Gum Care and Gum Disease Treatment in Bangalore
Medically reviewed by Dr Nikhitha Raghunath, BDS, MDS, KSDC Reg. No. 31715A
Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by plaque and tartar building up along the gum line. In its early stage (gingivitis), gums are red, swollen and bleed when you brush. This stage can be reversed with professional cleaning and good home care. Untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone that holds the teeth and can make teeth loose. At Contura Clinic, Bangalore, we treat gum disease with deep cleaning and regular maintenance.
Gingivitis or periodontitis?
| Gingivitis (early) | Periodontitis (advanced) | |
|---|---|---|
| Signs | Red, swollen gums that bleed on brushing | Receding gums, bad breath, pus, loose teeth, gaps forming |
| Bone damage | None | Yes |
| Reversible? | Yes, with cleaning and home care | Can be controlled, but lost bone doesn't grow back on its own |
| Treatment | Professional cleaning | Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), then regular maintenance |
Signs of gum disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bad breath that doesn't go away
- Gums pulling back from the teeth
- Loose teeth, or a change in how your teeth fit together
Who is at higher risk?
People who smoke or chew tobacco, people with diabetes, pregnant women (because of hormone changes), and people who don't brush and floss regularly. Gum disease has also been linked with diabetes and heart disease, so healthy gums support your overall health.
How is gum disease treated?
- Examination: the dentist measures the gum pockets around each tooth and may take X-rays.
- Deep cleaning: tartar is removed from above and below the gum line, and the root surfaces are smoothed (scaling and root planing), usually under local anaesthesia.
- Review: the gums are checked after a few weeks to see how they have healed.
- Maintenance: cleaning every 3–6 months keeps the disease under control.
Frequently asked questions
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum inflammation (gingivitis), caused by plaque along the gum line. Don't stop brushing. See your dentist for a cleaning.
Can gum disease be cured?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can be controlled with treatment and regular maintenance, but bone that has already been lost doesn't usually grow back on its own.
Is deep cleaning painful?
It is usually done under local anaesthesia, so it shouldn't hurt. Your gums may feel tender and your teeth sensitive for a few days afterwards.
Related pages: Teeth cleaning · Dental implants · Kids' dentistry · Dental care at Contura
About the doctor
Dr Nikhitha Raghunath, BDS (2013), MDS (2016), Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences. Fellowship in Restorative, Aesthetic and Laser Dentistry (SIMATS). Karnataka State Dental Council Reg. No. 31715A. Aesthetic dentist at Contura Clinic.
This page is for general information and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Results vary from person to person. Every procedure carries risks, which your dentist will explain at your consultation.