Periodontal (Gum Disease) Treatment in East Finchley

Periodontal treatment is needed when bacteria and plaque cause inflammation and infection in the gums. If you or a family member notice symptoms, you should book an assessment. The earliest stage, gingivitis, often shows red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially when brushing. If untreated, it may progress to periodontitis, which includes persistent bad breath, gums that recede making teeth look longer, sensitive teeth, or teeth that feel loose. Many people in East Finchley seek help when these changes appear, and early intervention is the best way to prevent irreversible damage and tooth loss.

The process aims to be thorough and comfortable. First, you have an initial consultation lasting about 45 to 60 minutes with a detailed exam, including measuring pockets between teeth and gums. We may use digital imaging to assess bone levels. Next, the treatment itself, often called scaling and root planing, typically takes one or two appointments of 60 to 90 minutes each. Under local anaesthetic, we clean plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to help the gums reattach. Finally, we schedule a follow-up after 4 to 6 weeks to check healing and discuss an ongoing maintenance plan to keep the disease under control.

After treatment you may feel some tenderness and sensitivity. For the first two days the gums might feel sore, and this is usually manageable with over the counter pain relief. Teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold for up to a week. A soft diet is helpful for the first day or two, and very hot or spicy foods should be avoided. Maintain excellent oral hygiene, but be gentle around the treated areas for a few days. Red flags requiring contact: seek our help if you experience severe or increasing pain after two days, significant swelling, or signs of infection. Office hours are Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5 and Tue, Thu 11 to 7. For emergencies outside hours, visit A and E or call 111.

In very early gum disease, gingivitis, a strict oral hygiene routine and regular professional cleanings with our hygienist may reverse the condition. This is the most conservative and cost-effective approach. When periodontitis develops, scaling and root planing remains the preferred method. In advanced cases where deep cleaning falls short, we may discuss referral for surgical options like flap surgery or bone grafts. At your Finchley consultation, we explain which option best fits your clinical needs and long‑term health.

A patient from East Finchley noticed gum bleeding while brushing. Examination showed early gingivitis. Treatment involved a single thorough 60-minute hygiene appointment focused on deep cleaning and oral hygiene education. This preventive approach restored gum health quickly and prevented progression to more serious disease.

An older gentleman from a local family had loose teeth and receding gums. Assessment showed moderate periodontitis. The plan included two 90-minute sessions of scaling and root planing under local anaesthetic. He now attends follow-up hygiene visits every three months to manage the condition. This has stabilized his teeth and reduced further bone loss.

As a private practice, we provide a detailed, personalised treatment plan with all costs outlined after your initial assessment. Prices vary with the severity of the condition and the number of sessions required. We accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact us to discuss coverage and receive a clear estimate with no hidden fees.

To make an informed choice for your family s health, here are key questions to ask whether you choose us or another practice in North London: Based on my examination, what stage is my gum disease at? Will the treatment be performed by a dentist or a dental hygienist or therapist? How many appointments will I need and how long will they take? What home care routine do you recommend after treatment? What are the long term maintenance requirements to keep my gums healthy? Does the quoted price include follow up appointments?