Can periodontal scaling cure periodontitis?

Oct 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In the early stage of periodontitis, inflammation primarily affects the gingiva and superficial periodontal tissues, with shallow periodontal pockets and minimal alveolar bone loss. At this stage, periodontal scaling can eliminate inflammatory stimuli, allowing the gums to gradually return to health. Symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding disappear, periodontal pocket depth decreases, and tooth mobility improves. With consistent maintenance thereafter, long-term stability can be achieved, resulting in clinical cure.

In the early stages of periodontitis, the condition can often be controlled or even achieve clinical cure through periodontal scaling. However, in moderate to advanced stages, scaling alone is insufficient for complete resolution, and additional treatments along with long-term maintenance are required. If symptoms such as gum bleeding, bad breath, or increased tooth mobility occur, prompt medical attention is necessary.

In early periodontitis, inflammation primarily affects the gums and superficial periodontal tissues, with shallow periodontal pockets and minimal alveolar bone loss. At this stage, periodontal scaling effectively removes inflammatory irritants, allowing the gums to gradually recover. Symptoms such as redness, swelling, and bleeding subside, periodontal pocket depth decreases, and tooth mobility improves. With consistent follow-up care, long-term stability can be maintained, achieving clinical cure.

When periodontitis progresses to moderate or advanced stages, periodontal pockets deepen significantly, substantial alveolar bone loss occurs, and tooth mobility worsens, sometimes accompanied by complications such as periodontal abscesses. Scaling alone cannot regenerate lost alveolar bone or reverse severe periodontal tissue destruction. Additional periodontal surgical procedures are needed following initial scaling, and long-term ongoing management is essential to prevent recurrence.

Daily oral hygiene practices are crucial: brush teeth for at least three minutes each time, morning and night, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and the Bass brushing technique; clean between teeth daily with dental floss or interdental brushes. Visit a dental clinic every six months to one year for oral examinations and professional periodontal cleaning to monitor periodontal health regularly. Avoid smoking and reduce consumption of spicy or irritating foods to lower the risk of periodontitis recurrence.

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Can wisdom teeth cause periodontitis?

In general, whether wisdom teeth cause periodontitis depends on their growth condition. When wisdom teeth are properly positioned and can be cleaned effectively, they usually do not lead to periodontitis. However, if the wisdom teeth are impacted or difficult to clean, they may trigger periodontitis. To prevent periodontal problems related to wisdom teeth, it is recommended to maintain daily oral hygiene by brushing teeth morning and night, using dental floss or water flossers to clean interdental spaces, and undergoing regular dental check-ups.

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Will gum recession continue to progress?

If gingival recession is caused by factors such as periodontitis, long-term improper brushing techniques, or malaligned teeth and remains untreated, the inflammation will continuously destroy the gums and alveolar bone, leading to further gum recession and increased exposure of tooth roots. This may also be accompanied by problems such as tooth mobility and sensitivity, creating a vicious cycle that progressively worsens the recession.

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Can severe oral ulcers lead to periodontitis?

In general, whether severe oral ulcers lead to periodontitis depends on the relationship between the two conditions. Severe oral ulcers alone typically do not directly cause periodontitis; however, if severe ulcers are accompanied by poor oral hygiene and excessive bacterial growth, the risk of developing periodontitis may increase. To prevent mutual influence between oral ulcers and periodontitis, proper daily oral care is essential.

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Can teeth be extracted if there is periapical periodontitis?

In general, whether a tooth can be extracted in cases of apical periodontitis depends on the specific condition of the inflammation and the actual status of the tooth. Before extraction, patients should honestly inform the dentist about their history and treatment of apical periodontitis, and cooperate with oral and imaging examinations. After the extraction, follow medical instructions to firmly bite down on the gauze for hemostasis, and avoid rinsing, brushing, or touching the wound with the tongue immediately.