Periodontal care · Gum disease
Healthy gums, the foundation of a healthy mouth.
Bleeding, tender or receding gums are common signs of gum disease. At our Norlane practice we assess your gums carefully, explain what is happening, and plan treatment that suits the stage of disease and your overall health.
Gum assessment
Scale and root planing
Ongoing periodontal care
Outcomes vary between individuals
Treatment after assessment
Norlane · Geelong · est. 1974
Gum assessment
Scale and root planing
Ongoing periodontal care
Outcomes vary between individuals
Treatment after assessment
Norlane · Geelong · est. 1974
Norlane · Geelong
One location since 1974
One location since 1974
Gum disease · Norlane
Gum disease often starts quietly. Early care makes a difference.
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. In its early stage, gingivitis, gums may look red or bleed when you brush. If it progresses to periodontitis, the gums and supporting bone can break down, and teeth may eventually loosen.
Because early gum disease often causes no pain, regular check-ups matter. Your dentist checks the health of your gums, looks for signs of bone loss on X-rays where needed, and talks you through the options.
Norlane Dental
One location since 1974
Signs to look for
Common signs of gum disease.
Any of these are worth a check. Only a clinical assessment can confirm what is happening in your mouth.
N° 01
Gums · Bleeding
Bleeding when you brush
Bleeding when brushing or flossing is often an early sign of gum inflammation, even when it does not hurt.
N° 02
Gums · Colour
Red or swollen gums
Healthy gums are usually firm and pale pink. Redness, puffiness or tenderness can indicate inflammation.
N° 03
Breath · Taste
Ongoing bad breath
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste can be linked to bacteria around the gum line.
N° 04
Gums · Recession
Receding gums
Teeth that look longer, or new sensitivity near the gum line, can be a sign of recession.
N° 05
Teeth · Movement
Loose or shifting teeth
Changes in your bite, or teeth that feel loose, can occur when the supporting bone is affected.
N° 06
Risk · Factors
Higher-risk groups
Smoking, diabetes, pregnancy and some medications can increase the risk of gum disease. Tell your dentist about any changes to your health.
Why it matters
Your gums and your general health.
Research has found associations between gum disease and other health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Looking after your gums is part of looking after your overall wellbeing, and your dentist may suggest you also speak with your GP where relevant.
How we treat it
Gum treatment, step by step.
01.
Assessment
Your dentist checks your gums, measures the pockets around each tooth and takes X-rays where needed to look at the supporting bone.
02.
Professional clean
A thorough scale and clean removes plaque and calculus (tartar) above the gum line.
03.
Deep cleaning
Where needed, scaling and root planing cleans below the gum line. Local anaesthetic is used so you are comfortable.
04.
Home care plan
We show you the brushing and cleaning-between techniques and products suited to your gums.
05.
Review and maintenance
We re-check your gums after healing and recommend a maintenance schedule. Some cases may be referred to a registered periodontist.
Treatment options we may discuss.
Please note
Options shown are general information only. Suitability is determined after a clinical assessment, and outcomes vary between individuals.
01.
Preventive
Professional cleaning
For gingivitis, a professional clean and improved home care are often enough to help gums settle.
02.
Non-surgical
Scaling and root planing
Cleaning of the root surfaces below the gum line, usually over one or more visits under local anaesthetic.
03.
Adjunctive
Antimicrobial therapy
In some cases, antimicrobial rinses or locally applied medication may be used alongside cleaning.
04.
Referral
Periodontist referral
For advanced disease, we may refer you to a registered specialist periodontist for further assessment and care.
Gum disease can usually be managed with the right care and regular reviews. If you have noticed bleeding or tender gums, call (03) 5278 2666.
Gum treatments in Norlane, Geelong
Let’s check your gums.
Request an appointment online or call (03) 5278 2666. We are open six days a week, including Saturdays.
Location
Norlane Dental Aesthetics & Implants
21-29 Princes Highway
Norlane VIC 3214
Direct line
(03) 5278 2666
Reception is happy to help with enquiries and appointments
Hours
Mon – Thu · 8:30am – 6:30pm
Fri · 8:30am – 5:30pm
Sat · 8:30am – 4:00pm
Parking
Ample free on-site parking
Easy access from the Princes Highway, Norlane