Specialist care to protect your gums and retain your teeth.
If you are looking for a periodontist in Colombia because of bleeding, receding gums, persistent bad breath or loose teeth, assessment identifies the cause and guides treatment. We care for patients from Colombia and abroad; our team confirms the professional and procedures available at each clinic.
When should you see a periodontist?
Bleeding or inflammation
Gums that bleed when brushing, cleaning between teeth or spontaneously deserve examination. Bleeding alone cannot distinguish gingivitis from periodontitis.
Receding gums and sensitivity
Exposed roots, teeth that look longer or sensitivity may relate to gum recession. The cause and treatment are determined at consultation.
Persistent bad breath
If it persists despite oral hygiene, its origin should be investigated. It may have periodontal, dental or other causes requiring a different assessment.
Mobility or changes when biting
A loose or shifting tooth needs attention. The periodontist assesses its support and retention options without promising every tooth can be saved.
Periodontal disease can progress without pain. Seek prompt care for significant swelling, pus or severe pain; difficulty breathing or swallowing requires emergency care.
Dr. Johanna Calderón
Dentist trained at Universidad Antonio Nariño and specialist in Periodontics and Osseointegration at Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, according to her published professional qualifications.
Her practice includes periodontal disease and oral implantology. Professional assignment and availability are confirmed when arranging your appointment.
View qualifications and professional profilePeriodontics in Ibagué, Bogotá, Cali, Medellín, Barranquilla, Cartagena and Pereira
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry dealing with diseases that affect the supporting structures of the teeth. These include the gums, the periodontium—the tissues supporting the tooth—and the alveolar bone that houses and supports teeth in their sockets.
The periodontal treatments aim to prevent and control diseases of the gums and tooth-supporting tissues, limit the progression of bone loss and help retain teeth. They also remove tartar and reduce inflammation-related bleeding. Gum recession and bone defects require specific assessment; selected cases may benefit from periodontal plastic surgery or regenerative techniques.
Periodontist
A periodontist is a dentist specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and tooth-supporting tissues. These specialists treat periodontal conditions and perform surgery to maintain oral health. Advanced training supports specialized techniques for gum health, dental stability and smile aesthetics, helping retain teeth and care for dental implants. Outcomes depend on diagnosis, treatment response and maintenance.
Periodontal diseases
Changes in the balance of oral bacteria and the accumulation of bacterial plaque may cause inflammation and bleeding of the gums and lead to periodontal diseases, which affect the periodontium supporting the tooth. These range from milder conditions such as gingivitis to more severe disease such as periodontitis.
Gingivitis:
- It is inflammation of the gums that can be reversed with plaque control and professional care. It may cause redness, swelling and bleeding. Gingivitis itself does not involve loss of bone or the attachment supporting the tooth. If persistent, it may precede periodontitis in susceptible people, although not every case progresses.
Periodontitis:
- It is an inflammatory disease that destroys attachment and tooth-supporting bone, associated with bacterial plaque and the body’s response. It may develop when gum inflammation persists in a susceptible person; not every case of gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. Signs may include changes in gum colour, texture and shape, as well as bleeding or gum recession with clear exposure of the tooth root. Inflammation may create pockets in the gums that collect plaque . This sustains inflammation and can eventually damage tissues and bone around the tooth. Periodontitis is an important cause of tooth loss in adults.
With the development of implant dentistry, periodontics also addresses prevention and treatment of peri-implant diseases, which involve inflammation and infection of tissues supporting dental implants.
Gingivitis, periodontitis and receding gums
They may share symptoms but are different conditions. Periodontal examination and X-rays when needed distinguish them.
| Condition | What it affects | Treatment aim |
|---|---|---|
| Gingivitis | Gum inflammation without attachment or bone loss caused by this disease. | Control plaque and resolve inflammation through oral hygiene and professional care. |
| Periodontitis | Loss of supporting tissues and the bone holding teeth in place. | Control disease, limit progression and maintain long-term results. |
| Gum recession | Displacement of the gum exposing part of the root; it can have different causes. | Treat the cause and consider protection, sensitivity management or mucogingival surgery where appropriate. |
| Peri-implant disease | Tissues around an implant. Mucositis affects soft tissues; peri-implantitis includes bone loss. | Control inflammation and assess implant-specific treatment and maintenance. |
On mobile, swipe the table sideways. This comparison provides guidance and does not replace diagnosis.
