Gum disease: more common than most people realise
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gum and bone tissue surrounding the teeth, caused by the build-up of bacterial plaque. It begins as gingivitis — red, swollen, bleeding gums — and progresses to periodontitis if untreated, destroying the bone that holds teeth in place.
Gum disease is painless in its early stages, which is why many patients are unaware they have it until significant damage has occurred. Research also links periodontitis to systemic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes complications, and preterm birth.
At Carewell Dental in Sentul, Jalan Ipoh, we perform periodontal charting, X-ray bone assessment, and provide tailored treatment from a single scaling session through to a full deep-cleaning programme with maintenance.
From gingivitis to periodontitis
Gingivitis
Infection confined to gum tissue only. No bone loss yet. Fully reversible with professional cleaning and consistent home care.
Periodontitis
Infection spreads to bone. Bone loss is permanent but progression can be halted. Deep cleaning and maintenance keep the disease controlled.
How we treat gum disease
Periodontal Assessment
We chart pocket depths around every tooth, assess bone levels on X-ray, and record gum recession to establish a clear baseline and treatment plan.
Scaling & Root Planing
Under local anaesthesia, we remove calculus and bacteria from below the gum line and smooth root surfaces so gums can reattach. Done quadrant by quadrant for thoroughness.
Review & Reassessment
At 6–8 weeks we re-chart pocket depths. Healed pockets confirm success; persistent deep pockets may require a further session or specialist referral.
Maintenance Programme
Periodontitis does not disappear — it must be maintained. We recommend 3-monthly professional cleaning sessions to prevent recurrence and protect long-term tooth retention.
Warning signs of gum disease
Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing are inflamed — this is the earliest and most common sign of gingivitis.
Persistent Bad Breath
Bacteria in deep gum pockets produce volatile sulphur compounds. Bad breath that does not resolve with brushing may indicate gum disease.
Receding Gums
Gum recession — where teeth appear longer — exposes the root surface and signals bone loss beneath.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
Advanced bone loss removes the support structure. Teeth may feel loose, move slightly, or gaps may open between them.
Gum treatment fees
Fees vary based on the stage of gum disease, number of quadrants requiring deep cleaning, and follow-up requirements. A standard scaling for gingivitis is among our most affordable treatments. Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is priced per quadrant. Panel insurance frequently covers periodontal scaling.
View Dental Fees arrow_forwardCommon questions about gum disease
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis? add
Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease affecting only the gum tissue — it is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Periodontitis is advanced gum disease where the infection has spread to the bone supporting the teeth. Bone loss from periodontitis is not reversible, but progression can be halted with proper treatment and maintenance.
Is gum disease treatment painful? add
Standard scaling for gingivitis is generally well tolerated. Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) for periodontitis is performed under local anaesthesia so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity and soreness for 2–3 days afterwards is normal.
How many visits does treatment take? add
Gingivitis typically resolves in 1–2 scaling appointments. Periodontitis usually requires a series of deep cleaning appointments — typically two to four sessions — followed by a review 6–8 weeks later. Ongoing 3-monthly maintenance scaling is then recommended to prevent recurrence.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss? add
Yes. Advanced periodontitis destroys the bone and ligaments holding the teeth in place, leading to loose teeth and eventually tooth loss if untreated. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Early treatment prevents this outcome.
Is gum treatment covered by insurance in Malaysia? add
Many panel plans cover scaling and gum treatments. Carewell Dental is a panel clinic for AIA Berhad, HealthMetrics, PM Care, Red Alert, ASP Medical Group, Health Connect, MediLink-Global, and E-MAS. Bring your panel card and we will verify your entitlement before treatment.
