Gum treatment

Gum Disease Treatment in Rangsit

Gum disease treatment aims to control inflammation and infection affecting the gums and the tissues that support the teeth.

Early gum inflammation may improve with professional cleaning and consistent home care. More advanced periodontal disease may require cleaning below the gum line, root surface treatment, repeated assessment and long-term periodontal maintenance.

At SWC Dental in Rangsit, treatment begins with an examination of the gums, teeth, supporting bone and existing dental restorations. The appropriate treatment depends on the severity and extent of the condition rather than using the same cleaning procedure for every patient.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition associated with bacterial plaque accumulating around the teeth and gum line.

The condition can affect:

  • The visible gum tissue
  • The attachment between the gums and teeth
  • The periodontal ligament supporting the teeth
  • The jawbone surrounding the roots
  • The stability and position of the teeth

Gum disease generally includes two broad conditions: gingivitis and periodontitis.

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation limited mainly to the gum tissue.

Common signs may include:

  • Red gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Bleeding during brushing or interdental cleaning
  • Tenderness
  • Plaque and tartar buildup
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Changes in the gum contour

At this stage, there is no established loss of the supporting bone or periodontal attachment caused by periodontitis.

Gingivitis may improve when plaque and tartar are removed and daily oral hygiene becomes more effective.

However, bleeding gums should not simply be ignored. A dental examination is needed to determine whether the inflammation is limited to gingivitis or is associated with deeper periodontal disease.

What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of periodontal disease that affects the structures supporting the teeth.

As inflammation progresses, the gum attachment may separate from the tooth and form a periodontal pocket. Bacteria and deposits may extend beneath the gum line, where ordinary brushing cannot reach effectively.

Over time, periodontitis may lead to:

  • Deeper periodontal pockets
  • Loss of attachment around the teeth
  • Gum recession
  • Loss of supporting bone
  • Changes in tooth position
  • Tooth mobility
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Abscess formation
  • Eventual loss of affected teeth

Periodontitis does not always cause severe pain. Some patients may have significant periodontal damage without obvious symptoms.

Signs You May Need a Gum Assessment

Arrange a dental assessment if you notice:

  • Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Persistent bad breath
  • A bad taste in the mouth
  • Gums pulling away from the teeth
  • Teeth appearing longer
  • Spaces developing between teeth
  • Food repeatedly becoming trapped
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Pain or discomfort when chewing
  • Pus or discharge around the gum line
  • Swelling near a tooth
  • Changes in the way the teeth meet
  • A partial denture fitting differently
  • Heavy plaque or tartar buildup

These signs do not confirm the severity of gum disease. The dentist must assess the gums, teeth and supporting bone before recommending treatment.

Can Gum Disease Develop Without Pain?

Yes. Gingivitis and periodontitis may progress with little discomfort, particularly during the earlier stages.

Some patients first become aware of the condition when:

  • Their gums bleed during cleaning
  • Gum recession becomes visible
  • A dentist measures deeper periodontal pockets
  • Bone loss appears on dental X-rays
  • Teeth begin to move or change position
  • Bad breath persists despite brushing
  • A tooth becomes loose

Regular dental examinations are therefore important even when there is no toothache.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Dental plaque is an important contributing factor in gum inflammation.

Plaque is a soft bacterial film that continually forms on the teeth. If it is not removed effectively, it may accumulate along and beneath the gum line.

Plaque can also harden into tartar, or dental calculus. Tartar attaches firmly to the teeth and root surfaces and cannot normally be removed with a toothbrush alone.

The inflammatory response to bacterial plaque may damage the tissues supporting the teeth in susceptible individuals.

Factors That May Increase the Risk of Gum Disease

Several factors may influence the development, progression or treatment response of periodontal disease.

These may include:

  • Ineffective plaque removal
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Diabetes, particularly when poorly controlled
  • Previous periodontal disease
  • Genetic susceptibility
  • Certain medications
  • Dry mouth
  • Hormonal changes
  • Stress
  • Reduced immune function
  • Crowded or difficult-to-clean teeth
  • Unsuitable restoration margins
  • Poorly fitting dental work
  • Limited access to dental care
  • Inconsistent periodontal maintenance

Having a risk factor does not mean that severe periodontal disease will definitely develop. The dentist considers the complete clinical picture and individual history.

