Treating Gum Disease
In some cases gum disease can be treated easily by a dentist, although more severe cases may require further treatment. Remember the best way to reduce gum disease is by looking after your mouth well, so don't forget to ask your dentist for tips on how best to brush your teeth.
One thing your dentist is likely to do is to scale your teeth. This removes the hardened plaque - known as tartar or calculus - from the tooth, especially behind your teeth and just below the gum line. To find out more about the scale and polish, click here.
If you have advanced gum disease, your dentist may advise that you have a longer, more intensive treatment. This is known as root planing or curretage, and is basically an extension of the more usual scale and polish. The dentist - or hygienist - will give your teeth a really deep clean, going below the gum line and clearing any pockets of plaque.