Experienced Gum Surgery for Patients in North London

Gum surgery is typically recommended when non surgical treatments, like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), haven't been enough to resolve gum disease. You are a likely candidate if you experience persistent symptoms such as gums that bleed easily, deep pockets between your teeth and gums (over 5mm), or noticeable gum recession where your teeth look longer. Another key indicator is loose teeth, which suggests the infection has started to damage the supporting bone structure. We often see patients from areas like Hampstead and Highgate who want to address these issues proactively before they lead to tooth loss. A 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley practice can precisely measure bone levels to confirm if surgery is the right course of action.

Your treatment process is carefully planned for the best results. First, you'll have a 60-minute consultation, including a thorough examination and a 3D CBCT scan to assess the bone and tissue damage. If you proceed, the surgical appointment itself typically lasts between 60 and 120 minutes. The area is completely numbed with local anaesthetic, so you will only feel pressure, not pain. The dentist then gently lifts the gum tissue back to remove hardened plaque and tartar from the deep pockets and smooth any damaged bone. Finally, the gums are stitched back into place to fit more snugly around the teeth. You'll return for a follow-up appointment in 7-10 days to have the stitches removed and check on your healing.

Proper aftercare is key to a smooth recovery. For the first 24-48 hours, expect some swelling and mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. We recommend applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 15-minute intervals. Stick to a soft food diet for the first week—think soups, smoothies, and yoghurt. You'll need to avoid strenuous physical activity for a few days. We'll provide a special antiseptic mouthwash to use while the area is too tender to brush. Most patients are back to their normal routine within a week. Red flags requiring attention: Call our practice immediately if you experience heavy bleeding that won't stop, pus from the surgical site, or increasing, severe pain after day 3—during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For out-of-hours emergencies, please visit your nearest A&E or call 111.

Surgery is not always the first option. For mild to moderate gum disease, a non-surgical deep clean, known as scaling and root planing, is often the first line of treatment. This procedure thoroughly cleans below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth. It's less invasive and less expensive. However, it's only effective for periodontal pockets up to a certain depth. If the pockets are too deep or there's significant bone loss, surgery becomes necessary to gain access for proper cleaning and repair. During your consultation, we'll discuss which approach is most suitable for your specific clinical situation.

The cost of private gum surgery in North London varies depending on the complexity and number of teeth involved. As a guide, treatment typically starts from £800 per quadrant. This fee includes the surgical procedure itself, local anaesthetic, and follow-up appointments for stitch removal. The initial consultation and 3D CBCT scan are separate costs. We believe in full transparency, so you will receive a detailed, written treatment plan with all costs clearly itemised before you commit to anything. Our practice accepts private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna, and we can help you with the necessary paperwork for your claim.

To make an informed choice, ask the right questions whether you consult with us in Finchley or another practice in North London. Here are some key things to ask: * How many periodontal surgeries do you perform each year? * What is the expected success rate for my specific case? * Does the quoted price include all follow-up appointments? * What specific type of gum surgery are you recommending and why? * What are the risks if I choose not to have the surgery? * How will you ensure I am comfortable during the procedure? * What long-term maintenance will I need after the surgery?