Gum disease treatments

At Number 18 Dental we provide a range of gum disease treatments, also known as periodontics, to optimise your dental health.

There are two levels of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.

• Gingivitis:

  Sufferers of gingivitis experience red, swollen or bleeding gums when brushing or on occasion when eating.

• Periodontitis:

  This is a more advanced level of gum disease involving bone loss, which may in time loosen teeth and cause them to fall out.

Gum disease treatment

In addition to a good oral health routine at home, regular dental hygiene appointments help to prevent gum disease.

For more advanced cases, root planing and debridement may be necessary. During this treatment your your periodontist or dentist cleans under the gums, which is performed under local anaesthetic to reduce discomfort.

In more severe cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary. Your periodontist will discuss all the options available with you and draw up a personalised treatment plan.

Benefits of gum disease treatment

• Preventative treatments such as regular hygiene appointments can help to reduce the risk of gum disease by removing any build-up of plaque and tartar
• Treatment reduces any discomfort felt from inflamed or bleeding gums
• Treatment helps to reduce the risk of tooth loss in later life

Gum disease treatment FAQs

• Is gum disease common?

  Gum disease is a very common complaint, with most people experiencing it to some degree in their life. Therefore, there should be absolutely no stigma attached with the condition, and instead, a focus should be put on maintaining a good degree of oral health generally.

• How do I prevent gum disease?

  Good cleaning habits, including brushing twice a day, interdental cleaning, not smoking, and using a fluoride toothpaste are factors which help to prevent gum disease, as well as regular hygienist appointments.

• Does gum disease treatment hurt?

  In less severe cases, a scale and polish can help to remove plaque and tartar which can contribute to gum disease. In more severe cases, including those where root planning or periodontal surgery is needed, local anaesthetic will be used by your periodontist, ensuring as comfortable experience as possible.