„My gums bleed or are receding“
When gums bleed or recede
Healthy gums don't bleed. If you notice blood on your toothbrush or floss, it is most often inflammation caused by plaque and tartar along the gum line. In the early stage this is called gingivitis, and it usually clears up after a thorough clean and better care at home. If it isn't treated, the inflammation can spread to the bone around the teeth. This is periodontitis: the gums recede, pockets form around the teeth, and over time the teeth may start to loosen.
Why it usually happens
- Tartar and plaque along the gum line that a toothbrush can't remove
- Smoking, which slows healing and often hides bleeding
- Hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy
- Diabetes and some medicines
- Brushing too hard with a hard brush, which makes gums recede
What we can do
Scale and polish
Jelena Tomić removes tartar above and just below the gum line and polishes your teeth. For mild inflammation this is often enough, together with better brushing at home.
Scale and polish5,500 RSDBook
Deep gum treatment
When pockets have formed around the teeth, we clean the roots below the gum under local anaesthetic. We divide the mouth into four parts, called quadrants, and usually treat one per visit.
Gum treatment (per quadrant)7,000 to 12,000 RSDBook
Maintenance
After treatment you come in for cleaning and pocket measurement every three to six months. That way, if the inflammation comes back, it is caught in time.
Scale and polish5,500 RSDBook
How it works with us
- 01
Measuring the pockets
With a thin probe we measure the space between tooth and gum at several points around each tooth. We record the results so we can compare them later.
- 02
Bone X-ray
A panoramic X-ray of the whole jaw (OPG) shows how much bone is left around the teeth.
- 03
Cleaning
First we remove the tartar above the gums and then, if needed, the deposits on the roots below the gums.
- 04
Care at home
We show you how to brush and how to use floss or interdental brushes – on your own teeth, not on a model.
- 05
Measuring again
After six to eight weeks we measure the pockets again and agree how often you should come in.
How long it takes
Basic gum treatment usually takes two to four visits of an hour each, with a follow-up check six to eight weeks later.
After treatment
Your gums may be tender for a few days, and your teeth may react to cold, because part of the root has been cleaned. As the inflammation settles, the gums tighten, so the spaces between your teeth may look slightly larger. Brush gently but regularly, and don't skip the spots that bleed. Get in touch if the bleeding hasn't stopped after a week or if swelling appears.
What it costs
A scale and polish costs RSD 5,500. Deep gum treatment is charged per quadrant, RSD 7,000–12,000, depending on how deep the pockets are and how many teeth are in that part of the jaw. A panoramic X-ray, if needed, costs RSD 3,000. You will know how many quadrants need treatment after the examination.
- Gum treatment (per quadrant)7,000 to 12,000 RSD
- Scale and polish5,500 RSD
Common questions
Is it normal for gums to bleed a little when I brush?
No, although it is common. Bleeding is a sign of inflammation, and at an early stage it usually clears up after a clean and better care at home.
Can receding gums grow back?
A gum that has receded usually doesn't grow back on its own. Treatment usually stops it receding further. For larger recession there are surgical procedures, and your dentist will talk to you about them after the examination.
Do I have to stop smoking?
We don't make it a condition, but it is only fair that you know: in smokers, gums heal more slowly and treatment gives weaker results. If you are trying to quit anyway, this is a good moment.
This text is a general explanation and not a substitute for a check-up. Your dentist will tell you what is best for you after examining you.
First time with us?
Choose “First check-up and treatment plan”. If you are not sure, call us.