Gum Disease & Implants
When your teeth are sensitive and your gums bleed—things to know before periodontal treatment and implants.
The real reason teeth fall out is often due to gum disease, rather than cavities.
Bleeding gums, receding gums, tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth are signs of periodontitis. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
- Early stages (gingivitis) can be reversed with scaling and proper brushing — Scaling is covered by health insurance once a year.
- Advanced periodontitis requires staged treatments that remove tartar below the gums (such as root planing).
- Floss and interdental brushes are essential for preventing gum disease. People with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and gum disease can also worsen blood sugar levels, creating a two-way relationship.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Things to know before getting implants.
- For those aged 65 and over, health insurance covers up to 2 implants (with a 30% co-payment).
- Implants can also develop gum disease (peri-implantitis) — regular checkups and flossing after implantation are crucial for longevity.
- If you are taking osteoporosis injections or anticoagulants, be sure to inform the doctor before the procedure.
- Instead of choosing a hospital solely based on price, consider their post-treatment follow-up system as well. Significant differences in estimates, such as whether bone grafting is necessary, can be clarified through a second opinion.
Frequently asked questions
I heard that getting a scaling can cause tooth sensitivity and make the gaps between teeth wider.
As tartar is removed, areas that were previously covered become visible, which may temporarily cause sensitivity and the appearance of gaps. This does not mean that scaling has damaged your teeth. In fact, if you don't get regular cleanings, your gums will recede further.
Is it only possible to take gum medications like Insadol or Igatan?
It's only a supplement and cannot remove tartar. The causes of periodontitis (tartar and bacterial plaque) can only be removed through dental treatment.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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