Periodontology

Periodontology is the dental specialty concerned with the gums, the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth, as well as the tissues surrounding dental implants. Symptoms such as bleeding gums, swelling, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and signs of inflammation around implants may require a periodontal evaluation.

At Ozant Dental Clinic in Nicosia, a periodontal examination includes a comprehensive assessment of gum appearance, bleeding, periodontal pocket depths, bone levels, oral hygiene, and individual risk factors. The primary goal of treatment is to control bacterial plaque and establish an effective oral care routine that the patient can maintain over the long term.

What Is Periodontology?

Periodontology focuses on the health of the gums, periodontal ligament, and jawbone surrounding and supporting the teeth. Gingivitis refers to early-stage and generally reversible inflammation of the gums, while periodontitis is a chronic condition involving progressive loss of the supporting tissues and bone around the teeth.

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

• Bleeding during brushing or interdental cleaning

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Gum recession and exposed root surfaces

• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste

• Newly developed spaces between teeth

• Loose teeth

• Discomfort while chewing

• Bleeding, swelling, or discharge around dental implants

Gum disease may not cause noticeable pain until it has progressed. Bleeding gums should not be considered normal, and the underlying cause should be evaluated.

What Is the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque and can generally be reversed through professional cleaning and effective home care. Periodontitis, however, involves loss of the bone and connective tissues supporting the teeth. Lost supporting tissues do not regenerate spontaneously, but the progression of the disease can be controlled through professional treatment and regular periodontal maintenance.

What Are the Risk Factors?

• Inadequate oral hygiene

• Smoking

• Poorly controlled diabetes

• Genetic predisposition

• Certain medications and dry mouth

• Stress and general health conditions

• Improper or poorly fitting restorations

• Irregular professional dental care

How Is a Periodontal Examination Performed?

Gum bleeding, periodontal pocket depth, recession, tooth mobility, and plaque accumulation are assessed. When necessary, radiographic imaging may be used to evaluate bone levels. A treatment plan is then developed according to the extent and severity of the disease and the patient's individual risk factors.

What Is Scaling?

Dental calculus, also known as tartar, is mineralised bacterial plaque that cannot be removed by brushing alone. During professional cleaning, plaque and calculus are removed from the tooth surfaces. The purpose of the procedure is not to scrape or thin the enamel, but to remove deposits that contribute to periodontal disease.

Deep Cleaning and Root Planing

In areas affected by periodontitis, it may be necessary to remove plaque and calculus from beneath the gum line and clean contaminated root surfaces. Treatment may be performed in one or more sessions. Periodontal pocket depths, bleeding, and improvements in oral hygiene are subsequently reassessed.

When May Periodontal Surgery Be Necessary?

If deep periodontal pockets, inaccessible deposits, certain bone defects, or gum recession remain after non-surgical periodontal treatment, surgical options may be considered. The aim may be to improve access to the affected area, make the area easier to clean, or support lost tissues in selected cases.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Periodontal disease, traumatic brushing, thin gum tissue, tooth position, orthodontic movement, or unsuitable restorations may contribute to gum recession. If recession causes sensitivity, increases the risk of root decay, or creates an aesthetic concern, appropriate treatment options can be evaluated. Not every case of gum recession requires a graft.

What Is a Gum Graft?

A gum graft may be performed to increase the thickness of the soft tissue in an area affected by recession or to partially or completely cover an exposed root surface. The outcome depends on factors including the type of recession, tooth position, tissue characteristics, and oral hygiene conditions.

Is Laser Used in Periodontal Treatment?

Lasers may be used as an adjunct in certain soft tissue procedures. However, the fundamental treatment of periodontitis involves controlling bacterial plaque and calculus, maintaining effective home care, and managing relevant risk factors. Laser treatment is not necessary in every case and does not replace standard periodontal treatment on its own.

Gum Aesthetics and Gummy Smile

Excessive gum display when smiling may be related to gum levels, tooth eruption, lip movement, or jaw structure. The underlying cause should be identified before treatment. Gum contouring, orthodontic treatment, or other approaches may be considered individually or in combination when appropriate.

Peri-Implant Health

Peri-implant mucositis refers to inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding an implant, while peri-implantitis involves inflammation accompanied by bone loss. Early evaluation is important if there is bleeding, swelling, discharge, or bone loss around an implant. Like natural teeth, dental implants require regular cleaning and professional maintenance.

Periodontal Maintenance and Follow-Up

Following active treatment, a personalised periodontal maintenance schedule may be recommended. During these appointments, gum health, plaque control, and individual risk factors are reassessed. The appropriate follow-up interval varies from person to person.

Gum Care at Home

• Teeth should be brushed effectively twice a day.

• Interdental spaces should be cleaned using appropriately sized interdental brushes or dental floss.

• Smoking should be stopped.

• Systemic conditions such as diabetes should remain appropriately controlled.

• Recommended professional maintenance intervals should be followed.

Periodontal Evaluation at Ozant Dental Clinic

Following a clinical examination, risk assessment, and any necessary imaging, the stages of treatment are planned according to the individual's needs. Oral hygiene education, professional cleaning, non-surgical periodontal treatment, surgery when indicated, and regular maintenance are complementary parts of periodontal care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bleeding From the Gums Normal?

No. Bleeding may be a sign of inflammation or another underlying problem and should be evaluated.

Does Scaling Damage the Teeth?

Professional scaling performed using appropriate techniques is intended to remove calculus and is not performed to thin or damage tooth enamel.

Can Periodontitis Be Completely Cured?

Supporting tissues that have already been lost do not regenerate spontaneously. However, the disease can be controlled through professional treatment and regular periodontal maintenance.

Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

Not every case of gum recession resolves on its own. Depending on the cause and tissue characteristics, monitoring, sensitivity management, or surgical treatment options may be considered.

Is Bleeding Around a Dental Implant Important?

Yes. Bleeding may be an early sign of inflammation around the implant and should be evaluated.

Appointments and Evaluation

If you are experiencing bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or problems around dental implants, you can submit an appointment request for an evaluation.

Medical Information

This content has been prepared for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for a clinical examination, diagnosis, or an individualised treatment plan. The appropriate approach is determined by evaluating oral and dental health, general health status, clinical findings, and individual needs. This content does not guarantee a specific treatment outcome, duration of results, or suitability of any treatment for every patient.

Last updated: August 30, 2026