GUM DISEASES How do gum diseases start? Majority of the gum diseases start as a result of the  dirt that accumulates on teeth and  the action of the bacteria which colonize this dirt. The physical irritation caused by the soft or hard dirt (plaque) and the  by-products of these bacteria cause the gum tissues to get inflamed initially and infected later. Are pigmented/black gums normal? Yes,  natural pigmentation on the gums is normal. Unsidhtly black pigmentation can be removed by a simple procedure When  is gum /flap surgery done? Flap surgery gets its  name because the gums are lifted up like a 'flap' during this procedure. This is done when the deep seated dirt can not be removed without lifting the gums up.( hard dirt can get deposited deep in the 'gum pockets' , where the unhealthy gums have become detached from the teeth .) Gum surgery , like any other modern dental procedure,  is painless.

GUM SURGERY Is bleeding  from gums normal? No, bleeding from the gums while brushing or otherwise indicates that the gums are unhealthy. The most common cause is infection of the gums and you must visit your dentist to get the problem corrected. How are gum diseases treated? The primary aim while treating gum diseases is to keep the teeth free from soft and hard dirt. A  "scaling " is done to remove any dirt present and the patient is taught to maintain the the teeth free of dirt by proper brushing and flossing. Medication may be needed to control the gum infection in certain cases. Gum surgery may be necessary to remove deep seated dirt. What are the benefits of gum surgery?    Other than being able to remove the deposits on the root of the teeth which are otherwise unreachable, unhealthy tissue can be trimmed to facilitate healing once the gums are lifted up.   Further it lets the dentist evaluate the exact amount of tissue destruction , including bone, due to the infection and helps plan further treatment .