Smoking and Gum Disease

Smoking is an important periodontal risk factor.

It may affect:

  • The immune response
  • Healing after periodontal treatment
  • The severity and progression of disease
  • The appearance of gum inflammation
  • Long-term treatment stability

Some smokers may show less visible bleeding even when periodontal disease is present because smoking can alter the gum tissue response.

Patients who smoke should inform the dentist. Support for reducing or stopping tobacco use may form part of the periodontal care plan.

Diabetes and Gum Health

Diabetes and periodontal health may influence each other, particularly when blood glucose is not well controlled.

Patients with diabetes should inform the dental team about:

  • Their current condition
  • Medication
  • Recent blood-glucose control
  • Previous healing problems
  • Medical advice from their physician

Dental treatment does not replace medical diabetes management. Coordination with the patient’s medical team may be appropriate in selected situations.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis Are Not the Same

Topic Gingivitis Periodontitis
Main area affected Gum tissue Gums and supporting structures
Bone loss Not caused by gingivitis alone May be present
Periodontal pockets May have shallow inflammation-related changes Deeper pockets may develop
Tooth mobility Not usually caused by gingivitis May occur when support is lost
Treatment Plaque control and professional cleaning May require deep cleaning and periodontal therapy
Reversibility Inflammation may resolve Lost bone and attachment may not fully return
Maintenance Preventive review Ongoing periodontal maintenance often required

Early assessment helps identify which condition is present and what treatment is appropriate.

How Is Gum Disease Diagnosed?

A periodontal diagnosis is based on more than the appearance of the gums.

The assessment may include the following steps.

Review of symptoms and medical history

The dentist may ask about:

  • Gum bleeding
  • Bad breath
  • Tooth mobility
  • Pain or swelling
  • Previous periodontal treatment
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Current medication
  • Pregnancy
  • Relevant medical conditions
  • Family history of early tooth loss
  • Home-cleaning habits

Examination of plaque and tartar

The dentist evaluates where plaque and tartar have accumulated and whether deposits extend beneath the gum line.

Periodontal pocket measurement

A periodontal probe is used to measure the space between the tooth and gum.

The dentist may record:

  • Pocket depth
  • Bleeding during probing
  • Gum recession
  • Attachment levels
  • Suppuration or discharge
  • Tooth mobility
  • Furcation involvement around multi-rooted teeth

Pocket measurements are interpreted together with the rest of the examination. One deeper measurement does not by itself describe the entire condition.

Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays may be recommended to assess:

  • Supporting bone levels
  • Bone-loss patterns
  • Tartar beneath the gums
  • Tooth roots
  • Existing restorations
  • Dental infection
  • Teeth with uncertain prognosis

Dental X-rays do not replace clinical periodontal measurements.

Tooth mobility and bite assessment

The dentist may examine whether teeth are moving, separating or receiving excessive forces.

A loose tooth may be associated with periodontal support loss, inflammation, trauma from the bite or another condition.

Diagnosis, staging and treatment planning

Where periodontitis is present, its severity, extent and risk of progression may be considered during diagnosis and planning.

The patient should receive an explanation of:

  • Which areas are affected
  • Whether bone loss is present
  • Which teeth have a favourable or uncertain prognosis
  • The proposed treatment
  • Alternative options
  • Maintenance requirements
  • Risk factors that may affect treatment

Routine Teeth Cleaning and Gum Treatment Are Different

Routine professional teeth cleaning is generally intended to remove plaque, tartar and surface stains from accessible areas in patients without deeper periodontal treatment needs.

Periodontal treatment may extend below the gum line and involve the root surfaces when periodontitis is present.

Topic Routine teeth cleaning Periodontal gum treatment
Main purpose Preventive plaque and tartar removal Control periodontal inflammation and infection
Typical area Tooth surfaces and accessible gum margins Deeper areas beneath the gum line
Diagnosis Healthy gums or limited inflammation Periodontitis or deeper periodontal involvement
Root surface treatment Usually limited May be required
Anaesthesia Often unnecessary May be used
Number of appointments Often one appointment May require several sections or visits
Follow-up Preventive recall Periodontal reassessment and maintenance

Routine cleaning should not be substituted for periodontal treatment when deeper disease has been diagnosed.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment used in selected patients with deposits and inflammation below the gum line.

Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth and root surfaces.

Root surface instrumentation aims to remove deposits and contaminated surface material while creating a clean surface that can be maintained.

The treatment may be performed:

  • In one area
  • By quadrant or section
  • Across several appointments
  • With local anaesthesia when required
  • Using ultrasonic and hand instruments
  • With additional home-care instruction

The exact approach depends on pocket depth, deposit levels, sensitivity, tooth anatomy and the extent of disease.

Is Scaling and Root Planing the Same as Deep Cleaning?

The phrase “deep cleaning” is commonly used to describe scaling and root planing, but it should not be treated as a general upgrade from routine cleaning.

It is a periodontal treatment recommended when the examination shows a need to clean beneath the gums and along root surfaces.

Not every patient with tartar needs scaling and root planing.

Gum Treatment Process at SWC Dental

1. Periodontal examination

The dentist examines the gums, teeth, periodontal pockets, gum recession, tooth mobility and plaque levels.

Dental imaging may be recommended where necessary.

2. Explanation of the condition

The dentist discusses:

  • Whether the condition appears to be gingivitis or periodontitis
  • Areas with deeper pockets
  • Evidence of supporting bone loss
  • Teeth requiring closer monitoring
  • Contributing risk factors
  • Suitable treatment options
  • Expected maintenance needs

3. Oral hygiene instruction

Effective home care is an important part of periodontal treatment.

Recommendations may include:

  • Toothbrushing technique
  • Fluoride toothpaste
  • Interdental brushes
  • Dental floss where suitable
  • Cleaning around bridges
  • Cleaning around dental implants
  • Powered toothbrush use
  • Cleaning difficult or crowded areas

The recommended tools should match the size and shape of the spaces between the teeth.

4. Removal of plaque and tartar

Professional instruments are used to remove deposits from the teeth and accessible root surfaces.

Treatment may involve ultrasonic instruments, hand instruments or both.

5. Scaling and root surface treatment

When periodontal pockets and deposits below the gum line are present, deeper cleaning may be completed in selected areas.

Local anaesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort.

6. Management of contributing dental problems

Plaque-retentive factors may include:

  • Rough restoration margins
  • Overhanging fillings
  • Open contacts
  • Poorly fitting crowns
  • Food-trapping areas
  • Tooth decay
  • Difficult-to-clean prostheses

Additional restorative treatment may be discussed when these factors interfere with periodontal stability.

7. Reassessment

After a healing period, the dentist may reassess:

  • Gum bleeding
  • Pocket depths
  • Plaque levels
  • Tissue response
  • Tooth mobility
  • Patient home care
  • Areas requiring additional treatment

Further treatment should be based on the response rather than assumed before reassessment.

8. Periodontal maintenance

Patients with a history of periodontitis may require ongoing periodontal maintenance rather than returning immediately to a routine cleaning schedule.

The interval is based on individual risk, disease history and treatment response.

Does Gum Treatment Hurt?

The level of discomfort varies according to:

  • Gum inflammation
  • Pocket depth
  • Amount of tartar
  • Root sensitivity
  • Number of areas treated
  • Instruments used
  • Individual pain sensitivity

Local anaesthesia may be used for deeper treatment.

After treatment, some patients may experience temporary:

  • Gum tenderness
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Mild bleeding
  • Awareness of spaces between teeth
  • Discomfort when chewing
  • Soreness at the treated gum line

Contact the clinic if pain or swelling increases, bleeding does not reduce or another concerning symptom develops.

Why Do Teeth Look Longer After Gum Treatment?

After inflammation decreases, swollen gum tissue may become firmer and shrink toward a healthier contour.

Existing gum recession may therefore become more visible.

The teeth may also appear longer when:

  • Swelling has reduced
  • Tartar that previously covered the root has been removed
  • Periodontal attachment has already been lost
  • The gums heal at a lower position

Treatment does not necessarily create the original gum recession. In many cases, the underlying tissue loss was already present but less noticeable before inflammation and deposits were controlled.

Why Are Spaces More Visible After Deep Cleaning?

Tartar, swollen tissue and inflammation may previously have filled or hidden spaces between teeth.

After deposits are removed and swelling decreases, spaces may become more noticeable.

