Gums that bleed when you brush aren't normal — it's often the first sign of inflammation. Caught at this stage, gingivitis is reversible with a proper cleaning and better habits. Left alone, it can progress to periodontitis: the bone holding the teeth breaks down, and the damage becomes permanent.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it usually advances without pain. That's why we check your gums at every visit and suggest treatment as soon as it's needed, not later.
Signs to watch for
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Receding gums: teeth look longer
- Loose teeth or new gaps appearing
What to expect
- Step 1
Assessment
We measure the depth of the space between gum and tooth, all the way around each tooth, and check the bone level on X-rays. That tells us whether it's gingivitis or periodontitis, and how far along.
- Step 2
Scaling and root planing
This is a deep cleaning below the gumline to remove the tartar and bacteria stuck to the roots. It's done under local anaesthesia, often over two visits, one side of the mouth at a time.
- Step 3
Re-evaluation
A few weeks later, we measure again. Most of the time, the gums have tightened and bleed less. If some areas aren't responding, we adjust the plan — and refer you to a periodontist if needed.
- Step 4
Maintenance
Periodontitis is controlled, not cured once and for all. More frequent cleanings — often every three or four months — and a good routine at home keep things stable.
What it changes
- Gums that stop bleeding and fresher breath
- Bone and teeth protected before the damage becomes irreversible
- Less sensitivity and recession over time
- A healthier mouth, which matters for the rest of the body too
Frequently asked questions
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum only: it gets red and bleeds, but the bone is intact and everything is reversible. Periodontitis goes further: the infection settles under the gum and gradually destroys the bone holding the tooth. What's lost doesn't come back, but the progression can be stopped.
It's done under local anaesthesia, so you shouldn't feel anything during. Afterwards, the gums may be tender for a few days, especially to cold. It settles, and we'll explain how to manage the discomfort.
Research associates gum disease with other conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The exact nature of the link is still being studied, but we know chronic inflammation in the mouth doesn't help the rest of the body. If you're diabetic or pregnant, tell us: your gums deserve extra attention.
After gum treatment, bacteria return faster to the pockets that were affected. A three- or four-month interval lets us remove them before they do more damage. That's what keeps the treatment effective over the long term.