Gum Care and Cleaning

Healthy gums are the foundation for keeping your teeth for a long time. Gum disease often starts without pain, so it can go unnoticed. On this page we explain the signs of gum disease, scale and polish, and the gum treatments we carry out at our practice in Bitez, Bodrum.

Signs

• Gums that bleed when brushing or on their own
• Red or swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Receding gums, with teeth looking longer
• Loose teeth or gaps opening between teeth

The most common cause of bleeding gums is gum inflammation caused by bacterial plaque building up on the teeth. Sometimes it can also be a sign of a general health problem; that is why an examination is needed if the bleeding continues.

Scale and polish

Plaque that is not removed hardens over time into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush and keeps the gums inflamed. During a scale and polish, tartar and stains on the teeth are removed with special instruments, and the teeth are then polished.

A professional clean carried out correctly does not damage the enamel. For a few days afterwards the teeth may feel slightly sensitive.

Gum treatments

As gum inflammation progresses, pockets form between the gum and the tooth and bone loss can begin. At this stage, cleaning the surface alone is not enough.

• Deep cleaning below the gum (root planing): under local anaesthetic, tartar and inflamed tissue inside the gum pocket are removed and the root surface is smoothed.
• Gum surgery: surgical procedures may be needed for deep pockets or certain gum shape problems.

Treatment of advanced gum disease is also carried out at our practice.

How does the process work?

1. Examination and measurement: the gum pockets are measured, bleeding and looseness are recorded and, if needed, the bone is assessed with X-rays.
2. Explanation: we explain the findings and the treatment plan, together with what you need to do at home.
3. Treatment: the necessary cleaning or gum treatment is carried out area by area over one or several appointments.
4. Review: a few weeks later, the healing of the gums is checked.
5. Maintenance: check-up and cleaning appointments are planned at intervals set for you.

Care at home

• Brushing twice a day, including the gum line
• Floss or interdental brushes between the teeth once a day
• Smoking speeds up gum disease and can hide its signs
• Keeping general conditions such as diabetes under control also affects gum health

Frequently asked questions

Does a scale and polish damage the enamel?

A professional clean carried out correctly does not damage the enamel; on the contrary, it helps protect gum health. There may be brief sensitivity afterwards.

Why do my gums bleed?

The most common cause is gum inflammation caused by plaque that builds up when cleaning is not thorough enough. Some medicines and general health problems can also cause bleeding. If the bleeding continues, an examination is needed.

How often should I have a scale and polish?

This varies from person to person. We decide on the interval for check-ups and cleaning together, based on how quickly tartar builds up, the condition of your gums and your care at home.

Do gums bleed during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make the gums inflame and bleed more easily. Taking extra care with oral hygiene and having your gums checked during this time is recommended.