Periodontal (Gum) disease is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Understanding its symptoms, treatment options, and prevention methods is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall wellbeing.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a common but serious oral health condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss. 

The good news is that periodontal disease can be managed effectively with professional care. A periodontist is a specialist in gum health who plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating this condition, helping patients restore their smiles and prevent future complications.

How Common is Periodontal Disease?

You may wonder, how common is periodontal disease? Studies show that it affects a large percentage of adults worldwide, with varying degrees of severity. 

Mild cases often go unnoticed, while advanced stages can cause discomfort and visible changes in gum and tooth health. Early detection is crucial, which is why regular dental check-ups with your dentist or periodontist are essential.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Common signs of periodontal disease include:

• Swollen, red, or bleeding gums

• Persistent bad breath

• Gum recession or teeth appearing longer

• Loose teeth

• Pain or discomfort when chewing

• Persistent bad taste in the mouth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a periodontist. 

Stages and Classification of Periodontal Disease​ 

Healthy gums are firm, pale pink, and do not bleed or swell. In contrast, periodontal disease often causes gums to appear red or purple, swollen, and prone to bleeding. If left untreated, the infection can damage the jawbone supporting your teeth, which may eventually result in tooth loss.

The deterioration of gum and bone tissue usually happens slowly, and many people do not feel pain in the early stages. That’s why recognising the warning signs is so important.

There are four main stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis

The earliest stage, marked by red, swollen gums that bleed during brushing or flossing. At this point, no bone loss occurs, and gingivitis is completely reversible with treatment.

• Mild Periodontitis

Bacteria spread beneath the gums, starting to affect the supporting bone. Gums may recede, forming pockets where plaque and bacteria accumulate beyond the reach of normal cleaning.

• Moderate Periodontitis

Without treatment, infection damages the ligaments and bone holding teeth in place. Bad breath, gum tenderness, and pus around the gum line may appear.

• Advanced Periodontitis

Severe bone loss occurs, leading to loose teeth that may eventually fall out.

Early gum disease is reversible, but once bone has been lost, it cannot grow back naturally. Still, with the right treatment and a good oral hygiene routine, progression can be controlled and managed effectively.

Complications Of Periodontal Disease

If left untreated, periodontal disease will only progress, gradually damaging the gums, bone, and supporting tissues around your teeth. This ongoing infection can eventually result in loose teeth and even tooth loss.

Beyond oral health, gum disease is also linked to wider health concerns. Research shows a strong connection between periodontal disease and conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment at a reliable dental clinic. 

Causes of Periodontal Disease

The primary cause of periodontal disease is the build-up of dental plaque. Plaque harbours many types of bacteria that can irritate and infect the gums. This is why poor oral hygiene is strongly linked to gum disease. In some cases, genetics also play a role, as certain people’s immune systems respond differently to bacteria, making them more vulnerable.

Risk Factors For Gum Disease

A risk factor is anything that increases the likelihood of developing a condition. Common risk factors for periodontal disease include:

• Smoking or using other forms of tobacco

• Poor oral hygiene habits

• Diabetes

• Autoimmune conditions, such as lupus, scleroderma, or Crohn’s disease

• Hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause)

• Stress

• Family history of gum disease

• Heart disease

The bacteria responsible for gum disease can spread from person to person. While it isn’t contagious through casual contact, repeated or prolonged exposure to saliva can cause it. For example, kissing may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.

Diagnosing Periodontal Disease

Dentists can usually spot the signs of gum disease during a routine check-up. They will examine your teeth for plaque build-up, discuss any symptoms you may have, and if needed, refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist) for further care.

A dentist or periodontist uses a small tool called a periodontal probe to measure the pockets around your teeth. The procedure is generally painless and causes minimal discomfort.

The depth of these pockets shows how much bone support has been lost and how advanced the condition is. They will also check your bite, look for gum recession, and test how stable your teeth are.

X-rays are often taken to give a clearer picture of bone loss. By comparing them with older scans, your dentist or periodontist can see how the disease has progressed over time.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Treatment for periodontal disease depends on its severity, your overall health, lifestyle habits such as smoking, and any previous dental treatments you may have had. Your dentist or periodontist will create a personalised treatment plan to restore your gum health and prevent further damage.

Dental Cleaning and Improved Oral Hygiene

For very early gum disease (gingivitis), treatment often involves professional dental cleaning and better home oral care. Since there is no bone loss at this stage, this approach can reverse gum disease by removing harmful plaque and bacteria before they cause more serious problems. Proper oral hygiene includes brushing at least twice daily, flossing once a day, and regular dental check-ups.

Scaling and Root Planing

For mild periodontitis, your periodontist may recommend scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar beneath the gum line, where regular brushing cannot reach. The roots of the teeth are smoothed to prevent bacteria from reattaching. This treatment is typically completed over two visits under local anaesthesia.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Moderate to advanced periodontal disease may require pocket reduction surgery (also known as osseous surgery). The aim is to remove plaque and tartar from deep gum pockets. The periodontist creates a small flap in the gum tissue to access the tooth roots, cleans the infected area, smooths the roots, and then repositions the gums. This procedure is often combined with regenerative treatments such as bone grafting or gum grafting.

LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure)

Some periodontists offer LANAP, a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. Using a specialised laser, LANAP targets diseased gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This can reduce discomfort and speed healing, though results may vary.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is used to replace bone lost to gum disease. The periodontist places bone graft material where bone erosion has occurred. This acts as a scaffold for new bone growth, helping to restore structural support for the teeth.

Gum Grafting

If gum tissue has been lost, gum grafting can restore the gum line and protect exposed tooth roots. Tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth or a donor source and grafted onto the affected area to improve gum health and appearance.

Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)

Often combined with bone grafting, GTR encourages the growth of bone instead of gum tissue into periodontal defects. A membrane is placed between the gum and bone graft to maintain space for bone regeneration.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRF and PRP treatments use growth factors from your own blood to enhance healing and tissue regeneration. A small blood sample is processed to separate these healing agents, which are then applied to the affected gum area. These techniques can shorten recovery time and reduce discomfort.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented through consistent and proper oral hygiene. However, some people are more prone to gum problems due to genetics or certain health conditions, and may need more frequent dental check‑ups and cleanings.

To reduce the risk of periodontal disease:

• Brush your teeth two to three times a day with fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.

• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to control bacteria.

• Avoid smoking and other tobacco products.

• Visit your dentist regularly for examinations and professional cleanings.

If you notice bleeding, swelling, or tenderness in your gums, book a dental appointment as soon as possible. Early detection is vital, and your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specialist care.

Caring for Your Gums Starts with the Right Periodontist

Periodontal disease can quietly progress, affecting both your oral health and overall wellbeing. Early detection and proper care are essential to prevent serious complications. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular check-ups is key. If you’re seeking expert care for your gums, finding the right periodontist in Abu Dhabi is crucial. 

At Bella Medical Centre, our experienced specialists offer personalised treatments to help you maintain healthy gums and a healthy smile. All our treatment plans are personalised to meet the unique needs of every patient, ensuring oral health.