Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. At Smile Haus Dentistry in DHA Phase 5, Lahore, we help patients prevent, diagnose, and treat gum disease with advanced techniques. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about gum disease in 2026.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It's caused by plaque buildup — a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed through proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by dentists in Lahore during professional cleanings.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: Early, reversible stage with inflammation of the gums
- Periodontitis: Advanced stage where bone and tissue supporting teeth are damaged
Early Warning Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Many people don't realize they have gum disease because early symptoms can be subtle. If you're searching for "dentists near me" due to any of these signs, it's time to schedule a dental checkup at our clinic in DHA Lahore:
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed during brushing, flossing, or eating
- Red or Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm, not red and puffy
- Tender Gums: Pain or sensitivity in the gum tissue
- Receding Gums: Gums pulling away from teeth, making teeth appear longer
- Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic halitosis that doesn't improve with brushing
- Loose Teeth: Teeth that feel loose or are shifting position
- Pus Between Teeth: White or yellowish discharge from gums
- Changes in Bite: Teeth fitting together differently when you bite
- Painful Chewing: Discomfort when eating
- Sensitive Teeth: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact dental clinics near me in DHA Phase 5 for an immediate evaluation.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Understanding the causes helps prevent gum disease. Our experienced dentists in Lahore identify these common risk factors:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allows plaque buildup
- Smoking and Tobacco Use: Significantly increases risk and slows healing
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar weakens gum tissue resistance
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and puberty affect gum health
- Medications: Some drugs reduce saliva flow, affecting gum protection
- Poor Nutrition: Vitamin C deficiency weakens gums and slows healing
- Stress: Weakens immune system, making it harder to fight infection
- Teeth Grinding: Puts excessive force on teeth and supporting tissues
- Crooked Teeth: Harder to clean, increasing plaque accumulation
- Certain Illnesses: HIV, cancer, and autoimmune diseases increase risk
Stages of Gum Disease
Understanding the progression helps catch problems early:
Stage 1: Gingivitis (Reversible)
- Gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily
- No bone or tissue damage yet
- Can be reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care
- Treatment at our dental clinic in DHA typically takes 1-2 visits
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
- Infection spreads below gum line
- Bone and tissue begin to deteriorate
- Pockets form between teeth and gums (4-5mm deep)
- Requires deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
- Significant bone loss occurs
- Deeper pockets (6-7mm)
- Teeth may start to loosen
- May require surgical intervention
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
- Severe bone and tissue loss
- Teeth become very loose or fall out
- Deep pockets (8mm+) that harbor infection
- May require tooth extraction and replacement with implants
How Dentists Diagnose Gum Disease
At Smile Haus Dentistry in DHA Lahore, we use advanced diagnostic methods:
- Visual Examination: Checking for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession
- Periodontal Probing: Measuring pocket depths around each tooth (normal: 1-3mm)
- Digital X-rays: Assessing bone loss beneath the gum line
- Medical History Review: Identifying risk factors and contributing conditions
- Bacterial Testing: In severe cases, identifying specific bacteria present
Treatment Options for Gum Disease in 2026
Modern treatment at dental clinics near me in DHA Phase 5 includes:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Professional Cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar for gingivitis (PKR 3,000-5,000)
- Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning below gum line to remove bacteria and smooth roots (PKR 8,000-15,000 per quadrant)
- Antibiotic Therapy: Topical or oral antibiotics to control bacterial infection
- Laser Therapy: Modern laser treatment to remove diseased tissue and bacteria
Surgical Treatments (Advanced Cases)
- Flap Surgery: Lifting gums to clean deep pockets and reposition gum tissue
- Bone Grafts: Replacing lost bone to stabilize teeth
- Soft Tissue Grafts: Covering exposed roots and rebuilding gum tissue
- Guided Tissue Regeneration: Encouraging natural bone and tissue regrowth
- Tooth Extraction: Removing severely damaged teeth and replacing with dental implants
Prevention: How to Avoid Gum Disease
Prevention is always better than treatment. Follow these expert tips from dentists in DHA Lahore:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled brush for 2 minutes each time
- Floss Daily: Remove plaque between teeth where brushes can't reach
- Use Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Helps reduce bacteria and freshen breath
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit dental clinics near me every 6 months for professional cleaning
- Quit Smoking: Tobacco use is one of the biggest risk factors
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in vitamins C and D for gum health
- Manage Stress: High stress levels weaken your immune system
- Control Blood Sugar: Essential for diabetics to prevent complications
- Stay Hydrated: Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria
- Replace Your Toothbrush: Every 3-4 months or when bristles fray
Gum Disease and Overall Health Connection
Recent research shows strong links between gum disease and systemic health:
- Heart Disease: Bacteria from gums can enter bloodstream and affect heart
- Diabetes: Gum disease makes it harder to control blood sugar levels
- Respiratory Issues: Bacteria can be inhaled into lungs
- Pregnancy Complications: Linked to premature birth and low birth weight
- Stroke: Increased risk due to inflammation and bacteria
- Alzheimer's Disease: Studies suggest possible connection
Recovery and Maintenance After Treatment
After gum disease treatment at our clinic in DHA Lahore:
- Follow all aftercare instructions from your dentist
- Expect some sensitivity and mild discomfort for a few days
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent recurrence
- Attend all follow-up appointments (typically every 3-4 months initially)
- Use prescribed medications or special mouthwashes as directed
- Most patients see significant improvement within 2-4 weeks
Cost of Gum Disease Treatment in Lahore
Treatment costs at dental clinics in DHA Lahore vary by severity:
- Basic Cleaning (Gingivitis): PKR 3,000 - 5,000
- Scaling and Root Planing: PKR 8,000 - 15,000 per quadrant
- Laser Gum Therapy: PKR 15,000 - 30,000
- Flap Surgery: PKR 25,000 - 50,000 per quadrant
- Bone Grafts: PKR 30,000 - 60,000
- Soft Tissue Grafts: PKR 20,000 - 40,000
Why Choose Smile Haus Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment?
