Periodontology

Before teeth whitening, your dentist will check the condition of your gums and teeth to make sure it’s safe for you. It is not recommended to receive whitening treatment on receeding gums. If whitening isn’t the best option for you according to your case, we’ll discuss your options for a brighter smile.

A flap operation is a type of gum treatment used when regular cleaning is no longer enough. In this procedure, your periodontologist gently lifts the gum tissue to clean deep areas around the tooth roots, removing bacteria and tartar that can’t be reached otherwise. After cleaning, the gum is placed back so it can heal in a healthier position.

This treatment is usually needed in advanced gum disease, especially when deep “pockets” have formed between the teeth and gums. If left untreated, these pockets can cause ongoing infection, loose teeth that swings in your mouth, and even tooth loss.

A deep cleaning (also called scaling) removes tartar and plaque from above and just below the gumline. It’s usually enough when gum problems are mild and there isn’t too much damage yet.

Curettage, on the other hand, is needed when gum disease has reached an advanced stage. In this treatment, the dentist cleans much deeper under the gums, removing infected tissue and bacteria from the pockets that have formed around the teeth. This helps the gums heal and reattach more firmly to the teeth.

Both treatments are used to clean the teeth and gums, but they are chosen for different stages of gum disease. If the patient has gum disease, these procedures need to be completed before further treatments can take place.

A gummy smile is when too much of the gums show when you smile. There are several ways to treat it depending on the case.

The good news is that there are safe and effective treatments. Sometimes a reshaping of the gums is enough to make the teeth look longer and the smile more balanced. In other cases, treatments like crown lengthening, or orthodontic adjustments may be recommended, according to your case.

Unfortunately yes, it can. Gum problems often mean there is a build-up of bacteria and tartar under the gums. These bacteria release odors when they feed on the food particles left inside your mouth, which can lead to persistent bad breath. Infections or gum disease can make this even stronger.

The good news is that with proper treatment and good oral care, it will improve quickly. Regular dental cleanings, brushing, flossing, and treating any gum issues are the key to keeping your breath fresh.