Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum line that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. The three stages of gum disease — from least to most severe — are gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis.

Gum disease can be painless, so it is important to be aware of any of the following symptoms – already at the time of early signs and symptoms

Early Signs & Symptoms

• Swollen, red, tender and/or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in mouth

Later signs & Symptons (periodontitis and advanced periodontitis)

• Gums that recede or move away from the tooth
• Loose teeth
• Visible pus surrounding the teeth and gums

Plaque bacteria, acids and certain foods all contribute to the development of gum disease. Fortunately, two common treatment methods exist to reverse the disease — dental scaling and root planing.

Also you will be given advice and hands on training how to clean up your teeth. This home care done by yourself is vitally important for the long term success of the treatment. Follow up visits to dental clinic are defined according to patients personal needs, for example based on how fast calculus is formed.

Dental Scaling and Root Planing

The dentist will start the procedure with a thorough examination of your mouth. Dental scaling occurs with manual hand instruments, ultrasonic instruments or both. They are used to eliminate the plaque bacteria, remove tartar (calculus) and biofilm from the tooth surface and underneath the gum line. We can offer you different options for local anesthetics in order to avoid pain or discomfort.