Causes of periodontal disease
The development and progression of periodontal disease involve the following factors:
- Bacteria: Plaque is a sticky material containing bacteria, mucus and food debris that builds up on tooth surfaces. Its long-term effects include inflammation or infection of the gums , a major factor in these diseases.
- Aggravating factors: Several factors can worsen periodontal disease, including tobacco use and conditions such as diabetes. Diabetes, especially when poorly controlled, is associated with greater periodontitis risk and severity. Patients with diabetes may have a higher risk of periodontitis. Periodontal follow-up and coordination with the treating physician help organize care.
Dental implants
Urgent care
Dental cleaning
What types of periodontal treatment are available?
Periodontics includes different treatments according to disease type and severity. Periodontal treatments include:
Surgical periodontal treatments:
Some periodontal treatments require surgery. These include selected cases of gum recession. A gum graft can increase gum tissue and, in selected cases, cover part or all of an exposed root. It may help reduce tooth sensitivity and improve aesthetics. Possible coverage depends on the defect and diagnosis; recovery of lost bone is not guaranteed.
In some cases, excessive gum tissue covers the teeth. Surgical crown lengthening may be considered, removing excess gum tissue and exposing more of the tooth crown.
A range of surgical and non-surgical treatments help care for gums and teeth. However, all require routine oral hygiene at home and regular clinical reviews to achieve the intended results.
For appropriate hygiene, the recommendation is to brush at least twice a day for two minutes, morning and night, and floss once daily. Review and professional cleaning frequency should be individualized. After periodontitis treatment, maintenance may require more frequent reviews.
Non-surgical periodontal treatment:
Among periodontal treatments that do not require surgery, the most common is scaling and root planing, also called root debridement. It involves carefully cleaning root surfaces to remove accumulated plaque and tartar from periodontal pockets.
After instrumentation and risk factor control, the periodontist reassesses bleeding and pocket depth. If areas need another approach, additional treatment or periodontal surgery may be indicated. Deep pockets do not mean every patient needs the same operation.
What assessment includes and how treatment is organized
Understand the condition of your gums
Medical history, medications, risk factors, bleeding, pocket depth, recession and mobility are reviewed. A periodontal chart records measurements; X-rays are requested when indicated.
Control disease
The plan may include oral hygiene instructions, risk factor control and instrumentation of tooth and root surfaces. Medication is prescribed only when the professional considers it beneficial.
Check the response
Tissue response is reviewed. Some areas need additional treatment or surgery; grafts and regenerative procedures are considered according to the defect’s characteristics.
Protect the result
Periodontal follow-up and daily oral hygiene are part of treatment. Appointment frequency is adapted to risk and clinical response rather than applying the same interval to everyone.
| Care | Why it is considered |
|---|---|
| Professional cleaning | Remove deposits and help control inflammation according to gum condition. |
| Scaling and root instrumentation | Treat deposits and biofilm below the gum in areas affected by periodontitis. |
| Periodontal surgery | Access persistent defects or address specific problems after assessing treatment response. |
| Periodontal maintenance | Review stability, hygiene, risk factors and areas needing further intervention. |
Stages of periodontal treatment
People needing periodontal treatment are often unaware of their condition. This can happen with gingivitis, a reversible inflammation of the gum tissue around teeth, which is usually painless and has mild symptoms.
Gingivitis can be prevented and reversed with good oral hygiene and help from professionals such as periodontists and hygienists, who can remove tartar that causes gum irritation. Brushing and interdental cleaning help control plaque. Rinses may complement care when recommended by the professional; they do not replace mechanical cleaning or remove established tartar.
