Periodontics
Most common periodontal diseases:
- Gingivitis: superficial inflammation of the gums that causes bleeding, redness and sensitivity
- Periodontitis: a more advanced form of inflammation, with loss of tooth support, gum recession and tooth mobility
If left untreated, periodontal diseases can lead to tooth loss, and they have also been linked to systemic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Examples of periodontal treatments:
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing): removal of tartar and bacteria from the roots of the teeth, below the gum line
Non-surgical periodontal treatment: a series of visits with cleaning by quadrant and oral hygiene instructions
Periodontal surgery (where required): correction of defects and regeneration of the supporting tissues
Cosmetic gum surgery (periodontal plastic surgery): correction of recession or an uneven gum line for functional and esthetic reasons
Signs of periodontal problems:
- Bleeding when brushing
- Bad breath or a metallic taste
- Receding gums (recession)
- Loose teeth
- Widening gaps between the teeth
Our Office
Your gums are not just the "frame" of your smile — they are the foundation that supports all of your teeth. When the gums become inflamed or the bone starts to be lost, the teeth become loose and eventually fall out. And the worst part: this often happens without pain, over time, without you noticing.
Statistically, periodontitis is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults — not tooth decay. If your gums bleed when you brush, if they are receding, or if your teeth feel a little "looser", it is time for a periodontal checkup.
The stages of periodontal disease
Stage 1 — Gingivitis: superficial inflammation. Bleeding when brushing, redness, sensitivity. Fully reversible.
Stage 2 — Early periodontitis: inflammation below the gums, "pockets" form. Slight bone loss. Reversible with non-surgical treatment.
Stage 3 — Moderate/advanced periodontitis: significant bone loss. Teeth start to move, gums recede. Surgery is needed.
Stage 4 — Severe: extensive bone loss. Teeth loose or lost. The goal is stabilization and restoration with implants.
How the diagnosis is made
Periodontal chart: we measure the pocket depth around each tooth (normally 1-3mm). We record bleeding, gum recession and tooth mobility. Panoramic and/or intraoral X-rays.
CBCT (3D X-ray): in complex cases, for accurate mapping of bone loss.
Bacterial analysis: laboratory identification of pathogenic microbes → targeted antibiotic therapy.
Treatments
Professional cleaning (every 6 months): removal of tartar/plaque with an ultrasonic scaler.
Root planing (deep cleaning): cleaning below the gums, in the pockets. Under local anesthesia, painless.
Surgical periodontal treatment: in advanced stages, we open the gums for deep cleaning + bone recontouring. In some cases we place bone regeneration materials.
Recession coverage (gum graft): tissue transfer or biomaterials to cover exposed roots.
Maintenance: regular appointments every 3-4 months after treatment.
The link to general health
Periodontitis is not an isolated problem of the mouth. Scientific studies show an association with:
- Heart disease (heart attack, stroke)
- Diabetes (a two-way relationship)
- Premature births in pregnant women
- Lung conditions in the elderly
- Dementia (recent research)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for my gums to bleed?
No. Bleeding when brushing or flossing is almost always a sign of gingivitis.
How often should I have a cleaning?
For healthy patients, every 6 months. With a history of periodontitis, every 3-4 months.
Does cleaning loosen the teeth?
No. The tartar was hiding the fact that the bone underneath had been lost. Removing it reveals the actual condition. With proper treatment, the teeth stabilize.
Is periodontitis hereditary?
There is a genetic predisposition, but proper oral hygiene prevents it from developing in most cases.
I’m a smoker. Does it affect periodontal health?
Very much. It is the number one risk factor and significantly reduces the success of treatment. Quitting makes a huge difference.
Does root planing hurt?
No. It is done under local anesthesia. Afterward there may be sensitivity for 1-3 days, which can be managed with a common painkiller.