Our mouth is full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus, saliva and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “plaque” on our teeth. Brushing help get rid of plaque but it can’t always successfully remove all bacteria. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form “tartar” that toothbrush alone couldn’t reach and remove underneath our gums. Only a professional cleaning by a periodontist can remove the ‘’hidden’’ tartar and effectively remove all bacteria.
The longer plaque and tartar ‘‘stay’’ glued on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria underneath our gums cause inflammation, the gums become red, swollen and can bleed easily. This early stage of gum disease is called ‘gingivitis’. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and regular cleaning by a periodontist.
The symptoms of gingivitis are somewhat non-specific and manifest in the gum tissue as the classic signs of inflammation:
Risk factors associated with gingivitis are:
If diagnosis happens early, and if treatment is prompt and proper, gingivitis can be successfully reversed. The focus of treatment is to remove plaque. The procedure may be performed using manual instruments, a laser or an ultrasonic device, depending on the severity of each case.
Therapy is aimed at the reduction of oral bacteria, and may take the form of regular periodic visits (every 6 months) to a periodontist together with proper daily oral hygiene at home. Flossing and interdental brushes also help remove any causative agents such as food and other debris trapped in between our teeth in the long run.
Fixing any damaged teeth also contributes to oral hygiene. Some dental problems such as badly fitted crowns or bridges make it harder to properly remove plaque and tartar around the teeth on a daily basis, causing chronic gum inflammation
Dr. Anastasios Mamalis Periodontotist – Dental Surgeon BSS DDS MBA MSC PH
At “Athens Perio Μάμαλης Αναστάστιος” we have all the high-end dental equipment.
We will contact you in 24 hours so as to schedule your appointment or call us at +30210 7297771
2 Papadiamantopoulou Str. and Vasilisis Sofias Av., Athens
+302107297771
mamalis@athensperio.gr