Gum Treatments (Periodontology)

Periodontal diseases are inflammatory diseases affecting the gums and other tissues supporting the teeth. They are responsible for 70% of tooth loss in adults. When diagnosed early, they can be treated easily and successfully.

Preventing or treating gum disease brings other benefits: preserving natural teeth, more comfortable chewing and better digestion.

Periodontal disease begins with gingivitis — the early stage — where gums bleed, are red and enlarged. It may cause little discomfort in this stage. Untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, causing irreversible damage to the gums and the alveolar bone supporting the teeth. A 'periodontal pocket' forms between tooth and gum, facilitating infection and disease progression. As it advances, teeth loosen and may even need extraction.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Gums that bleed during brushing
Red, swollen and tender gums
Gums that separate easily from the teeth
Inflammatory discharge between teeth and gums
Loose teeth or teeth gradually moving apart (creating or widening gaps)
Changes in the bite relationship between upper and lower teeth
Changes or deterioration in the fit of partial dentures
Persistent bad breath

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However, periodontal disease can reach advanced stages without any symptoms. Regular dental visits are therefore extremely important.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes gum disease?

The most important cause is 'bacterial dental plaque' — a sticky, colorless film accumulating on the teeth. Removing plaque with daily brushing and flossing is the basic requirement for a healthy mouth. If plaque is not effectively removed, it turns into tartar (calculus).

How is gum disease prevented?

The most important role in prevention belongs to the individual: daily oral care (brushing and flossing) to remove bacterial plaque. Regular dental visits are equally important — areas unreachable by brush or floss must be evaluated and cleaned by a dentist.

How is gum disease treated?

In the early stage, treatment covers removing deposits (plaque and tartar) and achieving a smooth root surface, eliminating the bacteria and irritants causing inflammation. In most early cases, scaling, plaque removal and effective daily oral care afterwards are sufficient for successful treatment. More advanced cases may require surgical treatment to clean tartar in deep periodontal pockets and to achieve a shrunken pocket that is easier to clean.

What is gum aesthetics?

Today, gum aesthetics — pink aesthetics — has gained as much importance as tooth aesthetics. For natural, healthy and pleasant-looking teeth, gum health and symmetry must be ensured.