Gum disease treatment

Bleeding is a common sign of gum inflammation, often related to plaque, but other factors can contribute. A dental examination is needed to identify the cause. Healthy gums generally should not bleed regularly when brushed or cleaned between the teeth.

Yes. Gingivitis and periodontitis can be painless, particularly early on. Bleeding, recession, bad breath or changes in tooth position may be easier to notice than pain, and some people have few obvious symptoms. Periodontal measurements and radiographs when appropriate help assess what is happening.

Not necessarily. Some patients need only a check-up, scale and clean, personalised home-care advice and routine review. If there are deeper periodontal pockets or deposits below the gumline, we may recommend non-surgical periodontal treatment. We will explain the findings and options before proceeding.

It depends on your gum health and risk. A 4- or 6-monthly visit may suit some people; those with periodontitis may need shorter supportive maintenance intervals. We will discuss a schedule that makes sense for your circumstances and review it over time.

No. Digital radiographs are taken when there is a clinical reason, such as checking bone levels or investigating a specific concern. We consider your existing images and individual history, explain the reason, and use X-rays selectively.

Periodontitis is associated with cardiovascular disease, but current evidence does not prove that treating gum disease prevents heart attacks or strokes. In people with both diabetes and periodontitis, periodontal treatment may modestly improve HbA1c over the short term, but it is not a replacement for medical diabetes care. We will discuss oral health findings without making promises about medical outcomes.

Gingivitis can usually be reversed. Periodontitis is generally managed as a long-term condition: treatment can reduce inflammation and help control further tissue damage, but lost bone does not routinely regenerate on its own. Ongoing home care and maintenance are important.

Arrange a dental assessment if you have persistent bleeding, swelling, pus, gum recession or a loose tooth. Facial swelling with fever or feeling very unwell needs urgent care. If swelling affects breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical help immediately.

We plan treatment around your comfort. Because cleaning below the gumline can be sensitive, we can discuss topical numbing gel or local anaesthetic where appropriate. You may still notice pressure or vibration, but you should tell us if you feel pain. Agreeing on a hand signal lets us pause and check in at any time.

Some tenderness, slight bleeding or temporary sensitivity to hot and cold can occur as the gums settle. The amount and duration vary, and sensitivity may last longer when roots are exposed. We will give you tailored aftercare advice. Contact us if symptoms worsen, are severe, or do not improve as expected.

Gum or bone lost through periodontitis does not usually grow back by itself. Treatment aims to control active disease and protect the support that remains. In selected cases, a periodontist may consider regenerative surgery for particular bone defects, or gum grafting for recession; suitability and results vary, so an assessment is needed.

Inflamed gums can be swollen and partly fill spaces between teeth. As inflammation settles, those spaces may become more visible. This can reflect the underlying shape of the teeth or previous loss of gum and bone support; it is not, by itself, proof that treatment has succeeded or failed. We can explain what is happening and discuss suitable options if the appearance concerns you.

There is no single tool that is best for everyone. A powered brush with a pressure sensor can help some people brush gently and consistently. A water flosser may be a useful addition, especially around bridges, braces or implants, but it may not replace the interdental cleaning method suited to your teeth. We can demonstrate options for your mouth.

The right method depends on the space between your teeth. Floss can suit tight contacts, while a correctly sized interdental brush may clean more effectively where there is room, such as with recession or open spaces. We can measure the spaces and recommend a size. Do not force a brush into a tight gap, as this can injure the gum.

Cover varies by fund and policy. Any rebate depends on the treatment item numbers, your level of cover, waiting periods and remaining annual limits. We can provide an estimate and relevant item numbers for you to check directly with your fund before treatment; your fund can confirm your exact benefit and gap.

Routine preventive and necessary dental care, including gum assessment and cleaning, is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make gums more prone to inflammation. Please tell us if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, and mention any relevant health advice or medicines so we can tailor care and coordinate with your maternity care team if needed.

Research on vaping and periodontal health is still developing, and results are mixed, so we cannot predict an individual effect with certainty. Smoking is an established risk factor for gum disease; vaping is not risk-free, and nicotine may affect blood flow and healing. Please tell us if you vape or smoke so we can consider it when assessing your gum health and healing.

Yes. Periodontitis can become active again if plaque builds up or risk factors change. Daily home care and a maintenance interval tailored to your gum measurements and health help us monitor stability and respond early if signs return.