Gum Disease, Gingivitis & Periodontitis

What causes gum disease?

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Short answer

Gum disease is caused by plaque that hardens into tartar along and under the gumline, triggering an ongoing inflammatory response. Smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and poor oral hygiene all increase the risk of it developing or progressing faster.

About this answer: Prepared by the AllSmiles Dental Editorial Team for general information. Your dentist can advise you based on an examination and your individual needs.

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Can gum disease be reversed?

Gingivitis, the early stage, is fully reversible with professional cleaning and consistent oral hygiene. Periodontitis, however, involves permanent bone and tissue loss, so treatment at that stage focuses on stopping further damage rather than restoring what's already been lost.

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How is gum disease treated by a dentist?

Treatment typically starts with scaling and root planing, a deep clean that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. More advanced cases may need antibiotics or gum surgery to reduce pocket depth and allow the gums to reattach to the tooth.

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