Treatments
Gum disease treatment
Gum disease is inflammation and infection of the gums and the bone that holds the teeth in place. In its early stage (gingivitis) the gums bleed when you brush; if it progresses (periodontitis) the gums and bone are lost, teeth can become loose, and eventually teeth can be lost. At our Wimpole Street practice we assess the health of your gums, treat active disease, and set up a maintenance plan to keep it under control.
Signs of gum disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste that doesn’t go away
- Gums that have shrunk back, making teeth look longer
- Teeth that feel loose or have moved
Gum disease is often painless, so regular check-ups matter even if nothing hurts.
How we treat it
- Periodontal assessment: we measure the pockets around each tooth, take X-rays to check the bone, and record bleeding and gum recession.
- Non-surgical treatment (deep cleaning): the roots of the teeth are cleaned below the gum line under local anaesthetic, usually over several visits.
- Re-assessment: after a few months we check how the gums have healed.
- Gum surgery, if needed: for deeper pockets that don’t respond, or to cover exposed roots (root coverage grafting).
- Maintenance: regular hygiene visits, usually every three to four months, to keep the disease stable.
Gum disease and implants
Untreated gum disease is a risk for dental implants as well as natural teeth. We treat and stabilise the gums before planning implants, and maintain them afterwards.
Fees
Fees depend on how many areas need treatment, and are given in a written plan after your assessment. Hygiene appointments are £170. See our fees page.
Questions patients ask
Can gum disease be cured?
Periodontitis can be treated and kept stable, but the tendency to it usually remains. Lost bone doesn’t normally grow back by itself, which is why ongoing maintenance is important.
Does smoking affect gum disease?
Yes. Smoking makes gum disease more likely, more severe and slower to heal. It can also hide bleeding, an early warning sign.
Is deep cleaning painful?
It’s done under local anaesthetic. The gums may feel sore and the teeth sensitive for a few days afterwards.
How often should I see the hygienist?
Most people need a hygiene appointment every six months. If you have, or have had, gum disease, every three to four months is usually recommended.
Results vary from person to person. Every treatment begins with a consultation and a written treatment plan.
Reviewed by Dr David Guy BDS (Wales) · GDC No. 81898 · Updated November 2026
Related: Check-ups and hygiene · Dental implants