Periodontics involves the treatment of problems related to the gums (gingiva) and bone surrounding teeth.

What is gum Disease?
Treatment of gum disease

• Sub gingival scaling and root planning

• Curettage

• Flap surgery

Other procedures done

• Treatment for gum loss

• Cosmetic gum surgery

Healthy gums appear pink to pinkish grey , knife edged and stippled like an orange peel. Gum disease or periodontal disease is a condition affecting gum tissues surrounding teeth. It is caused by excessive bacteria and their by- products(plaque) building up in the mouth. If plaque is allowed to remain in the mouth for a long time, minerals from saliva cause it to harden forming tartar(calculus). In the early stages of gum disease the gums appear red, tender, spongy and bleed easily. If left untreated it can lead to pockets forming under the gums. Eventually, the disease may lead to recession of the gingival tissue, destruction of underlying bone, loosening of teeth and tooth loss. Periodontal disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults.

Healthy Gum

Advanced Periodontitis

Treatment of gum disease involves halting the disease at the stage at which it is detected. As it is difficult to treat advanced stages of the disease, it is advisable to detect it early.

Plaque& calculus removal is the most important. A professional cleaning (scaling) at least once a year, along with diligent home care involving brushing and flossing will greatly reduce the
chances of periodontal disease.

In more advanced stages of gum disease a periodontist will have to perform  treatments like Sub gingival scaling and root planing, curettage, flap surgery,  bone grafts etc.

Sub gingival scaling & Root planning

Removes plaque & calculus present below the gums and smoothens the rough surfaces on the root surface allowing the gum to heal.

In advanced stages of periodontal disease root planing and curettage may not be sufficient and flap surgery may be required. During surgery, sections of the gum are lifted and the diseased tissue is removed and bone defects corrected. If there is extreme bone loss then bone grafting may have to be done using bone from another source in the mouth or with artificial bone material.

Other periodontal procedures

Treatment for gum loss

Gum loss can occur due to periodontal disease, trauma etc. This can create esthetic problems. This can be corrected either by grafting soft –tissue to gums. If the gum recession is severe, a removable plastic or silicone interdental appliance may be made to cover the defect. This has to be removed and cleaned.

Cosmetic gum surgery

People having a ”gummy smile” usually undergo contouring of the gums to lengthen their gums to improve their appearance. Dark gums can also be lightened by a small surgical procedure. This can also be combined with composite bonding and laminates.

Before Cosmetic Gum Surgery

After Cosmetic Gum Surgery