Periodontology

    Professional Dental Scaling

    Dental calculus, or tartar, forms when dental plaque that is not removed from the surfaces of teeth or prosthetic restorations in a timely manner becomes mineralized. Under the influence of mineral components present in saliva, soft dental plaque hardens and develops into calculus.

    Because dental calculus provides a favorable environment for the accumulation of bacteria, it can initially cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). If left untreated, it may lead to gum bleeding and gingival recession and, in more advanced cases, to periodontitis, bone loss, and even tooth loss.

    Professional dental scaling helps restore gum health and also removes superficial pigment stains caused by the consumption of tea, coffee, tobacco, and other staining substances. It should be noted that gingival recession that has already occurred does not resolve spontaneously following dental scaling; however, the procedure can help prevent further progression of the disease.

    Tissue Transplantation (Grafting)

    Tissue transplantation, or grafting, is performed using grafts obtained from various sources to reconstruct lost soft tissue and bone.

    Soft-Tissue Grafting

    This procedure may be recommended in the following situations:

    • Gingival recession: to alleviate sensitivity in exposed tooth roots and restore a natural appearance;

    • Insufficient or absent attached gingiva: to help prevent the progression of periodontal disease;

    • Patients with a thin gingival biotype: particularly before implant placement, to reduce the risk of potential complications.

    Bone Grafting

    Bone grafting is widely used to treat bone defects around teeth and in situations where the volume of bone needs to be increased before the placement of dental implants.

    Pink Esthetics

    Pink esthetics refers to the harmonious proportions and relationship among the gums, teeth, and lips that contribute to an attractive smile. 

    This assessment takes into account the size, position, and symmetry of the teeth and gingiva.

    In cases of gingival recession, the teeth may appear visually longer, whereas teeth that have not completed passive eruption may appear short, square, or rectangular.

    Patients with a “gummy smile,” in which a significant amount of gingival tissue becomes visible when smiling, may often feel self-conscious and try to smile less openly. In many cases, such aesthetic concerns can be addressed with minor surgical procedures.

    Pink esthetic procedures are performed only when the gingival tissues are completely healthy.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    This is like asking, "If I clean my kitchen once, will I have to keep cleaning it forever?" Dental calculus (tartar) should not be allowed to accumulate. Whenever it forms, it should be removed by a dentist.

    To a large extent, yes—or at least you can minimize its formation. For tartar to develop, bacterial plaque must remain on the teeth without being removed for a period of time. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene can significantly delay the formation of tartar.

    When mature plaque is not removed—for example, if you repeatedly miss the same area while brushing—it begins to change in as little as three days, making it capable of causing gum disease and tooth decay. Within about five days, it starts to calcify into tartar that can no longer be removed with a toothbrush. Rather than relying on frequent professional cleanings, the healthier approach is to maintain good daily oral hygiene and minimize the need for tartar removal.

    No. Tartar itself is harmful, which is why it should always be removed once it has formed.

    Tartar can cause a gum disease called gingivitis, in which the gums become red and swollen. When the gums bleed, some people avoid brushing those areas instead of visiting a dentist, creating a vicious cycle. As gum disease progresses, the bone supporting the teeth begins to recede and deteriorate in response to the infection. This leads to periodontitis, which can progressively destroy the tissues supporting the teeth. As a result, the teeth may begin to separate, become loose, and, in advanced cases, eventually fall out.

    Some patients may experience sensitivity during the procedure. In such cases, a simple local anesthetic can be used to make the treatment comfortable.