Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It typically develops in stages:
Gingivitis:
The early, mild stage - characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Periodontitis:
A more advanced stage - where the gums pull away from the teeth, bone loss occurs, and tooth loss becomes a real risk.
Important: At the gingivitis stage, gum disease is often reversible with improved oral hygiene and home care. However, once it progresses to periodontitis, professional dental treatment becomes essential.
If you’re in the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), there are steps you can take at home that may help reverse the condition.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Improve Your Brushing Technique
Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Use small circular motions and spend two full minutes each time.
Focus along the gumline where plaque tends to accumulate.
2. Floss Daily (No Exceptions!)
Flossing removes food particles and plaque between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Gently slide the floss between teeth and curve it around the base of each tooth.
3. Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash
Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, or essential oils can reduce bacteria.
Look for products labeled "antigingivitis" or "antiplaque."
4. Try Natural Remedies (as Supplements, Not Substitutes)
Oil pulling with coconut oil may help reduce bacteria.
Saltwater rinses can soothe inflamed gums.
Green tea consumption has been linked to healthier gums.
Note: Natural remedies can support but not replace proper hygiene and professional care if disease has progressed.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease. Quitting can significantly improve your gum health - and your overall health.
6. Eat a Gum-Healthy Diet
Focus on vitamin C-rich foods (citrus, peppers, broccoli) to promote gum healing.
Cut back on sugar and processed foods, which feed harmful bacteria.
You might think cosmetic dentists only focus on smile makeovers, veneers, or whitening - but healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile.
At Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta, we integrate periodontal care into all of our cosmetic and restorative treatments because a smile makeover isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about total oral health.
Professional treatments include:
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning below the gumline)
Laser therapy for periodontal pockets
Customized oral hygiene programs
Restorative options like implants or bridges after tooth loss
Full smile transformation plans that restore both function and beauty
Once gum disease is under control, you might be a candidate for cosmetic treatments to restore and enhance your smile.
Options include:
Dental implants to replace missing teeth
Porcelain veneers to improve tooth shape and color
Gum contouring to create a balanced, attractive gumline
Full smile makeovers to rebuild your smile after periodontal treatment
A beautiful, healthy smile can change your life - and we’re here to help you achieve it.
Kayla T.
“I tried to manage my gum disease at home, but after seeing the team here, I realized how important professional care is. They saved my smile!”
Kate K.
“If you're looking for compassionate, affordable care in Atlanta, you won’t find better.”
Frederick M.
“They worked with me on a treatment plan I could afford - and now my gums are healthy again. I even did a smile makeover after!”
📍 Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta
200 Galleria Parkway SE, Suite 1830, Atlanta, GA 30339
📞 (770) 955-0550
🕒 Open Monday–Friday | Emergency call support available
Whether you’re managing early signs at home or need expert help for advanced gum disease, we’re here to support your healthiest, most confident smile.
