How Dentists Treat Gum Disease
Gum disease starts quietly but can lead to serious oral health problems if not treated promptly. Vdental
Smile Studio believes in educating patients on how gum disease is treated — what happens, why it matters, and how we
restore gum health effectively.
Understanding Gum Disease: From Gingivitis to Periodontitis
Before treatment begins, it’s important to know how gum disease develops. The earliest stage — known as
gingivitis — often involves red or swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, or persistent bad breath. If left
untreated, it can advance to a more serious condition called periodontitis, where the infection attacks not just
gums but also the tissues and bone supporting teeth.
Early detection and intervention are key to preventing long-term damage. That’s why regular check-ups with a trusted dentist is so important.
Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
Initial approach begins with a comprehensive examination:
- Checking gums and teeth visually for signs of redness, swelling, or recession.
- Dentist may measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth using a periodontal probe — deeper pockets can indicate gum disease.
- Where necessary, dentist may take dental X-rays to inspect bone health and check if the supporting structures have been affected.
Non-Surgical Treatments: The First Line of Defence
For early-stage gum disease or moderate periodontitis, dentists typically start with non-surgical treatments. These include:
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): This is a thorough cleaning above and below the gum line to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria that brushing and flossing alone cannot reach. It smooths the tooth roots to help gums re-attach properly and heal.
- Oral Hygiene Advice & Education: We guide you on proper brushing technique, use of interdental brushes or floss, and other hygiene habits to reduce plaque build-up and prevent recurrence.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: If factors such as smoking or poor oral hygiene contribute to gum disease, we’ll advise on lifestyle changes.
These steps often suffice to halt early gum disease and restore gum health.
When Advanced Care is Needed: Further Interventions
If gum disease has progressed beyond the early stages — for example, if pockets around teeth remain deep despite cleaning — more advanced treatment may be necessary. Options include:
- Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery): The gums are gently lifted, tartar removed from deep below the gum line, and the gum tissue repositioned to reduce pocket depth — helping prevent bacteria from accumulating again
- Gum / Tissue Regeneration & Grafting: In some cases, gum recession or bone loss requires tissue grafts or regenerative procedures to restore healthy gum line and support tissue around teeth.
- Antimicrobial Therapy (Mouthwashes / Local Treatment): In some instances where infection is persistent, targeted antimicrobial rinses or gels may be used as adjunct treatment — though routine use of antibiotics is not always recommended in standard cases.
Ongoing Care & Maintenance After Treatment
Treating gum disease doesn’t end with cleaning or surgery — maintenance is crucial. Once the active phase is complete, long-term success depends on:
- Regular check-ups to monitor gum health and pocket depth.
- Professional cleanings (above and below gumline) at intervals recommended by your dentist.
- Consistent daily oral hygiene: brushing, flossing or interdental cleaning, possibly using mouthwash if recommended.
- Lifestyle and habit adjustments if risk factors are present (e.g. smoking, poor diet).
Why Choose VDental Smile Studio as Your Dentist in Hackney
As a leading dentist in Hackney, VDental Smile Studio combines professional expertise, modern periodontal care and patient-focused service to treat gum disease effectively. When you choose us, you benefit from:
- A thorough multi-stage approach based on UK professional guidelines for gum disease treatment.
- Access to both non-surgical and advanced surgical options depending on your needs.
- Ongoing guidance and maintenance care to preserve your gum and oral health long-term.
- A friendly, caring team dedicated to making you comfortable throughout your treatment.
Take Action Now: Protect Your Gums Before Problems Worsen
Gum disease can progress silently — but with early detection, professional care, and proper home hygiene, it’s very manageable. If you’ve noticed symptoms like bleeding gums, swelling, bad breath or receding gums, or simply want to check the health of your gums, don’t wait.
Contact VDental Smile Studio — your trusted dentist in Hackney to book your consultation. Let us help you restore and maintain a healthy smile for life.
