Periodontal Treatment

Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that deals with diagnosing, preventing, and treating diseases of the tooth supporting apparatus (periodontium) which consists of:

1. Gingiva (gums) – soft tissue that covers the bone and surrounds the teeth
2. Periodontal ligament – fibers that connect the tooth root to the alveolar bone
3. Alveolar bone – the part of the jaw that "holds" the teeth
4. Tooth root cementum – specialized layer on the root surface to which ligament fibers attach

Although teeth are the focus of most people, their survival directly depends on the condition of the tissues that hold them in place. Teeth can be completely healthy, but without the support of the periodontium, they become unstable and can be lost.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a progressive chronic infection caused by bacteria from dental plaque. If plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens and becomes dental calculus, which is an excellent substrate for bacterial reproduction. Bacteria release toxins that cause gum inflammation (gingivitis). Over time, inflammation spreads to deeper structures – fiber breakdown and bone loss occur. This process is called periodontitis.

Periodontal Diseases Include Two Basic Phases

Gingivitis – as the word itself says, it affects only the gingiva (gums), it is the initial and reversible stage characterized by:

• Redness, swelling, and bleeding gums when brushing teeth
• No loss of bone and connective tissue

Completely curable with regular tooth brushing and professional cleaning.

Periodontitis (Periodontosis, periodontal disease) – advanced phase affects all 4 structures that make up the periodontium to varying degrees, and depending on the extent and severity of the disease, the clinical picture varies:

• Loss of connective tissue, gum recession, bad breath
• Formation of deeper "pockets" between teeth and gums where bacteria accumulate
• Loss of bone and supporting tissues, teeth become loose
• Teeth become mobile, disrupt normal bite, and can fall out

What Symptoms Should Not Be Ignored?

Pay attention to the following signs:

• Bleeding gums (even minimal)
• Bad breath that doesn't go away
• Swelling and redness of gums
• Sensitivity to hot/cold
• Gum recession – teeth appear "longer"
• Loose teeth or tooth movement from natural position

If you notice any of these symptoms, we advise you to consult a dentist as soon as possible – periodontal diseases do not resolve on their own, but worsen over time if left untreated.

How Periodontal Diseases Are Treated

In our clinic, we approach periodontal health thoroughly and individually. Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment may include the following:

1. Professional removal of soft deposits and dental calculus with tooth polishing and education on proper oral hygiene.

2. Subgingival cleaning – Deep cleaning below the gum line (curettage of periodontal pockets).

3. Antibiotic therapy (if needed) locally and systemically in cases of infections.

4. Control examinations and progress monitoring every 3-6 months and treatment adjustment depending on response to therapy.

5. In advanced cases, surgical periodontal interventions are performed which include cleaning tooth roots and regeneration of lost tissue (using biological materials and regenerative techniques).

Can Periodontosis Be Cured?

Gingivitis is completely curable, while periodontitis is not fully curable, but can be successfully controlled and slowed down with timely therapy and regular checkups.

If it has been more than 6 months since your last checkup, or if you notice symptoms we mentioned – it's time to visit us. Periodontal diseases are the silent enemy of a healthy and beautiful smile – they often don't hurt, but leave serious consequences if neglected.