Gum Disease Treatment

Gum Health Care at Ferny Smiles Dental

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. At Ferny Smiles Dental, we place a strong emphasis on gum health because it plays a critical role not only in your oral health, but also in your overall wellbeing.

Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions, and it often develops quietly without obvious symptoms. Our focus is on early detection, gentle treatment, and long term management to help protect your teeth and support your general health.

Whether you are noticing bleeding gums, bad breath, or have been diagnosed with gum disease, our team is here to guide you with personalised, supportive care.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It is typically caused by a build-up of plaque and bacteria along the gumline.
There are two main stages:

Gingivitis

The early stage of gum disease, where gums may appear red, swollen, or bleed easily. At this stage, the condition is often reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene.

Periodontitis

A more advanced stage where the infection affects the deeper supporting structures, including bone. This can lead to gum recession, tooth mobility, and, if left untreated, tooth loss.

Why Gum Health Matters

We are passionate about helping patients understand that gum health goes beyond the mouth.

Increasingly strong links have been identified between gum disease and chronic health conditions such as:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Alzheimer’s disease

Inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease may contribute to systemic health concerns. This is why maintaining healthy gums and attending regular dental visits plays an important role in supporting your overall wellbeing.

Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease does not always cause pain, especially in its early stages. Some common signs to look out for include:

  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Red, swollen, or tender gums
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Gum recession or teeth appearing longer
  • Sensitivity around the gumline
  • Loose or shifting teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional advice early.

What to Expect with Gum Disease Treatment

At Ferny Smiles Dental, we take a personalised approach to managing gum health.

Your treatment may include:

Comprehensive Assessment
We assess your gums, measure pocket depths, and evaluate bone support around your teeth to determine the severity of the condition.

Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
This involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the root surfaces to help the gums heal and reattach.

Airflow Technology
We use gentle Airflow technology where appropriate to remove plaque and bacteria more comfortably, particularly for patients with sensitive teeth.

Ongoing Maintenance Care
Gum disease is a condition that requires ongoing management. Regular maintenance visits help keep bacteria under control and prevent progression.

Tailored Oral Hygiene Guidance
We provide practical advice on brushing, flossing, and interdental cleaning techniques to help you maintain your results at home.

Advanced Diagnostics (Where Required)

To ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, we may use advanced technology such as:

  • Digital X-rays to assess bone levels
    • CBCT imaging for detailed 3D evaluation of supporting structures
    • Clinical photography to monitor changes over time

These tools help us detect and manage gum disease more precisely.

Woman Having Teeth Examined At Dentists

How Often Should You Have Gum Maintenance?

For patients with healthy gums, six-monthly visits are generally recommended.

If gum disease is present, more frequent maintenance visits may be advised, often every 3 to 4 months. This helps control bacteria levels and reduces the risk of further damage.

Your dentist will recommend a personalised schedule based on your individual needs.

Preventing Gum Disease

Daily habits play a major role in maintaining healthy gums. We recommend:

  • Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Flossing or using interdental brushes daily
  • Attending regular dental check-ups and cleans
  • Avoiding smoking
  • Maintaining a balanced diet

Our team is always happy to guide you on the best techniques and products for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque and bacteria build-up along the gumline. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain medical conditions, and genetics can also increase risk.
Gingivitis, the early stage, can often be reversed with professional treatment and improved oral care. More advanced stages can be managed but not fully reversed.
Most patients find treatment very manageable. We use gentle techniques and modern technology to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Yes. Gum disease can progress without pain, which is why regular dental visits are important for early detection.
A dental examination is the best way to assess your gum health. Your dentist will measure and evaluate your gums to determine if treatment is required.