Gum disease treatment in Lugano
Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions in adults and one of the leading causes of tooth loss worldwide. At Alpine Smiles in Lugano, we treat all stages of gum disease with a clinically structured, minimally invasive approach designed to stop progression, restore gum health, and protect your teeth for the long term.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, a mild inflammation of the gums that causes redness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition where the infection spreads below the gumline and begins to destroy the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth in place.
Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, which means many patients are unaware they have it until significant damage has already occurred. Regular check-ups and professional hygiene appointments are the most reliable way to catch and treat it early.
Signs and symptoms to look out for
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossingRed, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted positionSensitivity to temperature or pressure
- Visible tartar buildup along the gumline
If you notice any of these signs, we recommend booking an appointment as soon as possible. Early treatment is significantly more straightforward than treating advanced periodontitis.
Causes and risk factors
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gumline. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional hygiene, it hardens into tartar which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing gum disease include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy, certain medications, genetic predisposition, and poor oral hygiene. Misaligned or crowded teeth can also make it harder to clean effectively, increasing the risk of plaque accumulation.
How we treat gum disease at Alpine Smiles
01
Professional deep cleaning
For early to moderate gum disease, a thorough professional cleaning known as scaling and root planing is the primary treatment. We remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooth the root surfaces to help the gums reattach and reduce the environment where bacteria thrive.
02
Personalised hygiene guidance
We provide detailed guidance on your home oral care routine, including brushing technique, interdental cleaning, and the use of antibacterial rinses where appropriate. Good home care is essential to prevent recurrence.
03
Ongoing monitoring and maintenance
Following initial treatment, regular monitoring appointments allow us to track your gum health and intervene early if there are any signs of recurrence. For patients with a history of periodontitis, more frequent hygiene appointments may be recommended.
04
Surgical options for advanced cases
In cases where non-surgical treatment is not sufficient to restore gum health, surgical intervention may be recommended. We will refer you to the appropriate specialist and coordinate your care throughout the process.
The connection between gum health and general health
Research consistently shows a strong link between gum disease and systemic health conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and complications during pregnancy. Treating and maintaining healthy gums is not just about protecting your teeth. It is an important part of looking after your overall health.
Gum disease and orthodontic treatment
Healthy gums are a prerequisite for orthodontic treatment. If you are considering Invisalign or braces, we will assess your gum health as part of your initial consultation. In some cases, gum disease must be treated and stabilised before orthodontic treatment can begin. We coordinate your care to ensure the best possible outcome for both your gum health and your smile.
Your gum health in Lugano
At Alpine Smiles, gum health is treated as a fundamental part of overall dental care. Whether you are coming for a routine check-up or have noticed symptoms that concern you, our team will assess your gum health thoroughly and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Early treatment makes a significant difference. Do not wait until symptoms become severe.
FAQ
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is fully reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Periodontitis, the more advanced stage, is not fully reversible but can be effectively managed and stabilised to prevent further progression.
Does gum treatment hurt?
We use local anaesthetic for deep cleaning procedures to ensure you are comfortable throughout. Some mild sensitivity is normal in the days following treatment but this settles quickly.
How often should I come in if I have a history of gum disease?
Most patients with a history of periodontitis benefit from professional hygiene appointments every three to four months rather than the standard six. Your clinician will advise the right interval for your specific situation.
Can gum disease come back after treatment?
Sì, la malattia parodontale può recidivare se l'igiene domiciliare si deteriora o i fattori di rischio non vengono gestiti. Per questo motivo il monitoraggio regolare e l'igiene professionale sono così importanti dopo il trattamento.
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Find our clinic
We are at: Via Pico 19, 6900 Lugano - Switzerland
Bus
Take Bus No. 3 to Cassarate, Scuole and walk approximately 3 minutes along Via del Tiglio, or take Bus No. 2 to Cassarate, Monte Brè followed by a 5-minute uphill walk along Via Pico to our clinic.
Bicycle
Bike kiosks are available at Parco Giochi on Via del Tiglio, just around the corner from Alpine Smiles.
Parking
We have two private parking spots directly in front of the clinic. Free blue zone parking is also available on the surrounding streets. The nearest paid car park is Parcheggio Piazza Riscossa.
Ferry
Take the ferry to the Cassarate stop, next to the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola and the Funicolare Monte Brè. From there follow Via Pico uphill to our clinic.
