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Managing gum disease at every stage

Periodontal (gum) disease affects the tissues that support the teeth. Treatment depends on how advanced the disease is, how the gums respond to initial care, and whether long-term stability can be achieved without surgery.

Periodontal treatment aims to control infection, stabilise the gums, and preserve teeth wherever possible.

Understanding the stages of gum disease

  • Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums without bone loss.
  • Periodontitis – inflammation with loss of bone support.
  • Advanced periodontitis – deeper pockets, mobility, and risk of tooth loss.

Treatment is tailored to the stage and severity of the disease.

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FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is surgery considered?

Periodontal surgery may be recommended when:

  • Deep pockets persist despite thorough non-surgical care.
  • Infection cannot be adequately assessed.
  • Bone defects require direct treatment.
  • Long-term stability cannot otherwise be achieved.

Surgery is not a first-line treatment and is only considered when necessary.

How is tooth prognosis assessed during periodontal treatment, and when might extraction be considered?

Advanced periodontal care also involves honest discussion about:

  • Which teeth can be stabilised?
  • Which teeth have a poor long-term outlook?
  • Whether staged treatment or tooth removal is more predictable.

Preserving teeth is always the priority, but predictability and comfort matter.

Non-surgical periodontal treatment

Professional cleaning and hygiene therapy

This is the foundation of all periodontal care and may include:

  • Thorough cleaning above and below the gum line.
  • Removal of plaque and calculus.
  • Oral hygiene instruction.
  • Monitoring gum health over time.

Early gum disease can often be stabilised at this stage.

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Non-surgical periodontal treatment

Root surface debridement (root planing)

Root planing is a deeper form of cleaning carried out below the gum line.

When it is used:

  • Established periodontal disease.
  • Deep gum pockets.
  • Ongoing inflammation despite routine cleaning.
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Non-surgical periodontal treatment

Advanced non-surgical periodontal care

In some cases, periodontal disease requires:

  • Multiple visits.
  • Targeted treatment of specific areas.
  • Close monitoring of pocket depths.
  • Ongoing periodontal maintenance.

This phase is critical in determining whether the disease can be controlled without surgery.

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Gum health is essential for:

  • Crowns and bridges.
  • Veneers and bonding.
  • Dental implants.
  • Complex restorative treatment.

Periodontal disease must be stabilised before advanced dental work can proceed.

Planning and responsibility of care

Periodontal treatment is planned carefully and explained clearly at each stage. Your dentist and hygiene team will guide you through appropriate options based on disease severity and response to treatment.

Where periodontal disease forms part of a wider restorative or complex dental plan, care is coordinated to ensure gum health, tooth support, and long-term outcomes are aligned.

Patient takeaway

Gum disease is manageable at all stages, but it requires the right level of treatment at the right time. Early intervention reduces the need for surgery and improves long-term outcomes.

TREATMENT TESTIMONIALS

Our Smile Transformations

We’re proud to be a trusted part of our patients’ oral health journeys. Explore their testimonials to see how we’re creating positive dental experiences – one smile at a time.

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I required some extensive dental work, which I had been catastrophising in my head for some time now. Having finally plucked up the courage, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been cared for so professionally & competently by Lorna…

Colin K

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I had a great experience with Lorna. She was very competent, gentle and took the time to explain everything clearly. I’d highly recommend Lorna to anyone who feels anxious about visiting the dentist!

Amy T

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I’ve been a patient at Harcourt Dental Clinic for about 5 years now, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received. From the friendly and welcoming staff to the professional and skilled dentists, every visit has been a…

Adrian V

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Martina is an excellent hygienist, professional, kind, and thorough. She made me feel completely at ease and did a fantastic job with my cleaning. I highly recommend her!

Ana R

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I would highly recommend this dental practice. They are very professional in every sense. Special shout-out for Cianna & Kevin, two highly skilled dentists.

Brian R

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I strongly recommend this dental practice. The reception staff are always friendly and polite. Dr Lorna Mahon and her assistant have been excellent in treating a quite difficult dental issue with great care and professionalism.

Matthew V

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Contact us today!

If you have a broken tooth or a cracked tooth, contact us for an assessment and a clear plan.

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