Can You Eradicate Gum Disease?
The answer to that question is that it depends on whether or not it has reached its most serious stage. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, but when gingivitis is left untreated it can progress to periodontitis, which is the severest stage of gum disease. Once it has reached this stage, you can treat, but not eradicate, periodontitis. The best thing to do is try to avoid developing gum disease all together by performing proper oral hygiene and attending your bi-annual dental checkup and cleaning appointments. However, if you do develop gingivitis, early treatment is a must.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums and is generally the first stage of gum disease. It can, and often does, precede to periodontitis (full-blown gum disease) but that is not a given. You can have gingivitis without it progressing to periodontitis, especially since gingivitis is reversible.
When bacterial plaque builds up on your teeth and along your gum line, the bacteria creates acids that irritate and inflame your gingival tissue (gums). At this stage, gingivitis can be reversed because no deeper tissue, or bone damage has occurred.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the major cause of tooth loss. This is because as it progresses, gum tissue, periodontal ligaments, and bone are destroyed and can no longer hold the teeth in place. When Gingivitis is left untreated the gums will eventually begin to recede, forming periodontal pockets, small spaces between the teeth and gums that can collect bacteria, plaque and other debris, and which can become infected. As the pockets become deeper, the connective tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place begin to break down leading to tooth loss.