In the US, nearly 50% of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease, yet most think a simple mouthwash fixes it — most bacterias that cause infection are deeply rooted below the gumline, not just on the surface. To truly get rid of gum infection, you need a combination of professional dental treatment and consistent at-home care. This guide covers exactly what works, step by step.
Quick Answer
To get rid of gum infection, you need a professional deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. This removes bacteria from pockets deeper than 3 mm. Your dentist may also place antibiotic microspheres like Arestin directly into the pockets. At home, brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss in a C-shape, and use chlorhexidine mouthwash for up to 14 days. Full healing takes 2 to 4 weeks. Without treatment, the infection will not go away.
What Does It Mean to Get Rid of Gum Infection?
The difference between gingivitis and periodontitis
Gingivitis is reversible. It causes red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush. Periodontitis is not reversible. Once the bone and attachment holding your teeth are lost, they cannot grow back on their own. Get rid of gum infection in clinical practice means stopping the disease from getting worse. It does not mean curing past damage. Bacteria hide in pockets deeper than 3 mm, where brushing and flossing cannot reach. That is why professional treatment is essential.
Why gum infection won't resolve on its own
Gum infection is caused by bacterial biofilm that sticks to tooth roots below the gumline. Your immune system tries to fight it, but the bacteria release toxins that destroy tissue and bone. Without intervention, the pockets get deeper. The infection spreads. Teeth may loosen. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 70% of adults over 65 have periodontitis. Early treatment is the only way to stop it.
How to Get Rid of Gum Infection with Professional Dental Treatment
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
Scaling removes calculus above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the root surfaces to make it harder for bacteria to reattach. This is the first-line treatment for periodontitis. Your dentist will numb the area with local anesthetic. The procedure usually takes one to two visits. Studies show that scaling and root planing reduces pocket depth by 1 to 2 mm on average.
Laser therapy for gum infection
Laser therapy uses a dental laser to remove infected tissue and kill bacteria. It causes less bleeding and faster healing than traditional surgery. Many patients report less pain afterward. However, laser treatment is not always covered by insurance. It works best for moderate pocket depths of 4 to 6 mm.
Antibiotic treatments: topical vs. oral
Topical antibiotics like Arestin (minocycline microspheres) are placed directly into gum pockets after scaling. They release medication for up to 14 days. This targets the infection exactly where it lives. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline or metronidazole are reserved for aggressive or recurrent cases. They work throughout the body but can cause side effects like stomach upset.
Surgical options: flap surgery and bone grafting
If pockets are deeper than 6 mm, flap surgery may be needed. The dentist lifts the gum tissue to clean the root directly. If bone has been lost, a bone graft can help regenerate it. These procedures are done under local anesthesia. Recovery takes one to two weeks. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, surgery has a success rate of over 85% for stopping disease progression.
Comparison of Treatments to Get Rid of Gum Infection: Home vs. Professional
| Treatment | Cost Range | Success Rate | Time to See Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scaling and root planing | $200–$400 per quadrant | 80–90% | 2–4 weeks |
| Laser therapy | $500–$1,500 per session | 85–95% | 1–2 weeks |
| Topical antibiotics (Arestin) | $75–$150 per site | 70–85% | 2 weeks |
| At-home care only | $20–$50 per month | 30–50% | 4–6 weeks |
Professional treatments have much higher success rates. At-home care alone cannot remove bacteria from deep pockets.
At-Home Steps to Get Rid of Gum Infection Between Dental Visits
Best toothbrush and toothpaste for gum health
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can damage gum tissue. An electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor is ideal because it alerts you when you brush too hard. Look for toothpaste with fluoride and stannous fluoride, which fights bacteria. Brush for two full minutes twice a day.
How to floss correctly when gums are infected
Floss in a C-shape around each tooth. Slide the floss gently below the gumline. Do not snap the floss, as that can hurt your gums. Floss once a day, preferably at night. If your gums bleed at first, keep flossing — the bleeding should stop within a week as the infection improves.
Antiseptic mouthwash — which one works best for gum infection
Chlorhexidine mouthwash (0.12%) is the gold standard. It kills bacteria and reduces plaque. However, you should not use it for more than 14 days at a time because it can stain your teeth. Your dentist may prescribe it after a deep cleaning. Over-the-counter mouthwashes with essential oils can help, but they are less effective.
