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Periodontics: treatment for gum disease
Periodontics is care for the gums and the bone that hold teeth in place. Treatment depends on how far gum disease has gone.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. It does not replace a check by a dentist or doctor. If you are worried, contact a dental professional.
Early gum disease
- Your dentist shows you how to clean well, for example with interdental brushes.
- They may suggest a cleaning by a dental hygienist.
- If you smoke, they will advise you to stop.
More serious gum disease
- Deep cleaning under the gums.
- Sometimes antibiotics.
- Sometimes gum surgery or removing teeth.
- Your dentist may send you to a gum specialist.
Why it matters
Severe gum disease is very common worldwide. It can make teeth loose and fall out. Gum disease and diabetes affect each other. People with diabetes should have their gums checked.
When to see a dentist
- Your gums bleed often.
- Your gums have shrunk back, or teeth feel loose.
- You have diabetes and have not had your gums checked.
Related: Bleeding gums · All dental treatments
Sources
Paraphrased in plain words. Links checked and accessed 21 Oct 2026.
- NHS (UK). “Gum disease”. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gum-disease/ (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- European Federation of Periodontology. “What is periodontitis?”. https://www.efp.org/for-patients/what-is-periodontitis/ (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- World Health Organization. “Oral health – fact sheet”. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health (accessed 21 Oct 2026).