Can gum disease be reversed?

Gingivitis — the earliest stage — is fully reversible with improved oral hygiene and a professional cleaning. Early periodontitis can be controlled and stabilized with scaling and root planing, but the bone loss that has already occurred does not regenerate without surgical intervention. Advanced periodontitis requires ongoing management — it cannot be cured, only controlled.

Is a deep cleaning the same as scaling and root planing?

Yes. 'Deep cleaning' is the common term for scaling and root planing (SRP), a procedure that removes tartar and bacterial biofilm from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces. It is performed under local anesthetic, one or two quadrants at a time. It is not the same as a routine prophylaxis cleaning.

How much does gum disease treatment cost?

Scaling and root planing runs $150–$350 per quadrant ($600–$1,400 for all four quadrants) without insurance. Most PPO dental plans cover SRP at 80% under basic restorative after the deductible. Periodontal maintenance visits (every 3–4 months after SRP) cost $100–$200 per visit.

Gum Disease: Stages, Symptoms, and What Treatment Actually Involves

April 30, 2026

The Two Stages of Gum Disease

Stage 1: Gingivitis

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque buildup along the gumline. It is the only reversible stage of gum disease. Symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums and bleeding when brushing or flossing. No bone or connective tissue has been damaged. Treatment: improved brushing and flossing technique, professional cleaning, and in some cases an antiseptic rinse.

Stage 2: Periodontitis

When gingivitis is untreated, inflammation spreads below the gumline. Bacteria in deepening pockets trigger the immune response that destroys the bone and connective tissue holding teeth in place. This damage is irreversible. Periodontitis is classified by severity:

Stage I (Slight): 1–2mm of bone loss. Treated with scaling and root planing.
Stage II (Moderate): 2–3mm of bone loss. SRP plus more frequent maintenance.
Stage III (Severe): 3mm+ of bone loss, possible tooth mobility. May require surgical intervention.
Stage IV (Very Severe): Significant bone loss, tooth loss, complex rehabilitation needed.

Treatment by Stage

Scaling and Root Planing (SRP)

The first-line treatment for periodontitis. Your periodontist numbs the area and uses ultrasonic and hand instruments to remove calculus and biofilm from below the gumline, then smooths root surfaces. Done in sections (usually two quadrants per visit). Expect gum tenderness for a few days and sensitivity to hot/cold for 1–2 weeks.

Re-evaluation

6–8 weeks after SRP, your dentist measures pocket depths again. If pockets have reduced to 4mm or less, you transition to periodontal maintenance (cleanings every 3–4 months). If deeper pockets persist, surgical options are evaluated.

Periodontal Surgery

For advanced cases:

Flap surgery: Gum tissue is folded back for direct access to roots and bone. Irregular bone contours are smoothed to reduce pocket depth.
Bone grafting: Lost bone is rebuilt using donor bone or synthetic material.
Guided tissue regeneration: A membrane is placed to encourage bone and tissue regrowth.

The Link to Systemic Health

Research consistently shows associations between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Managing gum disease is not just a dental issue.

Find a dentist or periodontist near you on The Dentist Ranker if you have symptoms of gum disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can gum disease be reversed?: Gingivitis — the earliest stage — is fully reversible with improved oral hygiene and a professional cleaning. Early periodontitis can be controlled and stabilized with scaling and root planing, but the bone loss that has already occurred does not regenerate without surgical intervention. Advanced periodontitis requires ongoing management — it cannot be cured, only controlled.
Is a deep cleaning the same as scaling and root planing?: Yes. 'Deep cleaning' is the common term for scaling and root planing (SRP), a procedure that removes tartar and bacterial biofilm from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces. It is performed under local anesthetic, one or two quadrants at a time. It is not the same as a routine prophylaxis cleaning.
How much does gum disease treatment cost?: Scaling and root planing runs $150–$350 per quadrant ($600–$1,400 for all four quadrants) without insurance. Most PPO dental plans cover SRP at 80% under basic restorative after the deductible. Periodontal maintenance visits (every 3–4 months after SRP) cost $100–$200 per visit.