If untreated, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis. Healthy habits and regular dental visits can therefore improve the chances of successful treatment.
If periodontitis develops, treatment aims to clean pockets around the teeth and prevent damage to surrounding bone. When periodontitis is not very advanced, less invasive treatment may include:
Scaling and root planing:
To remove tartar and bacteria from tooth surfaces and below the gums. This uses hand instruments such as curettes and sonic or ultrasonic instruments, according to each area’s needs. Other technologies should be assessed for their clinical indication; they do not replace periodontal treatment on their own.
When periodontitis is advanced, surgical treatment may be needed. Options include:
Flap surgery
Gum grafts (soft tissue)
Bone grafts
Guided tissue regeneration
These techniques have different aims: facilitating cleaning in difficult-to-access areas, treating recession and, in selected defects, promoting regeneration of supporting tissues. Not every defect allows lost tissues to be recovered, and not every technique is indicated for each patient.
For more information about bone grafts, see our dental bone regeneration and bone graft guide.
Treatment stages depend on diagnosis and clinical response. Gingivitis can be reversed with plaque control and indicated care. Periodontitis needs treatment to control disease and long-term maintenance; it should not be presented as a permanent cure. Surgery is decided after assessment and reassessment, not solely from a severity label.
Benefits of periodontal treatment
Periodontal treatment focuses on gum health and tooth support. It may also improve chewing comfort, control bad breath of periodontal origin and, when indicated, improve gum appearance.
The main benefits of periodontal treatment include:
To achieve these benefits, appropriate treatment needs to be accompanied by good oral hygiene and regular specialist reviews.
How much does periodontal treatment cost in Colombia?
Cost depends on the diagnosis, affected teeth and areas, indicated treatment and required reviews. Cleaning, instrumentation in several areas, grafting and regenerative surgery are not equivalent procedures.
Request a proposal distinguishing assessment, studies, initial treatment, possible surgery and maintenance. If regeneration or grafting is indicated, confirm included materials and what may change after clinical evaluation.
| Item | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Assessment and studies | Consultation, periodontal records and indicated X-rays or other studies; which are included. |
| Initial treatment | Areas to treat, procedures, estimated appointments and reassessment. |
| Additional treatments | Indication for surgery, grafting or regeneration; fees, materials and reviews. |
| Maintenance | Indicative frequency, review costs and care needed to maintain stability. |
The estimate is established after assessment. We do not publish one price for treatments with different scopes.
Looking for periodontists in Colombia to arrange your care?
If you live abroad, contact the team before buying tickets. We can guide you on the clinic and assessment arrangements; periodontal diagnosis and final treatment indications require an in-person clinical examination.
Before travelling
Provide your home city, concerns and available dates. If you have X-rays or reports from your dentist, ask about the appropriate way to share them. You do not need to send clinical documents to request an appointment.
Appointments and length of stay
Request an indicative schedule for assessment, treatment, reassessment and reviews. Non-surgical treatment and surgery may have different requirements; the team must confirm these for your case.
A staged estimate
Confirm what each stage includes, outstanding studies and whether another visit to Colombia may be needed. Photographs or a single X-ray cannot guarantee appointment numbers or outcomes.
Continuity when you return
Before returning home, agree on care instructions and continued maintenance. If follow-up with your usual dentist is needed, request a treatment summary and relevant recommendations.
Long-term maintenance is important in periodontal disease. Travel planning should include continuity of care as well as initial appointments.
How to choose a periodontist in Colombia
If you are comparing specialists or searching for the best periodontists in Colombia for your case, review verifiable information: specialist qualifications, relevant experience, explanation of diagnosis, treatment options and a follow-up plan.
- Qualifications: check the profile of the professional who will actually treat you.
- Diagnosis: ask for an explanation of measurements, studies and the possibilities for retaining your teeth.
- Plan: compare indications, scope and alternatives as well as price.
- Follow-up: confirm how outcomes are reassessed and who will provide maintenance.
No review, photograph or Google ranking replaces assessment. A clinical case documents that patient’s experience and does not guarantee the same outcome for someone else.
