The therapy of bleeding gums
Before starting the actual treatment of bleeding gums, the search for the cause is the main focus. Only with the knowledge of the reason for the gum bleeding can a recurrence of the symptom be prevented after successful therapy (targeted prophylaxis). For this reason, a comprehensive screening is usually carried out first.
Screening in this case means that both the condition of the teeth and the gums are precisely assessed. On the one hand, the depth and extent of possible gum pockets are measured, and on the other hand the other sections of the periodontium (for example the jawbone) must also be examined. The exact depth of the pockets is determined by inserting a narrow, scaled probe between the tooth substance and the gums.
This is usually painless for the patient and the function of the periodontium is not affected during the measurement. In addition, a microbial test can be carried out during the preliminary examinations to determine the exact germ count. In this test, absorbent paper pens are briefly inserted into the gum pockets and then checked for germs in the laboratory.
In severe cases, it is also recommended to take an X-ray (OPG), which shows the teeth and bones of the jaw. This x-ray can be used to assess the condition of the skeleton and to estimate the extent to which the inflammatory processes have already spread. The therapy of gum bleeding can basically be carried out by any dentist in private practice.
However, in particularly pronounced cases or if the inflammatory processes have spread to the jawbone, it is recommended to consult a special periodontist (periodontist). During the therapy itself, a so-called Professional Tooth Cleaning (PZR) is normally performed. Each individual tooth is cleaned from all sides during this dental cleaning.
The treating dentist uses special instruments (curettes) for this purpose.Due to their individual grinding, the curettes are able to remove soft (plaque) as well as hard (tartar) plaque from the tooth surface. Some dentists perform professional tooth cleaning using a “sandblaster” (Air Flow). The costs of professional tooth cleaning are usually not covered by the public health insurance. However, most supplementary dental insurances cover the costs associated with this procedure. On average, these costs amount to between 70 and 150 euros.
