For patients in South Africa

Periodontal Treatment in Turkey from South Africa: treating gum disease and keeping it under control

Periodontal treatment looks after the gums and the tissues that hold the teeth in place. It is used to treat gum disease, inflammation and infection, and to stop further damage that could loosen teeth. Unlike cosmetic dentistry, it deals with the foundation the rest of your teeth depend on, which is why gum problems usually need treating before implants, crowns or veneers. Gum disease also needs ongoing care, so for South African patients the plan for maintenance at home matters as much as the treatment in Turkey.

Signs that you may need gum treatment

Periodontal treatment may be right for you if you:

• Have bleeding, swollen or sensitive gums
• Notice gum recession, persistent bad breath or discomfort around the gums
• Have gum inflammation or infection, tooth sensitivity or loose teeth
• Want to protect your teeth before other dental work
• Are prepared to keep up good oral hygiene and regular check-ups

Suitability is confirmed by a full dental assessment covering your oral health history, a clinical examination and imaging where needed. If periodontal treatment is not the right option, you will be told what is.

Treatment options

What you need depends on how advanced the gum disease is. Options include professional deep cleaning, scaling and root planing, gum therapy, and surgical procedures for more advanced cases. Most procedures are done under local anaesthesia. Some mild sensitivity or discomfort afterwards is common and usually temporary.

Our dental specialists are listed on clinic facts, and the treatments are described on the periodontal treatments page. If your gums only need a routine clean, see teeth cleaning in Turkey.

How long to stay

How long you need in İzmir depends on the type and extent of treatment. Some procedures can be completed in a short visit; more complex treatment may need additional appointments. Your treatment plan can be prepared before you travel, with appointments arranged around your stay, and the dental team will give you a personalised timeline.

Flights from Johannesburg or Cape Town take around ten hours to Istanbul direct, followed by a short domestic flight to İzmir, where treatment takes place. İzmir is one hour ahead of South Africa, so jet lag is not a factor, and South Africans need an e-Visa before travelling. Most patients can fly home shortly after treatment; follow your dentist’s advice on oral hygiene and any precautions on the way home.

South African medical schemes generally do not cover planned dental treatment abroad, so check with yours before you book; we cannot promise any refund. Standard travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment abroad too.

Gum health before implants

Healthy gums and supporting tissue matter for any further dental work. If you are considering dental implants in Turkey, gum disease is normally treated first, and your dentist will advise whether that can happen on the same trip or needs a separate visit.

Maintenance in South Africa

Gum disease can be controlled but needs ongoing care. How long results last depends on your oral hygiene, how severe the condition was and regular dental maintenance. Before you travel:

• Find a dentist in South Africa who will see you for regular check-ups and cleans
• Ask for a written record of your gum assessment, the treatment done and any imaging
• Brush and floss carefully every day, as your dentist shows you

What our treatment guarantee covers is set out on that page; it does not cover problems caused by inadequate oral hygiene or not following aftercare instructions. Complaints are handled as described on our complaints page.

What we will not do

We will not place implants or crowns on top of untreated gum disease, we will not recommend surgery where deep cleaning is enough, and we will not start treatment before you have seen and agreed the plan.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I need to stay in Turkey for periodontal treatment?

It depends on the type and extent of treatment. Some procedures can be completed within a short visit, while more complex treatment may need additional appointments. You will be given a personalised timeline.

What types of gum disease treatment are available?

Depending on your gum condition, treatment may include professional deep cleaning, scaling and root planing, gum therapy or surgical procedures.

Is periodontal treatment painful?

Most procedures are done under local anaesthesia. Some mild sensitivity or discomfort afterwards is common and usually temporary.

Can periodontal treatment save my teeth?

In many cases it can help control gum disease and protect the structures that support the teeth. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of further problems.

Will my medical aid cover gum treatment in Turkey?

South African medical schemes generally do not cover planned treatment abroad. Check with your scheme before you book, and note that standard travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment too.

Start with a free online consultation. Planning the trip? Read the guide for South African patients and the e-Visa guide.