When searching for "dentists near me" or "dental clinics near me" for gum disease treatment in DHA Lahore, choose Smile Haus because:
- Experienced periodontists specializing in gum health
- Advanced diagnostic technology including digital X-rays
- Modern treatment options including laser therapy
- Convenient location in DHA Phase 5, Lahore
- Comprehensive follow-up care and maintenance programs
- Flexible payment plans for treatment
- Emergency dental care available 7 days a week including Sundays
Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease
Can gum disease be cured completely?
Gingivitis (early stage) can be completely reversed with professional cleaning and good oral hygiene. Advanced periodontitis cannot be "cured," but it can be effectively managed and controlled by dentists in DHA Lahore to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
Is gum disease painful?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) is often painless, which is why many people don't realize they have it. Advanced periodontitis can cause discomfort, tooth sensitivity, and pain when chewing. If you're experiencing gum pain, search for "dental clinics near me" in DHA Lahore for immediate evaluation.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on severity. Gingivitis can be treated in 1-2 visits at dental clinics in DHA Phase 5. Scaling and root planing typically requires 2-4 visits. Advanced cases may need several months of treatment including surgical procedures and regular follow-ups every 3-4 months.
Can I lose my teeth from gum disease?
Yes, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. As the disease progresses, it destroys the bone and tissue supporting your teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out. However, with early detection and treatment by experienced dentists near me, tooth loss can be prevented.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
At Smile Haus Dentistry in DHA Lahore, we use local anesthesia to ensure comfortable treatment. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after scaling and root planing, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery.
Will my gums grow back after treatment?
Gum tissue doesn't naturally regenerate once lost. However, modern treatments like soft tissue grafts performed by dentists in DHA Lahore can restore gum tissue and cover exposed roots. The key is catching gum disease early before significant tissue loss occurs.
How often should I see a dentist if I have gum disease?
After initial treatment, patients with gum disease typically need professional cleanings every 3-4 months (instead of the standard 6 months). Your dentist at our clinic in DHA Phase 5 will create a personalized maintenance schedule based on your condition's severity and response to treatment.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes, research shows strong links between gum disease and serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, respiratory problems, and pregnancy complications. Bacteria from infected gums can enter your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. Treating gum disease is essential for both oral and overall health.
Is gum disease contagious?
While gum disease itself isn't contagious, the bacteria that cause it can be transferred through saliva (such as kissing or sharing utensils). If one family member has gum disease, other family members should be extra vigilant about oral hygiene and regular checkups at dental clinics near me.
Does smoking make gum disease worse?
Yes, smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for gum disease. It weakens your immune system, reduces blood flow to gums, and interferes with healing after treatment. Smokers are 2-3 times more likely to develop gum disease than non-smokers. Dentists in Lahore strongly recommend quitting smoking for optimal gum health.
Can I still get dental implants if I have gum disease?
Gum disease must be treated and controlled before dental implant placement. Active gum disease significantly increases implant failure risk. At Smile Haus Dentistry in DHA Phase 5, we ensure your gums are healthy before proceeding with implants to maximize success rates.
Where can I find the best gum disease treatment in Lahore?
Smile Haus Dentistry in DHA Phase 5 offers comprehensive gum disease treatment with experienced periodontists, advanced technology, and personalized care. Search for "dentists near me" and you'll find our conveniently located clinic with emergency services available 7 days a week including Sundays. Call +92 314 7333945 to schedule your gum health evaluation.
Conclusion
Gum disease is a serious but preventable condition. Early detection and treatment are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If you notice any warning signs like bleeding or swollen gums, don't wait — schedule an appointment with experienced dentists in DHA Lahore immediately.
At Smile Haus Dentistry, we provide comprehensive gum disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment using the latest techniques. Our team is committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health throughout 2026 and beyond.
Ready to Improve Your Gum Health?
Schedule a comprehensive gum health evaluation at Smile Haus Dentistry in DHA Phase 5, Lahore.