Gum treatments

Periodontal disease usually manifests itself through two common conditions: gingivitis and periodontitis. In either case, the deterioration of the periodontium is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar. The bacteria attack the gums, the underlying bone, the alveolar ligament and the cementum (calcified tissue that protects the root).

Gingivitis is a benign condition

Gingivitis is the initial phase of the disease. When detected at an early stage, it is completely reversible. Professional scaling and healthy and diligent oral hygiene are usually enough to turn the tide.

This condition is insidious and often goes unnoticed by the patient. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that can be a red flag:

• Bleeding to varying degrees when brushing and flossing
• Slightly swollen gums
• Sensitivity of the gums to touch
• Gencives rougies
• The Countess (Halitose)

Periodontitis: an infection to be taken seriously

When gingivitis is recurrent, chronic, or simply untreated, it degenerates into periodontitis. At this stage, the bacteria attack the supporting tissues of the tooth, which can cause, among other things, the loss of one or more teeth.

To stabilize the disease, it is necessary to carry out scaling, but also to clean the gum pockets, the space between the gum and the tooth. Surgery and/or the prescription of antibiotics or a particular mouthwash may be necessary depending on the condition of the disease.

Periodontitis is not painful in itself, but some symptoms are alarming:

• Persistent bad breath
• Gum tenderness and bleeding
• Tooth mobility
• Periodontal abscess
• Discoloration of the gums
• Tooth loss