Care for your gums to protect your smile
Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and tissues supporting teeth and implants.
Periodontics focuses on gum health and the bone supporting teeth. Periodontal inflammation can progress without pain and remain unnoticed for a long time, making early detection essential.
At Centre Dental Vilanova, we assess each case through clinical examination, periodontal probing and necessary radiographs. Our aim is to control infection, preserve teeth and maintain results over time.
Gingivitis and periodontitis
Gingivitis
Superficial gum inflammation usually associated with plaque accumulation. It can cause redness, swelling or bleeding. When treated early and hygiene improves, it is usually reversible.
Periodontitis
Occurs when inflammation affects deeper tissues, causing loss of support around teeth. It may lead to gum recession, gaps, mobility or, in advanced stages, tooth loss. Lost bone does not regrow spontaneously, but treatment may help stop or control progression.
Peri-implantitis
Inflammation of the tissues surrounding an implant, which may involve bone loss. Early diagnosis and treatment are needed to try to control infection and protect the implant.
Gum recession
The gum may recede, exposing part of the root. Causes include traumatic brushing, tooth position, gum tissue type and periodontal disease. Treatment depends on the cause and symptoms.
Warning signs
- Bleeding during brushing or spontaneously.
- Red, swollen or sensitive gums.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer.
- Loose or shifting teeth.
- Gaps developing between teeth.
- Pus or discomfort around teeth or implants.
Absence of pain does not mean gums are healthy. Many periodontal diseases progress silently.
Periodontal diagnosis
- Clinical examination. We assess gum appearance, plaque, bleeding, mobility and other signs.
- Periodontal probing. We gently measure depth around each tooth to detect pockets and record tissue condition.
- Radiographs. Help evaluate bone levels and the extent of the problem.
- Risk factors. We review hygiene, smoking, diabetes, medication, history and other relevant circumstances.
- Personalised plan. We explain the diagnosis, treatment stages and recommended maintenance frequency.
Periodontal treatments
Plaque control and personalised hygiene
We teach brushing and interdental cleaning techniques adapted to each mouth. Professional treatment becomes less effective without good daily plaque control.
Scaling and root planing
Deep cleaning below the gum to remove deposits and biofilm from root surfaces. It may be performed in sections and under local anaesthesia when needed.
Periodontal reassessment
After initial treatment, we remeasure the gums to assess the response and decide whether further treatment is needed.
Periodontal surgery
In some cases, surgery may be indicated to reach deep areas, reduce pockets, treat defects or attempt tissue regeneration. Suitability depends on anatomy and each tooth’s prognosis.
Peri-implantitis treatment
May include plaque control, cleaning of the implant surface and, depending on the case, surgery. Results depend on lesion extent and risk factors.
Periodontal maintenance
Regular visits are essential once disease is controlled. Intervals are usually three to six months, according to each patient’s risk and stability.
Prevention and risk factors
- Brush carefully twice daily.
- Clean between teeth using the recommended method.
- Attend check-ups and professional maintenance.
- Avoid smoking.
- Keep diabetes well controlled.
- Seek advice for bleeding, mobility or gum changes.
Smoking and poorly controlled diabetes may increase risk and reduce treatment response. Review intervals vary between patients.
Clinical cases
