Gum Treatment

Periodontal (gum) diseasesGingivitis if untreated can lead to periodontitis and eventually lead to early loss of tooth and hence affecting your health.

Periodontal (gum) diseases which, includes gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to mobility and eventually early loss of tooth. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or multiple teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become swollen and inflamed.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. Gingivitis is often caused by improper and inadequate oral hygiene.

  • Gums become red and swollen and bleed easily.
  • There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage and it can go un-noticed.
Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care like proper brushing and flossing, etc.

Gingivitis if left untreated can progress to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. The bacteria present in the plaque then spreads further below reaching the bone. Bacteria present below the gums release harmful chemical toxins causing irritation of gums.

  • This leads to further swelling of gums and separation and thus detachment of gums from the tooth.
  • This all leads to loosening of tooth and spaces start appearing between the affected teeth.
  • As the disease progresses, it leads to severe bone loss.
  • Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms.
  • Eventually, teeth may have to be removed if timely treatment is not taken.
Oral prophylaxis and wait for healing of gums for 3 weeks and later one or more of the following procedures may be required for complete healing.
  • Curettage
  • Flap surgery
  • Splinting
  • Placement of bone graft and tissue membrane.
Gum Disease not only affects tooth and surrounding bone but is also related to heart and respiratory diseases; preterm low birth weight babies; stroke; osteoporosis and diabetes.