When your gums feel sore, bleed when brushing, or seem to be pulling away from your teeth, it’s natural to feel concerned. Gum disease is far more common than most people realise, and early treatment makes a huge difference. One of the most common questions patients ask is: how long does gum treatment take? The answer depends on the stage of gum disease, the type of treatment you need, and how well you look after your mouth afterwards.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the typical timelines for gum treatments in London, from mild gingivitis to more advanced periodontal care, so you’ll know what to expect.
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. They hold your teeth firmly in place and protect the underlying bone. If gum disease is left untreated, it can progress silently, eventually leading to tooth loss and even affecting your overall health.
The good news? With timely treatment, most gum issues can be managed or even reversed. The time it takes depends on how early the problem is detected.
If your gums are inflamed but the bone hasn’t been affected, you may only need a professional cleaning combined with improved general dentistry care at home.
When gum disease progresses, the bone supporting the teeth may start to break down. This requires a deeper cleaning known as scaling and root planing.
In severe cases, surgical treatment may be necessary. This could involve flap surgery (lifting the gum to clean underneath), grafts to replace lost tissue, or even laser therapy.
Many patients are curious about laser treatment for gum disease. It is less invasive than traditional surgery and often requires fewer appointments.
Several factors influence how long your gum treatment will take:
The initial treatment is only the first step. Long-term gum health depends on regular maintenance. Most patients with a history of gum disease are advised to have professional cleanings every 3–4 months.
You may notice some temporary sensitivity or minor bleeding after treatment, but this usually settles quickly. With consistent oral hygiene and follow-up visits, your gums can stay healthy for years to come.
If cost is a concern, you can explore our fees and finance options to make ongoing care more manageable.
1. Is gum treatment painful?
Most treatments, including deep cleaning, are performed under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some mild discomfort or sensitivity afterwards is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
2. Can gum disease be completely cured?
Gingivitis can often be reversed with prompt care. Periodontitis, however, cannot be fully cured but can be controlled to prevent further damage.
3. How do I know if I need gum treatment?
Signs include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, swollen gums, or teeth that feel loose. Regular dental check-ups are the best way to catch issues early.
4. What happens if I don’t treat gum disease?
Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to wider health issues, including heart disease and diabetes.
5. Will I need ongoing treatment?
Yes, maintenance is essential. Even after successful treatment, most patients benefit from more frequent hygiene visits to keep gum disease at bay.
So, how long does gum treatment take? The answer is: it depends. Mild gum problems can improve within a couple of weeks, while more advanced cases may take several months of care and monitoring. What matters most is seeking treatment early and sticking to the recommended maintenance plan.
If you’re worried about your gum health, don’t delay. Early action not only shortens the treatment time but also saves your smile. You can book an appointment today to get personalised advice from our team.
