Gum Curettage

Gum curettage, also called root planing, is the basic treatment for gum disease. It removes plaque and tartar that have built up below the gum margin, in the periodontal pockets, and smooths the roots of the teeth to let the gum reattach and the inflammation settle. In our Tirana clinics it is performed by European trained doctors and hygienists, with ultrasonic and hand instruments, under local anaesthesia.

What is gum disease?

Periodontitis is a chronic infection of the tissues that support the teeth, caused by plaque bacteria organised below the gum. If untreated, it progressively destroys the bone around the roots: teeth become loose and can be lost even though they are healthy. The signs are bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, teeth that seem to get longer and, in advanced stages, mobility. It is a frequent and silent disease, but with early diagnosis and curettage it can be stopped.

When is curettage indicated?

Curettage is indicated when periodontal probing finds pockets deeper than three or four millimetres, with bleeding and tartar below the gum. It is also an essential prerequisite before placing implants or making prosthetics in a mouth affected by periodontitis, because the bacteria would compromise the result. During the free consultation, with a panoramic radiograph and photos, the doctor assesses the signs of the disease and schedules the necessary therapy.

How is the treatment carried out in our Tirana clinics?

The first session includes periodontal probing, which measures the depth of the pockets tooth by tooth, and radiographs to assess the bone. The actual treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, by quadrants, with ultrasonic instruments that break up the tartar and hand curettes that smooth the root. At the end the doctor applies an antiseptic and explains the home hygiene techniques suited to your case, with toothbrush, interdental brushes and mouthwash. All explanations are in your language.

How long does it take?

Complete curettage usually requires two appointments, one per side or one per arch, during the same stay in Tirana. After about six to eight weeks the doctor reassesses the pockets, by video call or during the next stay, and decides whether the disease is under control or whether some areas need additional treatment. Curettage is often combined with other care during the same trip.

What are the advantages?

Curettage stops the progression of periodontitis, eliminates bleeding and bad breath, reduces tooth mobility and preserves the bone, avoiding extractions. It also improves general health, because gum inflammation is linked to cardiovascular problems and diabetes. It is a minimally invasive, well tolerated treatment with benefits that last over time when accompanied by good hygiene.

What should you do after the treatment?

In the first days the gums may be slightly tender and the teeth may react to cold; these symptoms disappear quickly. It is essential to follow the hygiene instructions consistently and to schedule maintenance sessions every three to six months, which can also be done by your trusted hygienist at home on the instructions of our doctor, who remains your point of contact.

How much does it cost?

We do not publish prices and we do not send quotes by email, because a price given without seeing the patient's mouth is not a quote but a promise that often changes once you are in the chair. The cost of the treatment is explained by our dental surgeon and implantologist, who speaks Italian and English, after your free consultation: online by video call or directly at the clinic in Tirana. You receive the treatment plan and the cost in writing, item by item, and from that moment they do not change. No surprises, no hidden costs, no salespeople: only a doctor who explains what you really need.