Water flossers vs. string floss for reducing pocket depth
Water flossers can reduce bleeding in 14 days significantly. They are great for people with braces or wide gaps. However, string floss is better for tight contacts between teeth. For best results, use both. Start with string floss, then finish with a water flosser to flush out debris.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes That Help Get Rid of Gum Infection
Anti-inflammatory foods for gum health
Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds reduce gum inflammation markers by up to 20% in studies. Add these to your diet regularly. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, as they feed the bacteria that cause infection.
Nutrients that accelerate gum tissue recovery
Vitamin C is essential for collagen repair in gum tissue. Eat kiwi, bell peppers, and oranges. Vitamin D helps your body fight infection. Get it from sunlight or foods like fatty fish. Zinc supports wound healing. Good sources include nuts and seeds.
Why smoking is the number one risk factor for gum infection recurrence
Smokers are twice as likely to have persistent gum infection after treatment. Healing time is 50% slower because nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums. Quitting smoking is the single most effective lifestyle change you can make. According to the American Dental Association, smokers who quit see significant improvement in gum health within six months.
Recovery Timeline After Treatment to Get Rid of Gum Infection
What to expect in the first 48 hours
Immediately after scaling, you may have slight bleeding and sensitivity. Use warm salt water rinses twice a day. Avoid hard or crunchy foods. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and scrambled eggs. Do not brush the treated areas aggressively. Your gums will feel tender.
Week 1 to week 4 follow-up
By week 2, most bleeding on probing stops. Deeper pockets may still require 4 to 6 weeks to heal. Your dentist will schedule a follow-up visit to check pocket depths. Continue your at-home routine. If you smoke, this is the critical time to quit.
When can you expect to see no bleeding or pain
Full pocket reduction takes up to 6 months in severe cases. Regular follow-ups every 3 months are critical to prevent reinfection. Once your gums are healthy, you should see no bleeding when brushing or flossing. Pain should be gone within the first week. If it persists, contact your dentist.
Closing Summary
To completely get rid of gum infection, you must combine professional deep cleaning with rigorous daily oral hygiene, diet adjustments, and smoking cessation. Early intervention yields the best outcome — consistent home care prevents reinfection, saving both teeth and jawbone. Schedule a periodontal evaluation if any symptoms like bleeding or receding gums persist.
FAQ
Can I get rid of gum infection at home?
No, you cannot fully get rid of gum infection at home. Bacteria live in pockets deeper than 3 mm, which brushing and flossing cannot reach. You need a professional deep cleaning to remove it. At-home care can prevent reinfection but cannot cure an existing infection.
How long does it take to get rid of gum infection?
With professional treatment, most people see improvement in 2 to 4 weeks. Deep pockets may take 4 to 6 weeks to heal. Full pocket reduction can take up to 6 months. Consistent follow-up visits every 3 months help ensure the infection does not return.
What's the best mouthwash for gum infection?
Chlorhexidine mouthwash (0.12%) is the best for gum infection. It kills bacteria and reduces plaque. Use it only for 14 days at a time to avoid tooth staining. Your dentist can prescribe it. Over-the-counter mouthwashes are less effective for active infection.
Is gum infection contagious?
Gum infection itself is not contagious. However, the bacteria that cause it can be passed through saliva. Sharing utensils or kissing can transfer bacteria. Good oral hygiene reduces your bacterial load. If you have periodontitis, family members should also get checked.
Can gum infection spread to other parts of the body?
Yes, gum infection can spread. Bacteria from infected gums can enter your bloodstream and increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections. According to the American Heart Association, treating gum disease can lower inflammation throughout your body.
How often should I see a dentist for gum infection?
If you have gum infection, see your dentist every 3 months for maintenance cleanings. This is more frequent than the standard 6-month checkup. Regular visits allow your dentist to monitor pocket depths and catch any reinfection early.
Does salt water help gum infection?
Salt water rinses can help soothe inflamed gums and reduce bacteria temporarily. Use a warm salt water rinse twice a day after meals. However, salt water alone cannot get rid of gum infection. It is a supportive measure, not a cure. Always follow your dentist's treatment plan.
