If left untreated, it will lead to damage of the gum and the underlying bone. This will result in the teeth becoming loose and eventually falling out! Some patients are genetically prone to gum disease.

It has also been shown that untreated gum disease can lead to heart disease, among many other diseases. It is also associated with diabetes and osteoporosis.

Regular scaling and polishing every 6 months is necessary to remove the plaque/ tartar/ germs to prevent it from affecting the gums and bone level. Sometimes apart from scaling and polishing, it is necessary to do root planing (deep cleaning) to remove those plaque that are deposited deep in the gums and is done comfortably under Local Anaesthesia.

Medication such as antibiotics and antiseptic mouthwash may be required as an adjunct treatment to gum disease. For some patients who are genetically prone to gum disease, it is necessary to visit the clinic once every 4 months to maintain the gum and bone level. 

For a perfect smile, your gums have to look healthy and be light-pink in colour. If a lot of your gums is visible when you smile, you can get help to re-contour the excess gums, giving you a less gummy smile. As we age, our gums may recede and this can also be corrected with plastic surgery. Receding gums often result in teeth sensitivity and gives the unpleasant appearance that your teeth are no longer normal.

3D Bone augmentation can also be done to add volume to the gums prior to procedures like implant or bridgework so that the final result will be more natural and aesthetically pleasant.