The cause
Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is caused by bacteria found in dental plaque — the sticky white film that forms on your teeth each day. These bacteria release toxins that irritate and inflame the gums, causing them to become red, swollen and prone to bleeding. This early stage is known as gingivitis and can usually be reversed with good oral hygiene and professional cleaning.
If left untreated, the infection can spread deeper below the gum line and start to damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth. This advanced stage is called periodontitis. The gums detach from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria thrive and harden into calculus (tartar). These deposits can no longer be removed by brushing alone, and the ongoing inflammation may eventually lead to bone loss and tooth loss.
Everyone’s susceptibility to gum disease is different. Factors such as smoking, stress, diabetes, certain medications, and genetic predisposition can all increase your risk.
The aims of treatment
Gum disease is a chronic condition that won’t resolve on its own — but with the right care it can be stabilised and controlled. The aim of treatment is to stop further damage, restore gum health, and protect your teeth for the long term. In some cases, it may also be possible to regenerate lost bone or gum tissue once the disease is stabilised.
Gum disease affects up to 80% of adults at some stage in life, often without pain or obvious symptoms in the early phases. You may need periodontal treatment if you notice bleeding when brushing, persistent bad breath, swollen or receding gums, or teeth that feel loose or drifting.
Even if you don’t have symptoms, gum disease can silently damage the structures supporting your teeth. Treating it early can prevent tooth loss and may also support your overall health — as studies show links between gum disease and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and other inflammatory disorders.
1. Oral hygiene instruction
The first step is teaching you how to clean effectively at home. Proper daily brushing and interdental cleaning are the foundation of successful treatment — without this, even the best professional care won’t keep the disease stable.
2. Non-surgical periodontal cleaning
This involves removing plaque, bacterial toxins, and hard calculus from above and below the gum line. The root surfaces are cleaned and smoothed using precision instruments — and, in many cases, assisted by laser therapy for added disinfection and comfort. Treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic so it’s completely painless. Some temporary tenderness or sensitivity afterwards is normal and settles quickly.
3. Reassessment
Around two months later, we re-measure the gum pockets to assess healing and stability. If any areas remain inflamed, further treatment — such as additional cleaning, antibiotics, or targeted laser therapy — may be recommended.
Advanced and surgical treatment
In more advanced cases, periodontal surgery may be required to access deep pockets and reshape the gum or bone for easier cleaning. Where appropriate, regenerative procedures such as bone grafting or gum grafting can help rebuild lost support. Lasers are often used to enhance precision, healing, and comfort during these procedures.
Maintenance
Once active treatment is complete and the gums are stable, you’ll enter a maintenance programme. Regular reviews and professional cleanings every 3–4 months help keep the disease under control and prevent relapse. Long-term maintenance is essential for preserving your gums, bone, and teeth for life.
Each treatment session typically lasts up to 90 minutes, and your full course of therapy will be spread over several visits to make it comfortable and manageable. You’ll receive a full schedule and treatment plan in advance so you know what to expect.
The investment in saving your teeth ranges between £800 and £2,500, depending on the number of teeth involved and the complexity of treatment required. We’ll provide a full written estimate and personalised plan before starting. Treating gum disease is always more cost-effective — and far better for your health — than replacing lost teeth later with dentures, bridges, or implants.