Gum and Periodontal Treatment in Fortitude Valley
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Gum disease often develops quietly, without pain, so many people are unaware they have it until the condition has progressed. Left untreated, it can lead to receding gums, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.
At Precision Dental, we check your gum health at every examination and provide treatment designed to control inflammation and protect the structures that support your teeth.
What Is Gum and Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease is caused by bacteria in plaque that build up along and beneath the gum line. It generally occurs in two stages.
Gingivitis is the early stage. The gums become red, swollen and may bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis can often be reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care.
Periodontitis is the more advanced stage. Inflammation extends below the gum line, creating pockets between the gums and teeth, and the bone supporting the teeth begins to break down. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but it can often be managed to help slow or stop further damage.
Is Gum Treatment Right for You?
You may benefit from a gum assessment if you notice:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
- Food catching between teeth more than usual
Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, stress, certain medications and a family history of gum disease. Research also suggests links between periodontal disease and general health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
What Happens at Your Appointment
Periodontal Assessment
We measure the depth of the spaces between your gums and teeth, check for bleeding and mobility, and take digital X-rays to assess the supporting bone. We then explain the stage of your gum health and recommend a plan.
Professional Deep Cleaning
Periodontal treatment, sometimes called root planing or debridement, involves carefully removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line and smoothing the root surfaces so the gums can heal. Local anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable, and treatment may be completed over one or more visits.
Review
After several weeks, we reassess your gums to measure how they have responded. If deep pockets remain, further treatment or referral to a periodontist may be discussed.
Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance appointments with our dentist or oral health therapist are important for keeping gum disease under control.
Aftercare and Ongoing Care
Your gums may feel tender and your teeth sensitive for a few days after deep cleaning. Rinse with warm salt water and continue gentle brushing. Long term, brush twice daily, clean between your teeth each day with floss or interdental brushes, and attend maintenance visits as recommended. Quitting smoking can significantly improve gum healing.
Why Choose Precision Dental for Gum Treatment
We take gum health seriously and track changes carefully over time. Our team explains your results clearly, supports you with practical home care advice and offers happy gas for patients who feel anxious. Healthy gums are also essential before treatments such as dental implants.
Fees, Health Funds and Payment Options
The cost of your treatment depends on your individual needs. After your examination, we talk you through your options and the expected fees before any treatment begins. We accept most major health funds, process claims on the spot through HICAPS and are a preferred provider for Bupa, HCF and CBHS. Payment plans are available through DentiCare for eligible patients, subject to terms and conditions. You can learn more on our Prices and Payment Options page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gingivitis can often be reversed. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but with treatment and ongoing maintenance, it can often be managed and stabilised.
Local anaesthetic is used during deep cleaning to keep you comfortable. Some tenderness or sensitivity afterwards is common and usually settles within a few days.
Bleeding is often a sign of inflammation caused by plaque. It should not be ignored, even if it is not painful.
Yes. Advanced periodontitis can damage the bone supporting teeth, leading to loose teeth and, eventually, tooth loss.
The frequency depends on the severity of your condition and how your gums respond. Many patients attend every three to six months.
Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, can mask early warning signs such as bleeding, and slows healing after treatment.
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Book Your Visit at Precision Dental
Whether you are due for a routine visit or ready to talk through a treatment you have been considering, our Fortitude Valley team would be glad to welcome you. Call us on (07) 3852 1160 or book online, and we will find a time that suits you.
The information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for personalised advice from a registered dental practitioner. Individual needs, experiences and results vary.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