The dental team can recommend:

  • Interdental brushes
  • Floss
  • Bridge-cleaning aids
  • Water irrigation where appropriate
  • Restorative assessment for selected aesthetic concerns

Maintaining clean spaces is important even when their appearance changes.

Can Loose Teeth Become Firm Again?

The response depends on why the tooth is loose and how much support remains.

Mobility caused partly by active inflammation may improve after treatment. However, teeth with substantial bone and attachment loss may remain mobile.

Management may include:

  • Periodontal treatment
  • Bite adjustment in selected cases
  • Temporary or definitive splinting
  • Restorative treatment
  • Extraction where the tooth cannot be maintained
  • Replacement planning

No improvement should be guaranteed before the tooth and supporting tissues have been assessed.

Are Antibiotics Required for Gum Disease?

Antibiotics are not automatically required for every patient with gingivitis or periodontitis.

The main treatment commonly involves disruption and removal of bacterial deposits, improvement of home care and management of risk factors.

Antimicrobial medication may be considered in selected situations based on the clinical condition.

Patients should not use leftover antibiotics or medication prescribed for another person.

Antibiotics do not replace professional removal of plaque and tartar.

When May Gum Surgery Be Considered?

Non-surgical periodontal treatment is commonly used first.

Surgery may be considered when:

  • Deep pockets remain after initial treatment
  • Deposits or defects cannot be accessed adequately
  • Bone architecture requires further management
  • Regenerative treatment may be appropriate
  • Gum recession requires assessment
  • Crown-lengthening treatment is indicated
  • An area remains difficult to maintain

The suitable procedure depends on the periodontal diagnosis, tooth prognosis and treatment goals.

Not every patient with periodontitis requires surgery.

What Is Periodontal Maintenance?

Periodontal maintenance is ongoing professional care for patients who have been treated for periodontitis or who remain at increased risk.

An appointment may include:

  • Review of medical and dental history
  • Examination of the gums
  • Periodontal measurements where appropriate
  • Plaque and bleeding assessment
  • Cleaning above and below the gum line
  • Reinforcement of home care
  • Examination of dental implants
  • Monitoring of tooth mobility
  • Review of risk factors
  • Planning for further treatment when needed

Periodontal maintenance is not a guarantee that disease will never recur. It helps monitor and control risk over time.

How Often Is Periodontal Maintenance Needed?

There is no single interval suitable for every patient.

The recommended schedule may depend on:

  • Severity of previous periodontitis
  • Remaining periodontal pockets
  • Plaque control
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Tooth mobility
  • Dental implants
  • Previous disease progression
  • Response to treatment
  • Ability to clean at home
  • New dental restorations
  • Other medical or dental risk factors

The dentist will recommend a recall interval after reviewing the individual condition.

Gum Disease Around Dental Implants

Dental implants cannot develop cavities, but the surrounding gum and bone may be affected by plaque-associated inflammation.

Possible signs around an implant include:

  • Bleeding during cleaning
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Discharge
  • Increasing pocket depth
  • Bone loss
  • Discomfort
  • Movement of the restoration or implant

Patients with dental implants require regular assessment and suitable cleaning around the implant restoration.

Movement should be assessed promptly because it may come from the crown, screw, abutment or implant itself.

Gum Health Before Crowns, Bridges and Implants

Healthy and stable gum tissue is important before definitive restorative treatment.

Active periodontal disease may affect:

  • Restoration margins
  • Gum contours
  • Impression or scan accuracy
  • Implant planning
  • Long-term cleaning
  • The prognosis of supporting teeth

Patients planning a dental crown, dental bridge, dental implant or full mouth rehabilitation may need gum treatment first.

Gum Disease and Orthodontic Treatment

Active periodontal disease should be assessed before moving teeth orthodontically.

Patients considering braces or clear aligners may require:

  • Periodontal examination
  • Professional cleaning
  • Stabilisation of inflammation
  • Improved home care
  • Ongoing periodontal monitoring

Orthodontic appliances can create additional plaque-retentive areas and require careful daily cleaning.

Caring for Your Gums at Home

Home care is an essential part of controlling plaque.

