complete Periodontal Examination and Diagnosis
Periodontal disease treatment begins with a complete dental and gum examination.
The dentist or dental hygienist checks for:
- Bleeding gums
- Gum inflammation
- Gum recession
- Hardened tartar
- Loose teeth
- Deep periodontal pockets
- Changes in the patient’s bite
- Bone loss around the teeth
A periodontal probe may be used to measure the spaces between the teeth and gums. Healthy gum pockets are generally between one and three millimeters. Deeper pockets may indicate periodontal disease.
Dental X-rays may also be taken to determine whether the infection has damaged the bone supporting the teeth.
The dentist may review other risk factors, including smoking, diabetes, medications, previous gum treatment, and oral hygiene habits.
Professional Dental Cleaning for Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. It causes inflammation, redness, tenderness, and bleeding but does not normally involve permanent bone loss.
Treatment usually includes a professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from around the gumline.
Patients must maintain the results by brushing twice daily and cleaning between their teeth.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that gingivitis can usually be treated through professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
Patients can support healthy gums through regular preventive dental care.
Scaling and Root Planing for Periodontitis
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is one of the most common nonsurgical treatments for periodontitis.
Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar from above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots and removes bacterial deposits that contribute to gum inflammation.
Smoothing the root surfaces also helps the gums heal and reattach more closely to the teeth.
The procedure may be completed in sections over one or more appointments. Local anesthetic may be used to improve patient comfort.
After treatment, some patients may experience temporary sensitivity, tenderness, or mild bleeding while the gums begin healing.
Learn more about scaling and root planing at Dentists on Washington.
Periodontal Re-Evaluation After Deep Cleaning
A follow-up examination is normally scheduled after scaling and root planing.
During the re-evaluation, the dentist may check:
- Periodontal pocket depth
- Gum inflammation
- Bleeding around the teeth
- Plaque levels
- Gum attachment
- Tooth stability
- Response to treatment
Some periodontal pockets may become shallower after deep cleaning. However, areas that remain deep or continue to bleed may require additional periodontal treatment.
Medications Used for Periodontal Disease
A dentist may recommend antimicrobial medication in selected cases of periodontal disease.
Treatment may include a localized antibacterial product placed inside a periodontal pocket or medication prescribed for a specific infection.
However, antibiotics do not remove the plaque and hardened tartar attached to the tooth roots. They should not be considered a replacement for scaling, root planing, or professional periodontal care.
Patients should never use leftover antibiotics or attempt to treat periodontal disease without a professional diagnosis.
Advanced Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
Advanced periodontal disease may require additional treatment when deep gum pockets, severe inflammation, bone loss, gum recession, or infection remain after nonsurgical care.
Periodontal Flap Surgery
Periodontal flap surgery allows the dental professional to access deeper areas around the tooth roots.
During the procedure, the gum tissue is gently moved away from the teeth so plaque, tartar, and infected tissue can be removed. The gums are then repositioned to reduce pocket depth and make the area easier to clean.
Bone Grafting and Regenerative Treatment
Periodontal disease can destroy the bone supporting the teeth.
In selected cases, bone grafting, membranes, or other regenerative materials may be used to support the repair of damaged periodontal structures.
The suitability of regenerative treatment depends on the location and pattern of bone loss.
Gum Grafting for Receding Gums
Gum recession exposes the tooth roots and may increase sensitivity, decay risk, and cosmetic concerns.
A gum graft may be recommended to cover exposed roots, strengthen thin gum tissue, and reduce the risk of further recession.
Tooth Extraction for Severely Damaged Teeth
A tooth may need to be removed when periodontal disease has destroyed too much of its supporting bone.
Extraction may also be considered when the tooth is severely loose, painful, infected, or affecting surrounding teeth.
Early periodontal treatment provides a better opportunity to preserve natural teeth.
Patients can also learn about advances in periodontal disease treatment.
Periodontal Disease Treatment by Stage
| Periodontal Condition | Common Symptoms | Typical Treatment | Treatment Goal |
| Gingivitis | Red, swollen, or bleeding gums without bone loss | Professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene | Reverse inflammation and prevent periodontitis |
| Early Periodontitis | Gum pockets and early attachment or bone loss | Scaling and root planing followed by re-evaluation | Control infection and prevent progression |
| Moderate Periodontitis | Deeper pockets, gum recession, bleeding, and bone loss | Deep cleaning, additional treatment, and maintenance | Stabilize the gums and supporting structures |
| Advanced Periodontitis | Severe bone loss, loose teeth, and chewing difficulties | Surgical, regenerative, restorative, or extraction treatment | Preserve function and protect remaining teeth |
How to Support Periodontal Disease Treatment at Home
Professional treatment removes plaque and tartar that cannot be eliminated through regular brushing.
