Gum Disease Treatment

Types of Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is usually categorised into two stages — gingivitis (early stage) and periodontitis (advanced stage) — and the corresponding treatment can range from deep cleaning to surgical intervention. Every treatment starts with a thorough consultation to better understand your current condition.

The main goal of treatment is to thoroughly cleanse the gums and pockets around the teeth to prevent further damage to gum tissue and bone, and restore overall oral health. 

Early stage (gingivitis)

Treatment typically involves professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, as well as improved oral hygiene practices at home, such as brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.

Advanced stages (periodontitis) 

Treatment usually includes deeper cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing to remove bacteria from below the gum line and smooth the tooth roots.

• Root planing — smoothing the root surfaces to prevent further tartar and bacteria build-up.
• Scaling — removing tartar and bacteria from tooth surfaces and below the gumline.
• Antibiotic therapy — Antibiotics may be prescribed by your dentist to combat the gum infection.

Severe gum disease or advanced periodontitis

Severe gum disease or advanced periodontitis, surgical intervention may be required. These include:

• Pocket reduction surgery / Flap surgery: Pocket reduction surgery (osseous surgery) involves creating cuts in gum tissue that are folded back to expose tooth roots for more effective cleaning. These flaps are then secured back into place to reduce the pockets.
• Regenerative surgery: Regenerative surgery, mainly bone and tissue grafts, aims to restore the structure and stability of the gums and bones, improving the overall health of your mouth and providing a stronger foundation for your teeth.

For individuals with deeper pockets that do not heal well after scaling and root planing, regenerative techniques are recommended to facilitate improved healing and enhance the overall condition of your oral health.

At An Dental in Singapore, we believe in adopting modern dental technology to ensure the most comfortable and effective experience possible. We utilise the EMS AIRFLOW, a professional teeth cleaning machine that utilises air, water, and fine-grained powder to thoroughly clean teeth while minimising sensitivity.

Benefits of Gum Disease Treatment

The benefits of gum disease treatment include:

• Prevents tooth loss
• Mitigates gum inflammation and bleeding
• Increases tooth stability
• Improves long-term oral health
• Reduces the risk of systemic conditions 
• Improves aesthetic appearance

After treatment, it’s important to stay consistent and maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent the issue from recurring. If you are prone to gum disease, schedule more frequent cleaning visits with your dentist to maintain optimal oral health.

When should you seek Gum Disease Treatment?

Before any treatment, you will be required to undergo a thorough consultation, including dental x-rays, to better understand the extent of your gum disease and the most ideal treatment needed for your condition. Generally, you should get gum disease treatment if you experience the following:

• Red, inflamed gums and puffy gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
• Triangle-shaped gaps between your teeth
• Gums that pull away from your teeth, or receding gums
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite 
• Loose teeth 
• Abscess or pockets of pus in the gums

What results can I expect after Gum Disease Treatment?

How many Gum Disease Treatment sessions are needed? 

The number of treatment sessions needed largely depend on individual factors such as the severity of the condition, the type of treatment plan, and how well a patient responds to treatment. 

• Gingivitis — For gingivitis, one to two professional dental cleaning sessions are generally sufficient, followed by regular check-ups every 6 months to maintain gum health.

• Periodontitis — For periodontitis, the deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing may require one or two sessions, depending on the extent of the disease. After the initial treatment, follow-up appointments may be scheduled every 3 to 6 months to monitor progress and provide maintenance cleaning.

• Severe or advanced periodontitis — If advanced treatments such as regenerative surgery are necessary, additional sessions may be required. Once gum health has been restored, regular maintenance visits every three to six months are usually recommended to prevent recurrence and promote ongoing oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the best treatment for gum disease?

There is no best treatment, but rather one that would be best for your specific condition. Mild cases of gum disease can typically be managed by practicing good oral hygiene, while more severe gum disease may require surgical intervention. This is why routine dental check-ups are important — allowing your dentist to monitor your gum health, in turn, mitigating any signs of potential gum disease before the condition worsens.

How much does it cost to treat gum disease

The cost of treating gum disease in Singapore can vary significantly based on factors such as the severity of the condition, the specific treatment required, and the pricing structure of the dental clinic. It also helps to check with your insurance provider if your gum disease treatment is covered or eligible for claim.

Will I experience pain during gum disease treatment?

Less invasive forms of gum disease treatment are generally well-tolerated. Sometimes, an anaesthetic can be administered to ensure that you’re kept comfortable throughout the procedure. It is, however, important to note that the extent of your inflammation and infection can also influence pain levels, especially after complex procedures, which could potentially lead to some post-surgical discomfort. Thankfully, this will subside in time as you heal. 

Can gum disease be fully cured?

Gum disease can often be effectively treated and managed, but whether it can be "cured" depends on the severity of the condition. Book a consultation at An Dental for a comprehensive oral analysis and personalised treatment plan.