What does a specialist periodontist do?

A specialist periodontist diagnoses and treats diseases of the gums and the tissues that support the teeth (bone, periodontal ligament); they treat gum recession, periodontitis and peri-implantitis, and perform gum grafts and implant surgery.

Can gum recession be treated?

Yes. In suitable cases, exposed root surfaces can be covered using periodontal plastic surgery techniques such as connective tissue grafts, the coronally advanced flap or the modified tunnel technique.

Specialist Periodontist Istanbul

Q: Does scaling (tartar removal) cure periodontitis?

Not always. Periodontitis requires cleaning of the biofilm below the gum line (subgingival instrumentation), re-evaluation and, if necessary, surgical treatment.

In short: Periodontology is the dental specialty that deals with diseases of the tissues supporting the teeth (gums, bone, periodontal ligament, cementum). At our clinic, treatment is planned in the sequence accurate diagnosis → disease control → re-evaluation → surgery if needed → long-term maintenance, in line with the EFP S3 guidelines. More information: gum disease guide.

Which symptoms mean you should see a periodontist?

Recurrent bleeding gums when brushing or flossing,
Gum recession, teeth that look longer, sensitivity to hot and cold,
Persistent bad breath, loose teeth or gaps opening between teeth,
Bleeding, swelling or discharge around an implant (peri-implantitis),
Gum assessment before implants, zirconia crowns or orthodontics.

Periodontal treatment methods

1. Non-surgical periodontal treatment

Removal of tartar and the biofilm below the gum line (subgingival instrumentation, root surface debridement) and oral hygiene instruction. A re-evaluation is carried out after 6–8 weeks.

2. Periodontal surgery

If deep pockets persist, flap surgery, resective or regenerative surgery (bone graft, membrane) may be performed.

3. Periodontal plastic surgery: gum recession treatment

Exposed root surfaces are covered using techniques such as free gingival grafts, connective tissue grafts, the coronally advanced flap and the modified tunnel technique. Dr. Bozaba’s case report on this topic was presented at the 6th International Hippocrates Congress (academic work).

4. Peri-implantitis treatment

For inflammation around implants, surface decontamination and, if necessary, surgical and regenerative treatment are applied. Gum health is critical in implant planning: All-on-4, All-on-6.

Periodontitis and general health

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that has been associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disease and pregnancy complications. Dr. Bozaba’s study published in Clinical Oral Investigations showed that salivary irisin and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with advanced periodontitis than in healthy individuals. Smoking is one of the most important environmental factors that worsen the progression of periodontal disease and the response to treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Are bleeding gums normal?

No. Recurrent bleeding is a sign of gum inflammation; if it continues despite regular brushing, a periodontal examination is needed.

Does gum disease cause pain?

It often progresses without pain; that is why symptoms such as bleeding, recession and bad breath should be taken seriously.

Are check-ups needed after gum treatment?

Yes. Periodontal maintenance every 3–6 months is recommended to prevent the disease from recurring.

Author and medical review: Dr. Dt. Mehmet Fuat BozabaSpecialist in periodontology (İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi) · Last updated: September 2026 · Academic publications and certificates

Sources: Lindhe’s Clinical Periodontology and Implant Dentistry (7th edition, 2022); Carranza’s Clinical Periodontology (13th edition); 2017 World Workshop classification; EFP S3 Clinical Practice Guidelines. This page is for information only.