Recommended measures may include:

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Clean between the teeth every day
  • Use properly sized interdental brushes where recommended
  • Clean beneath bridges
  • Clean carefully around implants
  • Replace worn toothbrush heads
  • Avoid smoking and tobacco products
  • Follow diabetes-management advice
  • Attend recommended maintenance appointments
  • Seek assessment when bleeding or swelling persists

Mouthwash may support care in selected situations but does not replace brushing, interdental cleaning or professional periodontal treatment.

When Should You Contact the Dentist Promptly?

Contact the clinic if you experience:

  • Rapidly increasing gum or facial swelling
  • Severe gum pain
  • Pus or persistent discharge
  • Fever or feeling unwell
  • A tooth becoming suddenly loose
  • Difficulty chewing because of pain
  • Persistent bleeding
  • A gum abscess
  • Swelling around a dental implant
  • A change in the bite
  • A restoration becoming loose

Difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing or rapidly spreading swelling may require urgent medical assessment.

Gum Disease Treatment in Rangsit at SWC Dental

SWC Dental provides gum and periodontal assessment for patients in Rangsit, Pathum Thani and nearby areas, including Thanyaburi, Khlong Luang, Lam Luk Ka and Don Mueang.

The treatment process may include:

  • Periodontal examination
  • Pocket measurement
  • Dental imaging where indicated
  • Plaque and tartar removal
  • Scaling and root surface treatment
  • Oral hygiene instruction
  • Periodontal reassessment
  • Maintenance planning
  • Referral or surgical assessment in selected cases

Related services may include:

The type of treatment, number of appointments, maintenance interval and fees depend on the periodontal examination and individual condition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Treatment

Is bleeding during brushing normal?

Occasional bleeding can have several causes, but repeated gum bleeding should not be ignored. It may indicate plaque-related inflammation or periodontal disease and should be assessed by a dentist.

Can gingivitis be treated?

Gingivitis may improve with professional plaque and tartar removal together with effective daily cleaning. The dentist should confirm that deeper periodontal disease is not present.

Can periodontitis be cured completely?

Periodontitis can often be controlled, but lost supporting bone and attachment may not return fully. Long-term maintenance is usually important to reduce the risk of further progression.

Is gum treatment the same as teeth cleaning?

No. Routine cleaning is preventive care for accessible plaque and tartar. Periodontal treatment may involve deeper areas beneath the gums and root surfaces.

Does deep cleaning damage the teeth?

Scaling and root surface treatment is intended to remove deposits and manage diseased areas. It is not intended to remove healthy enamel. Temporary sensitivity or visible recession may occur after inflammation and deposits are reduced.

Will my gums grow back after recession?

Gum recession does not usually return to its original position through cleaning alone. Selected cases may be assessed for gum-grafting or other periodontal procedures.

Do all patients with gum disease need surgery?

No. Many patients begin with non-surgical treatment, improved oral hygiene and reassessment. Surgery is considered only when clinically indicated.

Can mouthwash treat periodontitis?

Mouthwash may support plaque control in selected cases, but it cannot remove hardened tartar or replace professional periodontal treatment.

Can loose teeth be saved?

Some mobile teeth may be maintained, while others have insufficient support. The outcome depends on bone loss, inflammation, bite, tooth condition and response to treatment.

How often will I need periodontal maintenance?

The interval is based on previous disease severity, remaining pockets, plaque control, smoking, diabetes and other individual risks. The dentist will recommend an appropriate schedule.

Book a Gum and Periodontal Assessment

If you have bleeding gums, gum swelling, persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth or discomfort when chewing, arrange a periodontal assessment at SWC Dental in Rangsit.

The dentist will examine the gums, measure periodontal pockets and review suitable dental images before recommending routine cleaning, deeper periodontal treatment, maintenance or another appropriate option.

View the dental treatment fees or contact SWC Dental to arrange an appointment.

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a serious infection of the gums. It’s caused by bacteria that have been allowed to accumulate on your teeth and gums. As periodontitis progresses, your bones and teeth can be damaged. However, if periodontitis is treated early and proper oral hygiene is maintained, the damage can be stopped.

What are the stages of periodontitis?

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Periodontitis starts as inflammation and gets worse over time.

Inflammation (gingivitis)

Periodontitis begins with inflammation in the gums known as gingivitis. One of the first signs of gingivitis is that your gums will bleed when you brush or floss your teeth.

