Understanding gum disease
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, yet it is largely preventable and, when caught early, highly treatable. It progresses in two stages:
- Gingivitis: inflammation of the gum tissue, caused by bacterial plaque at the gum margin. Gums look red and bleed on brushing. Fully reversible with professional treatment and good home care.
- Periodontitis: inflammation has spread to the deeper supporting structures: the periodontal ligament and jaw bone. Bone is lost gradually, teeth become mobile, and may eventually be lost. Not reversible, but can be arrested and stabilised.
How we treat gum disease
- Periodontal assessment: full charting of pocket depths, bone levels, bleeding points, and mobility scores
- Professional cleaning (supragingival): removal of calculus and biofilm above the gum line
- Root surface debridement: deep cleaning below the gum line under local anaesthesia to remove deposits from root surfaces
- Re-assessment: pocket depths rechecked 6–8 weeks after active treatment
- Maintenance programme: regular periodontal maintenance appointments to stabilise the condition long-term
Periodontal care for tourists in Naples
Noticed bleeding gums or bad breath? A gum assessment and initial deep clean can be done within a single visit to Naples. Dr. Luca Marcato will give you a written treatment summary and maintenance plan to share with your dentist at home, so your care continues after you return.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Common signs include gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession (teeth looking longer), and in more advanced cases, loose teeth. Healthy gums don't bleed: any bleeding is a sign of inflammation worth investigating.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) is fully reversible with professional treatment and improved home care. Periodontitis (bone loss around teeth) cannot be reversed, but it can be arrested and maintained with treatment and regular follow-up. Early intervention gives the best outcome.
Does gum disease treatment hurt?
Professional cleaning above and below the gum line is generally comfortable. For deeper subgingival cleaning (root planing), local anaesthesia is used so you don't feel discomfort during the procedure. Post-treatment sensitivity typically settles within a few days.
Does smoking make gum disease worse?
Yes, significantly. Smoking is one of the main risk factors for periodontitis. It masks inflammation (so bleeding may be less obvious) while worsening bone destruction, and it reduces the effectiveness of periodontal treatment. Cutting down or stopping greatly improves the results.
Is there a link between gum disease and other health conditions?
Yes. Research shows strong associations between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other systemic conditions, so treating gum disease also matters for your general health.
Can I have periodontal treatment during a visit to Naples?
Yes. An initial consultation, gum assessment, and professional deep cleaning can all be scheduled within a short visit. We will also give you a clear home care plan and, if needed, refer you for ongoing maintenance at your dentist at home.
Related services
- Dental hygiene: routine professional cleaning as prevention
- Dental implants: gum disease must be treated before implant placement
- General dentistry: check-ups to monitor gum health over time