Meet the specialist teamOur clinic’s cases and testimonials
Explore experiences and treatments published by the clinic. The gallery covers different dental services; not all cases involve periodontics. To compare a case with yours, ask which diagnosis and procedure were involved.
Periodontics assesses tissue health and stability as well as visual change. Examination and measurements evaluate aspects a photograph cannot show.
View more cases and testimonialsFrequently asked questions about periodontics
Do I need a periodontist or a dental cleaning?
Cleaning and periodontal assessment have different scopes. Persistent bleeding, recession, mobility, a history of periodontitis or problems around implants warrant examination to identify the care you need.
Does bleeding mean I have periodontitis?
Not on its own. It can occur with gingivitis and other conditions. Identifying periodontitis involves assessment of support loss, pockets and indicated studies.
Can I retain my teeth if I have lost bone?
Bone loss does not mean every tooth must be extracted. The periodontist assesses remaining support, mobility, inflammation and other factors to estimate prognosis. Not every tooth can be retained, and not every defect allows regeneration.
Does every patient need surgery?
No. Treatment may begin with plaque and risk factor control and non-surgical instrumentation. Surgery is considered according to diagnosis and the response in each area.
Is periodontitis cured permanently?
It requires long-term control and maintenance. Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and limit progression; stopping care or reviews can compromise stability.
Does treatment hurt?
Sensitivity and discomfort depend on the procedure and tissue condition. Local anaesthesia is used where appropriate, and postoperative care is explained. Total absence of discomfort should not be guaranteed.
What can I do if I live outside Colombia?
Contact the team to arrange the clinic and assessment before travelling. Ask about stages, possible reviews and maintenance in your country. Prior guidance does not replace in-person examination.
In which cities can I request an assessment?
Explore clinics in Bogotá, Ibagué, Cali, Medellín, Barranquilla, Cartagena and Pereira. Confirm which professional and treatment are available at your chosen clinic.
Clinical information and related treatments
For more general information, see the NIDCR gum disease guide. Treatment selection takes place at consultation.
Comprehensive care team
Dr Angela Giraldo
Dr Darwin Vergara
Dr Fernando Barrios
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Author
Dr. Johanna Calderón
Specialist in periodontics and implants. Our clinic has a specialist team providing
comprehensive care: dental implants, periodontics, smile design and endodontics and general dentistry.
We care for Colombian and international patients and guide you with a clear plan based on your diagnosis
(bone, gums, bite and the area needing rehabilitation).
Article last updated: 29/10/2026.
Arrange your periodontal care by city
Explore local information to choose a clinic and coordinate assessment and follow-up.
Periodontist in Bogotá
Bogotá clinics, consultation preparation, treatment and reviews.
View Bogotá periodontics and clinics →Periodontist in Cali
Explore Capri, Camino Real and Holguines, the local team and how to arrange assessment and follow-up.
View Cali periodontics and clinics →Periodontist in Medellín
Explore Salud Vegas and Calle 19A in El Poblado and arrange periodontal assessment, treatment and follow-up.
View Medellín periodontics and clinics →Periodontist in Barranquilla
Explore Calle 72 and Riomar and arrange periodontal assessment, treatment and maintenance.
View Barranquilla periodontics and clinics →Periodontist in Cartagena
Explore the Bocagrande clinic and arrange gum assessment, treatment and follow-up in Cartagena.
View Cartagena periodontics and clinic →Periodontist in Ibagué
Learn about Dr. Johanna Calderón’s care and the Torreón Empresarial and Surgimédica clinics for assessment and follow-up.
View Ibagué periodontics and clinics →Periodontist in Pereira
Explore Cerritos Mall and arrange your periodontal assessment and follow-up in Pereira.
View Pereira careClinics for periodontal assessment and treatment
We provide gum care and periodontal assessments at our clinics in Ibagué, Bogotá, Cali, Medellín, Barranquilla, Cartagena and Pereira. Choose a clinic to view its address, specialists and booking details. Specific treatment is determined after clinical assessment.
