Suite 603, 8 Elsie Street, Burwood NSW 213402 8188 6688
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Gum & Dental Specialist Centre — Regenerate for good

Gingivitis & periodontitis

Gum disease

Gum disease is inflammation of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is often painless until it is advanced, which is why many people only find out at a dental check-up.

Common signs

  • Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Persistent bad breath or taste
  • Gums shrinking back from the teeth
  • Teeth that feel loose or have moved
Treatment room at the Burwood centre

Gingivitis and periodontitis

Gum disease starts with bacterial plaque along the gumline. In gingivitis, only the gums are inflamed and the condition is reversible with good cleaning.

In periodontitis, the inflammation extends deeper and the attachment and bone supporting the teeth are gradually lost. That damage doesn't grow back by itself, but the disease can be brought under control and, in some cases, lost support can be partly rebuilt.

Four stages: healthy tooth and gum, gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis
From healthy gums to gingivitis, then periodontitis, where plaque and tartar extend below the gumline and supporting bone is progressively lost.

Who is more at risk

Smoking or vaping

Increases risk and can mask bleeding.

Diabetes

Especially when blood sugar is not well controlled.

Family history

Some people are more susceptible.

Hard-to-clean areas

Crowding, old restorations, gaps.

Gum disease and your general health

Periodontitis is associated with several general health conditions, most clearly diabetes, where the relationship appears to work in both directions. If you have diabetes or heart disease, let us know at your assessment so we can plan with your doctor where needed.

How we treat it

  1. 01

    Assessment & diagnosis

    We measure the gum attachment around every tooth, check bleeding, recession and mobility, and take X-rays where needed. Your condition is staged and graded so you know exactly where you stand.

  2. 02

    Home care & risk factors

    A cleaning routine fitted to your mouth, and support with risk factors such as smoking and diabetes control.

  3. 03

    Deep cleaning

    Root surface debridement under local anaesthetic removes deposits from below the gumline. We then review how the gums have responded.

  4. 04

    Surgery, if needed

    Sites that don't respond may need regenerative surgery, which aims to rebuild lost bone and attachment. About periodontal surgery

  5. 05

    Long-term maintenance

    Regular supportive care, usually every few months, shared with your own dentist. This is what keeps results stable.

Common questions

Does treatment hurt?

Deep cleaning is done with local anaesthetic, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Gums can be tender for a few days afterwards.

Can gum disease be cured?

Periodontitis can be controlled and kept stable for the long term. Because it can return, ongoing maintenance is part of treatment.

Will I lose my teeth?

Most teeth can be kept when gum disease is treated and maintained. Your assessment will tell you which teeth are at risk and what can be done.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can book directly. If your dentist has referred you, bring the letter and any recent X-rays.