Plaque along the edge of your gums makes them red, swollen and tender. They bleed when you brush or floss, but rarely hurt. That is why many people live with it for a long time.
If it isn’t treated, the inflammation can go deeper and damage the bone around your teeth. This is called periodontitis. In the long run, teeth can become loose.
Two forms of gum inflammation
Whether it is a surface inflammation or periodontitis, we find out with a small, blunt instrument that measures the space between tooth and gum.
Gingivitis
An inflammation of the gums only. With a cleaning and better cleaning between your teeth it is usually gone within a few weeks, without lasting damage.
Periodontitis
The inflammation sits deeper and the jawbone around the teeth recedes. What is lost doesn’t grow back, but with treatment and good care at home you can usually stop further damage.
Step by step to healthy gums
1
Measuring
We measure the space between your teeth and gums and see where it bleeds. Sometimes we take an X-ray to see the bone.
2
A plan with the costs up front
We explain what we see and make a treatment plan. You know in advance how many appointments it takes and what it costs.
3
Thorough cleaning
In one or more appointments we clean the teeth, including under the gum line. Where needed, we numb the area first.
4
Measuring again
After about three months we measure again and talk about how often you come for maintenance after that.
“
My gums had been bleeding for months when I brushed. After the treatment and some advice on interdental brushes, that has almost completely stopped.
PPriya
Most of the work happens at home
No treatment lasts without good care at home. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth every day, with interdental brushes that fit. We find the right size together and practise it in the chair.
What raises the chance
Smoking, diabetes, stress and heredity make periodontitis more likely. Stopping smoking helps your gums just as much as the rest of your body. If you are pregnant, your gums often react more quickly: extra attention helps then.
Good to know
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Usually because of plaque along the gum line. Keep brushing well, including the spots that bleed. If it doesn’t stop after a few weeks, make an appointment.
Can I have periodontitis without pain?
Yes. Periodontitis often doesn’t hurt for a long time. Bleeding, a bad taste, bad breath or teeth that seem longer are signs to have it checked.
Does the treatment hurt?
Cleaning under the gum line can be sensitive. That is why we numb those areas. Afterwards your gums may feel tender for a few days.
Will receded gums grow back?
No, gum and bone that are gone don’t grow back by themselves. With treatment you can stop them receding further, though.
Can it come back?
Yes, if plaque gets the chance again. That is why we agree regular check-ups after treatment, and cleaning between your teeth stays important.
