Periodontal Health – What You Should Know
The early stages of gum inflammation (gingivitis) are often painless, which means many people only seek help once the condition has already progressed.
If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis – a chronic infection of the tissues supporting the teeth – which may ultimately lead to tooth loss.
Persistent gum inflammation can also affect general health: it places strain on the immune system and has been linked to systemic conditions such as cardiovascular and joint diseases, diabetes complications, hair loss, and even premature birth.
Maintaining healthy gums is therefore not only essential for oral health, but for overall wellbeing as well.
Common Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease
- Inadequate oral hygiene and plaque or tartar build-up
- Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
- Certain systemic diseases (e.g. diabetes)
- Genetic predisposition and altered immune response
- Long-term stress
- Medications that affect gum health or saliva composition (e.g. some heart drugs, antiepileptics, contraceptives)
Stages of Periodontal Disease
- Gingivitis: Only the gums are inflamed; bleeding may occur during brushing.
- Early periodontitis: Inflammation spreads deeper; gums begin to detach from the tooth.
- Moderate periodontitis: Supporting bone is affected, exposing part of the root surface.
- Advanced periodontitis: Ongoing bone loss leads to tooth mobility, shifting, and eventual tooth loss if left untreated.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gum line
- Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste
- Sensitivity to temperature changes
- Teeth appearing longer or starting to loosen
Periodontal Treatment Options
Healthy gums – prevention and maintenance
- Personalised oral hygiene instruction and motivation
- Regular professional cleaning (scaling) and plaque control, with advanced techniques such as EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) for the most thorough and gentle results.
Mild gum inflammation (gingivitis)
- Professional scaling and polishing (above and below the gum line)
- Improved home hygiene; sometimes complemented by local antiseptic or antibiotic therapy
Advanced periodontal disease (periodontitis)
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria and infected tissue from beneath the gum line
- In selected cases: regenerative or surgical procedures such as flap surgery, guided tissue regeneration, or bone grafting
- Once stability is achieved: restoration with crowns, bridges, or implants if needed
The Phases of Periodontal Treatment
- Initial (causal) phase – thorough cleaning, removal of tartar and bacterial deposits, correction of contributing factors (e.g. overhanging fillings), and oral hygiene instruction.
- Surgical phase – if necessary, regenerative procedures to restore lost tissues or reshape the gums.
- Corrective/restorative phase – final restoration of function and aesthetics, including tooth replacement with bridges, dentures, or implants.
- Maintenance phase – regular follow-ups every 3–6 months to monitor gum health, maintain results, and prevent relapse.
Why See a Periodontist
- Early diagnosis and prevention of gum disease
- Restoration and maintenance of oral health
- Personalised guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques
- Integrated care for complex or systemic conditions linked to oral inflammation
Why Choose Profident
- Highly experienced periodontists specialising in complex gum and bone treatments
- Gentle, minimally invasive procedures with modern regenerative techniques
- Personalised care plans and long-term maintenance support
- Commitment to preserving your natural teeth and overall oral health
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile – and a healthier body.
