Gingivitis is one of the most common and treatable forms of gum disease. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, over half of all adults over 30 have it! The good news is that with proper care, gingivitis can be reversed. But how long will it take for your gums to stabilize? Continue reading to learn more about the factors that affect the healing process and what you can do to speed it up.
Factors that Affect Healing Time
Some factors can significantly affect how long it takes for your gingivitis to recover. Smoking and vaping, for example, can slow down the healing process and make your gums more vulnerable to infection. Other factors like age, overall health, and pre-existing conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes can also impact healing time. So, if any of these lifestyle factors apply to you and you’re concerned, talk to your dentist.
Early Detection Is Important
Another crucial component of your gingivitis recovery is how quickly you discover it. If you catch it early, your healing time after treatment will be much shorter. So, if you spot symptoms like mild gum swelling, redness, and bleeding while brushing, it might be a warning sign. The faster you act to fix the problem, the quicker you can heal! In many cases, with good oral care, gingivitis can begin to fade within 1 to 2 weeks.
Improve Your Oral Hygiene
To effectively heal gingivitis, you’ll need to step up your oral hygiene game. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash can make a huge difference! This thorough routine helps remove the plaque that’s irritating your gums and causing inflammation. If you stick to it, you should start seeing improvements in your gum health within a week or two.
Get Professional Treatment
If you haven’t had a professional cleaning in a while, a visit to your dentist is a good idea. Dental cleanings remove the hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing and flossing often miss. Once this tartar is removed, your gums will begin to heal much faster! After a professional cleaning, you may notice a reduction in symptoms within a few days, with full healing taking around 2 to 4 weeks.
With the right care, gingivitis can be reversed quickly, often within a few weeks. Staying consistent with your oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly will help ensure a healthy, pain-free smile. So, if you’re experiencing symptoms of gingivitis, the time to act is now!
About the Author
Gingivitis is curable, but you’ll need the right care from someone with experience. Dr. Aliana Henkin is a compassionate dentist who has been working with patients for nearly two decades. She earned her dental doctorate from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and continues to expand her skillset today, staying ahead of modern dentistry trends. Call (862) 260-4116 to schedule a consultation at Skyline Dental of Morristown or visit our website to explore other services.