Cannon Street Dental & Implant Centre
Lower Ground, 6 Dowgate Hill, London, EC4R 2SU
Lower Ground, 6 Dowgate Hill, London, EC4R 2SU
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions in the UK, yet many people don’t realise they have it until it has already progressed. Left untreated, what begins as mild gum inflammation can develop into a condition that threatens the foundations of your teeth.
The good news is that gum disease is treatable at every stage, and London patients have access to high-quality periodontal care close to where they work and live.
Key takeaways:
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place, caused by a build-up of plaque along and below the gumline. It exists on a spectrum, from early-stage gingivitis to the more serious periodontitis, and each stage requires a different level of care.
The earliest signs are often subtle and painless, which is why many people miss them. You should contact a dentist if you notice any of the following:
Bleeding gums are never normal. They are one of the clearest early indicators that the gum tissue is inflamed.
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Gingivitis becomes periodontitis when the infection spreads below the gumline and begins to destroy the bone and connective tissue supporting your teeth. At the gingivitis stage, the damage is entirely reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene at home.
Once periodontitis develops, the bone loss it causes is permanent, though further progression can be halted with the right treatment.
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| Stage | Key Features | Reversible? | Treatment |
| Gingivitis | Inflamed, bleeding gums | Yes | Scale and polish, oral hygiene advice |
| Mild Periodontitis | Early bone loss, deeper pockets | Manageable | Root surface debridement |
| Moderate Periodontitis | Significant bone loss, recession | Partially | Deep cleaning, monitoring |
| Severe Periodontitis | Major bone and tooth loss risk | No (but stoppable) | Advanced periodontal therapy |
Deep cleaning for gum disease goes beyond a standard scale and polish. The procedure, known clinically as root surface debridement or root planing, involves removing plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from beneath the gumline and smoothing the root surfaces to discourage further build-up.
The treatment is typically carried out under local anaesthetic, so discomfort is minimal during the procedure. Some patients experience sensitivity for a few days afterwards, but most find it very manageable.
For many patients, root surface debridement significantly reduces pocket depths and brings the condition under control. In more advanced cases, additional interventions may be needed, such as antibiotic therapy, surgical pocket reduction, or bone grafting to rebuild lost support.
The key is regular review. Gum disease is a chronic condition for many people, which means ongoing maintenance appointments are part of long-term management rather than a sign that treatment has failed.
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Busy schedules and a tendency to overlook mild symptoms mean that many people living and working in areas like the City of London put off dental appointments until discomfort becomes difficult to ignore. By that point, the condition has often progressed beyond its early, most treatable stage.
Regular check-ups help detect gum problems early, before bone loss occurs. Proximity to a well-equipped dental practice in central London removes one of the most common barriers to consistent care.
Can gum disease be cured? Gingivitis can be fully reversed with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene. Periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be effectively controlled to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
How long does gum disease treatment take? A course of treatment typically spans several appointments over a few months, followed by regular maintenance visits. The timeline depends on the severity of the condition.
Does gum disease treatment hurt? Deep cleaning is carried out with a local anaesthetic, so the procedure itself is comfortable. Mild soreness or sensitivity in the days following treatment is common but short-lived.
Can gum disease affect my overall health? Research links untreated periodontitis to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Treating gum disease is a meaningful step for your general health, not just your smile.
How often should I have a periodontal check-up? This varies by individual. After active treatment, many patients are placed on a three- or four-month maintenance schedule, which your dentist will tailor based on your risk profile.
At Cannon Street Dental, our team provides comprehensive periodontal assessments and gum disease treatment for patients across central London, including many professionals based in and around the City of London. From initial diagnosis through to long-term maintenance, our treatment options are designed to protect your teeth and your overall health.
Early action is the single most effective step you can take. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs mentioned above, booking a periodontal assessment is the right next move. Protecting your gums now is the most reliable way to protect your teeth for the long term.
020 8075 7106