Gum Disease Treatment

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

The mildest form of gum disease, characterised by red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.

• • Gums appear red and swollen
• • Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• • Bad breath or taste
• • Completely reversible with proper treatment

Periodontitis (Advanced Stage)

Advanced gum disease where the infection has spread to the supporting structures, including bone and ligaments.

• • Gums pull away from teeth (recession)
• • Formation of deep pockets
• • Bone and tissue damage
• • Can be controlled but not fully reversed

1. Assessment and Planning

Your dentist or dental hygienist will examine your gums, measure pocket depths, and assess the extent of disease. X-rays may be taken to evaluate bone loss.

2. Professional Cleaning (Scaling)

Removal of plaque and tartar from above the gumline using specialised instruments. This eliminates the bacteria that cause gum inflammation.

3. Root Surface Debridement

Deep cleaning below the gumline to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from root surfaces. This thorough cleaning targets deposits that cause gum inflammation and bone loss.

4. Root Planing

Smoothing the root surfaces to remove rough areas where bacteria can easily attach. This helps gums reattach to teeth and prevents future plaque buildup.

5. Antimicrobial Therapy

Application of antimicrobial agents or antibiotics to eliminate remaining bacteria and promote healing. This may include mouth rinses, gels, or systemic antibiotics.

6. Personalised Oral Hygiene Instruction

Tailored advice on brushing techniques, flossing methods, and oral care products to help you maintain healthy gums at home.

Non-Surgical Treatment

The first line of treatment for most gum disease cases, focusing on thorough cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

• • Professional scaling and cleaning
• • Root surface debridement
• • Antimicrobial therapy
• • Oral hygiene education

Surgical Treatment

Required for advanced cases where non-surgical treatment is insufficient to control the disease.

• • Flap surgery to access deep pockets
• • Bone grafts to regenerate lost bone
• • Guided tissue regeneration
• • Soft tissue grafts for gum recession

Immediate Aftercare

• • Some tenderness and sensitivity is normal
• • Use prescribed mouth rinses as directed
• • Avoid hard or crunchy foods initially
• • Take any prescribed medications

Long-term Maintenance

• • Regular dental check-ups every 3-6 months
• • Professional cleaning appointments
• • Excellent daily oral hygiene
• • Lifestyle modifications (quit smoking, manage diabetes)

Home Care Tips

• • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• • Floss daily or use interdental brushes
• • Use antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
• • Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D

What is gum disease treatment?

Gum disease treatment involves professional cleaning above and below the gumline, removal of plaque and tartar, and personalised advice to help gums heal and stay healthy.

What are the stages of gum disease?

Gum disease progresses from gingivitis (mild inflammation) to periodontitis (advanced disease affecting bone and supporting structures). Early treatment prevents progression.

How is gum disease treated?

Treatment includes professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, antimicrobial therapy, and personalised oral hygiene instruction. Advanced cases may require surgical intervention.

How long does gum disease treatment take?

Initial treatment typically takes 2-4 visits over several weeks. Maintenance appointments every 3-6 months are essential for long-term success.

Can gum disease be cured?

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can be completely reversed. Advanced periodontitis can be controlled and managed, but some damage may be irreversible.

How much does gum disease treatment cost?

NHS treatment costs £27.40-£306.80 depending on complexity. Private treatment ranges from £80-£800 depending on the extent of treatment required.