Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults — and it's almost painless until late. The good news: the early stage is completely reversible.
The Two Stages
Gingivitis — gums are red, swollen, bleed on brushing. No bone loss yet. Fully reversible with professional cleaning + better home care.
Periodontitis — infection spreads below the gumline, forming pockets and destroying the bone holding teeth. Irreversible bone loss, but stoppable with treatment.
Warning Signs
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing (not "normal")
- Persistent bad breath that mouthwash doesn't fix
- Gums receding — teeth looking "longer"
- Gaps opening between teeth, or teeth feeling loose
- Pus between gum and tooth
The Treatment Ladder
- Scaling & polishing — removes tartar; resolves gingivitis
- Deep cleaning (SRP) — cleaning below the gumline under anaesthesia, smoothing roots so gums can re-attach
- Local medication — antibiotic fibres or gels placed in deep pockets
- Gum surgery (flap surgery) — for advanced pockets: gums are lifted, cleaned, and repositioned; sometimes with bone grafting
- Maintenance — 3-monthly professional cleanings keep it controlled for life
What Makes It Worse
- Smoking — the single biggest accelerant, and it hides bleeding so disease advances silently
- Diabetes — bidirectional: gum disease worsens sugar control and vice versa
- Pregnancy hormones — "pregnancy gingivitis" needs proactive cleaning
- Stress and genetics — some families are genuinely more susceptible
Home Care That Actually Works
- Soft brush, gentle circular strokes at the gumline — aggressive scrubbing causes recession
- Floss or interdental brushes daily — bleeding for the first week of flossing is normal and means it's working
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash only short-term (stains teeth) — your dentist will prescribe if needed
Gums bleeding when you brush? Book a gum health check with a periodontist on Odento.
Typical Cost in India
Scaling ₹1,000–₹3,000; deep cleaning ₹4,000–₹12,000; flap surgery ₹10,000–₹30,000 per quadrant.
Prices vary widely by city, clinic, material and case complexity — always confirm a written estimate before starting.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist
- Gingivitis or periodontitis — how advanced is my case?
- Deep cleaning or surgery — what's the plan and the cost?
- Does my diabetes/smoking change the treatment?
- How often do I need maintenance cleanings?
Trusted external resources
Odento procedure guides are educational, not a substitute for an examination — always consult a qualified dentist for your specific case.
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