Gum Disease Treatment in Pimlico

Gum disease is inflammation of the tissues that hold your teeth in place, caused by bacteria in plaque building up at the gum line. It is common, it is often painless in its early stages, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, which is why we screen for it at every examination.

Signs worth getting checked

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
• Gums that appear to be receding, or teeth that look longer
• Teeth that feel loose, or a bite that feels like it has changed

Bleeding gums are common, but they are not normal. Gums that bleed are gums that are inflamed, and that is worth having looked at rather than waiting to see whether it settles.

Gingivitis and periodontitis

Gingivitis is inflammation limited to the gum itself. It is reversible: with thorough cleaning and improved daily care, the gum can return to health.

Periodontitis is the more advanced form, where the inflammation has reached the bone supporting the tooth. Bone lost to periodontitis does not grow back. This is why we treat early signs seriously, and why the aim of treatment at this stage is to halt the process and keep what is there, rather than to reverse it.

What treatment involves

We start by measuring the gums around each tooth and taking radiographs where needed, so we can see how much support has been affected and where. That assessment determines what treatment is appropriate.

Treatment is a thorough cleaning below the gum line to remove hardened deposits from the root surfaces, usually over more than one appointment. It is normally carried out with local anaesthetic so it is comfortable. Afterwards we re-measure the gums to see how they have responded, and agree how often you should be seen from then on.

Gum disease is managed rather than cured. Keeping it stable depends on daily cleaning at home and regular hygienist appointments, and we will show you the specific technique that will make the most difference in your case.

Why it matters beyond your gums

Untreated gum disease is the most common reason adults lose teeth, and it affects what can be done afterwards. Dental implants in particular depend on healthy gums and adequate bone, so active gum disease is treated and stabilised before implant treatment is considered.

Fees

The treatment you need is confirmed after your assessment, in a written plan, before anything begins.

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