Home care helps maintain the results and control the bacterial plaque that begins forming again after treatment.
Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Brush gently along the gumline without applying excessive pressure. Aggressive brushing can irritate the gums and contribute to gum recession.
An electric toothbrush may also help some patients improve plaque removal.
Clean Between Your Teeth Every Day
A toothbrush cannot effectively clean every surface between the teeth.
Patients may use:
- Dental floss
- Interdental brushes
- Water flossers
- Floss threaders
- Dentist-recommended interdental cleaning tools
The most suitable option depends on tooth spacing, restorations, gum condition, and the patient’s ability to use the device correctly.
Use Mouthwash as Recommended
An antimicrobial mouthwash may be recommended as part of a periodontal treatment plan.
Mouthwash may help reduce bacteria and support plaque control. However, it cannot remove hardened tartar, clean deep periodontal pockets, or repair bone loss.
It should be used alongside professional treatment, brushing, and interdental cleaning.
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking is a major risk factor for periodontal disease.
It may:
- Increase the severity of gum disease
- Reduce blood flow to the gums
- Hide common symptoms such as bleeding
- Delay healing
- Reduce the success of periodontal treatment
- Increase the risk of tooth loss
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research identifies smoking as an important periodontal disease risk factor.
Manage Diabetes Properly
Diabetes and periodontal disease can affect each other.
Poorly controlled blood sugar may increase the severity of gum infection and make healing more difficult. Patients with diabetes should work with their dentist and healthcare provider to manage their oral and overall health.
Attend Periodontal Maintenance Appointments
Patients who have received treatment for periodontitis may need dental cleanings more frequently than patients without a history of gum disease.
The maintenance schedule may depend on:
- Current periodontal pocket depth
- Gum bleeding
- Plaque buildup
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Previous bone loss
- Treatment response
- Oral hygiene habits
Some patients may require periodontal maintenance every three or four months.
Can Periodontal Disease Be Treated Without a Dentist?
Periodontal disease should not be treated without professional dental care.
Improving brushing and flossing may reduce early gum inflammation, but hardened tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush, mouthwash, saltwater rinse, or home dental tool.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tartar must be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Attempting to scrape tartar at home may damage the gums, scratch tooth surfaces, increase infection risk, and delay proper treatment.
How Long Does Periodontal Disease Treatment Take?
The treatment timeline depends on the severity of the disease and the number of affected areas.
Gingivitis may improve after a professional cleaning and several weeks of consistent oral hygiene.
Scaling and root planing may be completed during one appointment or divided into multiple visits. The gums are then given time to heal before a periodontal re-evaluation.
Advanced periodontal disease may require several stages of treatment, including:
- Deep cleaning
- Healing and re-evaluation
- Periodontal surgery
- Regenerative treatment
- Restorative dental care
- Ongoing periodontal maintenance
A dentist can provide a more accurate treatment timeline after examining the gums and reviewing dental X-rays.
What Happens If Periodontal Disease Is Not Treated?
Untreated periodontal disease may continue damaging the gums, connective tissues, and supporting bone.
Possible complications include:
- Progressive gum recession
- Persistent bad breath
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Gum abscesses
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the bite
- Difficulty chewing
- Permanent bone loss
- Tooth loss
The condition does not normally disappear without treatment. Delaying care may make treatment more complicated and reduce the possibility of saving affected teeth.
When Should You Seek Periodontal Disease Treatment?
Schedule a periodontal evaluation when you experience:
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Red or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum tenderness
- Receding gums
- Teeth that look longer
- New spaces between teeth
- Pus around the gumline
- Pain while chewing
- Loose permanent teeth
- Changes in the way the teeth fit together
Periodontal disease may become advanced before noticeable pain develops. Regular dental examinations are therefore important even when the teeth and gums feel comfortable.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Philadelphia and Washington Crossing
Dentists on Washington provides periodontal evaluations, scaling and root planing, preventive dental care, follow-up examinations, and ongoing periodontal maintenance.
The Philadelphia dental office is convenient for patients from South Philadelphia, Center City, Bella Vista, Queen Village, Passyunk Square, Pennsport, and surrounding communities.
