The goals of treatment are to prevent gum disease from permanently damaging tissues, control infection, and prevent tooth loss. For treatment to be effective, you will need to:

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• Keep your teeth clean by brushing two times a day and flossing one time a day.

• See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

• Avoid all tobacco use. Tobacco decreases your ability to fight infection, interferes with healing, and makes you more likely to have serious gum disease that results in tooth loss.

• Treatment for early-stage gum disease

• If you have early-stage gum disease ( gingivitis ), you may be able to reverse the damage to your gums: 

• Brush your teeth two times a day, in the morning and before bedtime.

• Floss your teeth one time a day.

• Use an antiseptic mouthwash, such as Listerine, or an antiplaque mouthwash.