Understanding Gum Health and Preventing Gum Disease

To keep our teeth for life, we must maintain healthy gums. Beneath the pink gum tissue is a supportive layer of bone, which holds our teeth in place.

Like overall health, gum health fluctuates throughout life. Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions, affecting many adults and occasionally children. It can cause:

• Gum inflammation (gingivitis) and bleeding
• Tooth sensitivity and receding gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Tooth loss (in advanced cases)

Because gum disease often develops without pain, many people don’t realise they have it until it becomes advanced. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings help detect issues early and prevent long-term damage.

How Is Gum Disease Treated and Can It Be Reversed?

Gum disease treatment focuses on removing harmful bacteria and plaque that weaken the bone and gums. The best way to do this is through deep cleaning with specialised dental instruments.

While treatment cannot regenerate lost bone, it prevents further damage and stabilises your oral health. If bone loss or gum recession has already occurred, additional procedures may help:

• Bone Grafting: Rebuilds bone in areas affected by severe periodontal disease.
• Gum Grafting: Covers exposed roots and restores gum tissue.
• Periodontal Surgery: Treats advanced gum disease and deep pockets.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home and attending regular dental cleanings are key to long-term gum health.

Advanced Gum Care and Professional Hygiene Treatments

At Roka Dental, our gum disease treatment appointments include:

• Comprehensive gum and bone health screening
• Risk assessment for periodontal disease

We use modern techniques to ensure effective and comfortable treatment:

• Ultrasonic Scaling – Removes tartar and bacteria deep below the gumline.
• Hand Scaling – Targets stubborn deposits for a thorough clean.
• Airflow™ Therapy – Gently cleans deep gum pockets and stains.
• Polishing – Leaves teeth smooth and fresh.

If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bad breath (halitosis), and even systemic health risks. Our experienced dental hygienists ensure that every appointment allows sufficient time to provide high-quality gum care.

For patients with advanced periodontal disease, we may recommend a referral to a specialist periodontist for further care.