Patients may visit the Philadelphia dental office or the Washington Crossing dental office.
Treatment recommendations are based on each patient’s gum health, periodontal measurements, bone condition, medical history, and treatment goals.
Schedule an appointment with Dentists on Washington if you are experiencing bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth.
Protect Your Gums With Professional Periodontal Care
Periodontal disease is easier to manage when it is diagnosed early.
Professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, improved daily oral hygiene, smoking cessation, diabetes management, and regular periodontal maintenance can help control infection and protect the structures supporting the teeth.
Patients experiencing bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth should not wait for the condition to become painful.
Contact Dentists on Washington to receive a professional periodontal evaluation and a treatment plan based on your individual oral health needs.
Schedule your periodontal consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease Treatment
What Is the Best Treatment for Periodontal Disease?
The best treatment depends on the stage of the disease. Gingivitis may be treated with a professional dental cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Periodontitis commonly requires scaling and root planing. Advanced cases may require periodontal surgery, gum grafting, bone regeneration, or extraction.
Can Periodontal Disease Be Cured Completely?
Gingivitis can often be reversed because it has not yet caused permanent bone loss. Periodontitis cannot normally be reversed completely. However, professional treatment and regular periodontal maintenance can control the infection, prevent further damage, and protect the remaining teeth. The CDC periodontal disease guide provides additional information about gum disease progression.
Can I Treat Periodontal Disease at Home?
Home care can support periodontal health but cannot replace professional treatment. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash cannot remove hardened tartar below the gumline. Patients with deep pockets, bone loss, gum recession, or loose teeth should schedule a professional periodontal examination.
Does Scaling and Root Planing Cure Gum Disease?
Scaling and root planing removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits from the tooth roots. It helps control periodontal infection, reduce inflammation, and support gum healing. However, patients must continue brushing, interdental cleaning, and periodontal maintenance to prevent the disease from returning.
Is Periodontal Deep Cleaning Painful?
Local anesthetic may be used during deep cleaning to reduce discomfort. Some patients experience temporary gum tenderness, sensitivity, or mild bleeding after treatment. The level of discomfort depends on the amount of inflammation, the depth of the gum pockets, and the number of areas treated.
How Long Does It Take for Gums to Heal After Deep Cleaning?
Initial tenderness may improve within several days. The gum tissue may continue healing for several weeks. A follow-up examination allows the dentist to measure pocket depth, bleeding, inflammation, and the overall response to treatment.
Can Mouthwash Cure Periodontal Disease?
Mouthwash cannot cure periodontal disease by itself. It may help reduce bacteria and improve plaque control, but it cannot remove hardened tartar or repair damaged bone. Mouthwash should only be used as part of a complete periodontal care plan.
Do Antibiotics Cure Periodontal Disease?
Antibiotics may support treatment in selected cases, but they cannot remove plaque and tartar from tooth roots. Professional cleaning remains necessary. The dentist will decide whether antibiotics are appropriate based on the severity and location of the infection.
Can Loose Teeth From Periodontal Disease Be Saved?
Some loose teeth can be saved when enough supporting bone remains. The outcome depends on the amount of bone loss, tooth mobility, infection, bite pressure, root condition, and response to periodontal treatment. Early diagnosis provides the best chance of preserving the tooth.
Can Receding Gums Grow Back After Periodontal Treatment?
Receded gum tissue does not normally grow back on its own. Periodontal treatment can stop further damage, reduce inflammation, and protect exposed tooth roots. Gum grafting may be recommended when additional gum tissue is needed.
What Is the Fastest Way to Treat Periodontal Disease?
The fastest effective approach is to schedule a professional periodontal examination as soon as symptoms appear. The dentist can determine whether the patient needs a standard cleaning, scaling and root planing, medication, surgery, or another form of treatment. Home remedies may delay appropriate care.
How Often Do You Need Periodontal Maintenance?
Many patients with a history of periodontitis require periodontal maintenance every three or four months. The correct frequency depends on plaque buildup, pocket depth, gum bleeding, smoking, diabetes, bone loss, and the patient’s response to treatment. Regular preventive dental care helps maintain periodontal health.
When Should I See a Dentist for Bleeding Gums?
Schedule a dental examination when bleeding gums occur repeatedly, continue for more than a few days, or are accompanied by swelling, bad breath, gum recession, pain, or loose teeth. Bleeding may be an early sign of gingivitis or a symptom of more advanced periodontal disease. A professional examination can identify the cause and determine the appropriate treatment.
