This page was created to alert patients to the often neglected symptoms and consequences of diseases affecting the gums and surrounding elements – Periodontal Diseases.

This page illustrates the attention and care given to Previdente patients. We would like to inform you that we are implementing a Quality Management System in view of obtaining Quality certification by ISO 9001.

What is Periodontal Disease (PD)? Is it the same as gingivitis?

PD or Periodontitis involves the compromising of the periodontal tissues (gums and fibres that connect the root to the bone) via an inflammatory process that leads to re-absorption of the bone surrounding the roots of the teeth, while gingivitis does not involve bone alterations because the inflammation only affects the gums.

How do I know if I already have PD?

The most typical symptom is bleeding, but you should also watch out for: changes in the position of the teeth, mobility, receding gums, food retention, swelling.

What causes PD?

Bacterial plaque sticking to teeth is the only cause; however, some changes in the gums can be due to hormones, use of certain medication, weakened resistance, improperly adapted restorations or prostheses, etc.

How is treatment administered?

It consists of removing the bacterial plaque deposits by scraping and smoothing the roots of the teeth. When scraping instruments do not reach the whole area of the compromised root, surgery is recommended to facilitate access.

Once the disease is treated, do the tissues fully recover?

No, there will always be after-effects, except in the case of gingivitis. Periodontal disease leaves aesthetic after-effects, such as dislocation of the tooth, gum recession with consequential increase in the length of the tooth, among others. There are surgical and prosthetic procedures that can minimise these defects.

How often do patients have to return for maintenance after treatment?

Maintenance visits should ensure stability of the health condition achieved via treatment and thus avoid the disease’s progression and reincidence.
In more severe cases, a frequency of 3 months is recommended, while 4/6 months is recommended for most people.

What is gum recession?

It involves movement of the gum line causing exposure of the root of the tooth. There are several causes:

• trauma caused by brushing (exaggerated friction with a hard bristled brush);
• inflammation of the gums due to the presence of bacterial plaque;
• occlusive trauma (excessive forces on the tooth caused by improper dental position or “high” restorations);
• improperly adapted restorations in the gum region.

Normally, progression of this process is avoided with proper brushing, professional cleaning, occlusive adjustment, elimination of harmful habits, removal of excessive restorative materials, should they exist, and, if necessary, correct the improper position of the tooth with an orthodontic apparatus.

Can these diseases be prevented?

They can be prevented by:

• Domestic removal of bacterial plaque (brushing with toothpaste, using a spiral brush and flossing);
• Using supplements such as a collutory with chlorhexidine.
• Periodic cleaning conducted by a dentist.