Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Discover how Makati periodontal specialists diagnose, treat, and prevent gum disease.
Understanding Gum Disease Stages
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease — inflammation caused by plaque buildup. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing. Gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage where bacteria destroy the bone and ligaments supporting teeth. Gums recede, pockets deepen, and teeth may loosen. Periodontitis requires professional intervention and is managed but not fully reversible.
Advanced periodontitis causes significant bone loss, tooth mobility, and eventual tooth loss. At this stage, complex periodontal surgery, bone grafting, or tooth replacement with implants becomes necessary. Early detection at Makati dental clinics prevents progression.
Treatment Options in Makati
Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is the first-line treatment for periodontitis. Your Makati periodontist cleans above and below the gumline, removing calculus and smoothing root surfaces. Cost ranges from PHP 3,000–8,000 per quadrant.
LANAP laser gum therapy is available at select Makati clinics. This minimally invasive treatment removes diseased tissue and stimulates bone regeneration without cutting or sutures. Recovery is faster than traditional flap surgery.
Periodontal flap surgery is performed when deep pockets persist after initial treatment. The gum is gently lifted to access root surfaces for thorough cleaning, then repositioned. Gum grafting covers exposed roots and rebuilds lost tissue.
Prevention and Maintenance
Daily brushing with a soft brush, flossing between all teeth, and using antimicrobial mouthwash form the foundation of gum disease prevention.
After gum disease treatment, periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months are essential. These appointments remove plaque and calculus from deep pockets before bacteria can re-establish.
Smoking is the single greatest risk factor for gum disease. Smokers have 3x higher risk and heal more slowly. Quitting smoking is the most impactful step you can take to protect your gums after Makati periodontal treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Gingivitis is reversible; periodontitis requires professional treatment in Makati
- Deep cleaning in Makati costs PHP 3K-8K per quadrant
- LANAP laser therapy offers faster recovery than traditional gum surgery
- Periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months prevents recurrence
- Smoking triples gum disease risk and impairs healing