About this treatment
Healthy gums are the foundation of healthy teeth. Plaque that is not brushed away hardens into tartar, which only a professional can remove. Left alone it irritates the gums, causing bleeding and bad breath, and can eventually damage the bone that holds teeth in place.
When you may need it
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, puffy or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Yellow or brown build-up near the gum line
- Teeth that feel loose
How treatment works
- Gum examinationWe check your gums, measure any pockets around the teeth and take X-rays if required.
- ScalingTartar and plaque are removed above and below the gum line.
- PolishingTeeth are polished to remove stains and make it harder for plaque to stick.
- Deeper cleaning if neededIf gum disease has gone deeper, we plan more detailed cleaning of the roots.
- Home care planWe show you the right brushing and flossing technique for your mouth.
What it feels like. Scaling is usually well tolerated. If your gums are very tender we can numb the area. Light bleeding and some sensitivity in the first few days is common, and gums often look healthier within a short time as they heal.
Aftercare and tips
- Brush gently twice a day with a soft brush, angling toward the gum line
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes
- Use any mouthwash only as advised
- Avoid tobacco, which makes gum disease worse
- Come for professional cleaning at the interval we recommend, commonly every six months
Common questions
Does scaling weaken the teeth?
No. It removes the deposits that damage the gums. Gaps you notice afterwards were previously filled with tartar.
Why do my gums bleed?
Usually because of inflammation caused by plaque. Healthy gums should not bleed, so it is a sign to get them checked.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum inflammation can often be reversed with cleaning and good home care. More advanced gum disease can be controlled, which is why early treatment matters.
This page gives general information and is not a substitute for an examination. Your dentist will advise what suits you.
Healthy teeth.