Periodontal treatment focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and managing gum disease — a common yet serious condition that can affect both oral health and general well-being. Gum disease begins with inflammation (gingivitis) and, if untreated, can progress to periodontitis, which can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth.
At Harpenden Dental Practice, we offer non-surgical treatments to remove harmful plaque and bacteria from beneath the gum line, as well as ongoing maintenance visits to keep your gums healthy and prevent relapse.
Protects teeth and supporting structures.
Improves gum health and comfort.
Strengthens the foundation that keeps teeth secure.
Removes bacteria responsible for bad breath.
Healthy gums are linked to better heart and systemic health.
Our experienced team in Harpenden is dedicated to preserving your natural smile through gentle yet effective periodontal care. We use advanced techniques to halt gum disease progression, reduce inflammation, and restore comfort, all in a calm and supportive setting.
Our approach ensures you feel comfortable and informed at every stage, whether it’s your first treatment or a regular maintenance visit.
We begin with a detailed examination, including periodontal charting to measure gum pockets and assess inflammation levels.
For patients showing signs of gum disease, we carry out deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) beneath the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from root surfaces, allowing gums to heal.
You’ll receive tailored guidance on brushing, flossing, and interdental cleaning to help maintain healthy gums between visits.
Once active treatment is complete, we recommend regular maintenance appointments to monitor your gums, remove any new build-up, and ensure the disease does not return.
If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, book an appointment today to protect your smile.
Check out our FAQ’s to hopefully answer some of the more common questions that you may have. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us and our team will be happy to help.
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth, caused by bacteria in plaque.
The two main stages are gingivitis (mild inflammation) and periodontitis (advanced gum and bone damage).
Poor oral hygiene, plaque buildup, smoking, genetics, and certain health conditions like diabetes can cause gum disease.
Symptoms include bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, and swelling or tenderness.
Gingivitis can be reversed with professional cleaning and good oral care; advanced periodontitis requires ongoing management.
Dentists check gum pockets, measure bone levels with X-rays, and assess inflammation during examination.
Treatments include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotic therapy, and sometimes surgical procedures.
It’s a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths root surfaces.
Treatment is performed under local anesthesia and is generally comfortable. Mild soreness may occur afterward.
Deep cleaning may take one or two visits depending on the severity and number of teeth involved.
Surgery may be required for severe cases to clean deep pockets or regenerate lost bone and tissue.
After treatment, maintenance visits every 3–4 months are recommended to prevent recurrence.
Yes, untreated periodontitis can destroy bone and tissue, leading to tooth loss.
Yes, research links periodontal disease with heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions.
Brush twice daily, floss regularly, use an antibacterial mouthwash, and visit your dentist for cleanings.
Many dental plans cover deep cleaning and periodontal therapy. Check your plan for details.
4A Leyton Rd,
Harpenden,
Hertfordshire,
AL5 2TL