Early periodontal disease

In the early stages of periodontitis, your gums recede, or pull away, from your teeth and small pockets form between gums and teeth. The pockets harbor harmful bacteria. You’ll likely experience bleeding during brushing and flossing as well, and possibly some bone loss.

Moderate periodontal disease

You might experience bleeding and pain around the teeth and gum recession. Your teeth will begin to lose bone support and become loose. The infection can also lead to an inflammatory response throughout your body.

Advanced periodontal disease

The gums, bones, and other tissue that support your teeth are destroyed. If you have advanced periodontitis, you might experience severe pain while chewing, severe bad breath, and a foul taste in your mouth. You’ll likely lose your teeth.

What are the symptoms of periodontitis?

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The symptoms depend on the stage of disease, but generally include:

  • gums that bleed when you brush your teeth or floss
  • bad breath
  • changes in the position of your teeth or loose teeth
  • receding gums
  • red, tender, or swollen gums
  • buildup of plaque or tartar on your teeth
  • pain when chewing
  • tooth loss
  • foul taste in your mouth
  • inflammatory response throughout your body

Symptoms in the early stages of periodontitis are often not very noticeable. Your dentist will likely be the first to point them out.

What causes periodontitis?

Periodontitis is typically caused by poor dental hygiene. When you don’t brush your teeth and clean in hard-to-reach places in your mouth, the following happens:

  1. The bacteria in your mouth multiply and form a substance known as dental plaque.
  2. If you don’t remove the plaque by brushing, the bacteria deposit minerals within the plaque over time.
  3. This mineral deposit is known as tartar, which will encourage more bacterial growth toward the root of the tooth.
  4. Your body’s immune response to this bacterial growth leads to inflammation in your gums.
  5. The attachment of the gum to the root of a tooth is disrupted over time, and a periodontal pocket (gap) may form between the gum and root.
  6. Harmful anaerobic bacteria colonize in the pocket and multiply, releasing toxins that can damage the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures.

Additionally, certain factors put you at a higher risk of periodontitis, including:

  • smoking, which is one of the biggest risk factors for periodontitis
  • type 2 diabetes
  • obesity
  • hormonal changes in women (such as when menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause occurs), which can make the gums more sensitive
  • conditions that impact your immune system, like HIV or leukemia
  • medications that reduce the flow of saliva in your mouth
  • genetics
  • poor nutrition, including a deficiency in vitamin C

How is periodontitis diagnosed?

Your dentist will be able to detect signs of periodontitis at an early stage during a routine dental examination. They can monitor your periodontal status over time to make sure it doesn’t get any worse.

Your dentist may use a tiny ruler called a probe to measure any pockets on your gums. This test is usually painless. If plaque, tartar, or both are found on your teeth, your dentist will remove these substances as part of a professional cleaning. They may also take dental X-rays or refer you to a periodontist, an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, for further testing and treatment.

What are the complications of periodontitis?

If not treated for periodontitis, the supporting structures of your teeth, including the bones of your jaw, can be destroyed. Your teeth loosen and might fall out or require extraction. Other complications of periodontitis include:

  • painful abscesses
  • migration of your teeth, which may interfere with eating
  • receding gums and exposure of the roots of your teeth
  • increased risk of complications during pregnancy, including low birth weight and preeclampsia
  • increased risk of heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes

How is periodontitis treated?

  1. Oral hygiene practices
    Your dentist will give you advice on how to use tooth brushes and dental floss properly, and may recommend other oral hygiene products like a water pick or mouthwash.
  2. Professional cleanings
    Your dentist will remove plaque buildup and tartar from your teeth and their roots, and then polish your teeth and treat them with fluoride. A deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing will help scrape off tartar and also remove any rough spots on the tooth root where bacteria tend to gather.
  3. Antibiotics
    In some cases, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to help with persistent gum infections that haven’t responded to cleanings. The antibiotic might be in the form of a mouthwash, gel, or an oral tablet or capsule.
  4. Follow-up appointments
    If periodontal pockets are still present, they may recommend other treatment options, like surgery.
  5. Surgery
    If inflammation persists in sites that are inaccessible to brushing and flossing, your dentist may recommend a surgical procedure called flap surgery to clean deposits under your gums.