Gum Infection Treatment for North London Patients

If you notice persistent symptoms that do not improve with better brushing and flossing, you should seek treatment for a gum infection. The earliest stage, gingivitis, can often be reversed, but if left untreated it can progress to periodontitis which damages the bone around the teeth. Look for gums that bleed when you brush, that are red or swollen, and for persistent bad breath. Some people notice a bad taste or gums that seem to recede. If your gums feel tender or you worry about tooth stability, this is a good time to seek care. Acting promptly protects long term oral health. The Oral Health Foundation notes that gum disease affects many people at some point, but professional care can keep it under control.

Your first visit includes a thorough examination. We measure the pockets between teeth and gums, check for inflammation, and may take digital x rays to assess bone under the gum. This helps us determine the infection stage from early gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis. We share our findings with you and outline the proposed treatment plan.

Treatment typically involves non surgical deep cleaning also called root surface debridement. This is done under local anaesthetic for comfort. The goal is to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, cleaning right down to the bottom of the pocket. This eliminates the bacteria causing the infection and supports gum healing and reattachment to the teeth. For moderate cases, two sessions of 60 minutes each may be needed.

We schedule a follow up about 4 to 6 weeks after treatment to monitor healing and re check pocket depths. Long term success depends on home care, so we provide detailed instructions on brushing and cleaning between teeth. Most patients then need ongoing maintenance every 3 to 6 months to keep the condition under control.

Right after deep cleaning you may feel tenderness and sensitivity for a few days. Teeth can be more sensitive to hot and cold for up to a week, and some minor bleeding is possible. You can manage discomfort with over the counter pain relief. A soft food diet is helpful for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid very hot or spicy foods. Continue your normal oral hygiene but be gentle around the treated areas for the first few days. Red flags requiring a call include severe pain that does not respond to pain relief, excessive swelling, or signs of infection such as pus after three days. For out of hours emergencies go to A and E or call 111.

Gum disease treatment depends on severity. For very advanced periodontitis a referral to a specialist periodontist for surgical treatment is an option when non surgical cleaning does not resolve deep pockets. If a tooth has a very poor prognosis due to bone loss, extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge might be considered. Our aim is to save natural teeth whenever possible. During your consultation we give an honest assessment and explain whether our non surgical approach fits your needs or if a referral is the better option.

To make an informed choice about your care whether with us or another practice in North London, consider asking these questions: What stage of gum disease do I have? Is non surgical treatment enough for my case or do I need surgery? What is the total cost of the initial treatment and what is included? How often will I need maintenance after this treatment? What home care routine do you recommend for me? Can you show me how to clean between my teeth effectively? Do you accept private dental insurance plans such as Denplan or Cigna?

The cost of gum infection treatment depends on the severity of the condition. An initial hygiene assessment and consultation is quoted individually. Non surgical deep cleaning typically requires several sessions, with prices discussed after the assessment. We provide clear information up front with a written treatment plan before starting. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS services, but we accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan and Cigna. Please contact our reception to discuss your plan.