Gum health and periodontal care
Gum Disease Treatment in Singapore
Bleeding, swollen or receding gums can be signs of gum disease. An assessment can identify the stage of the condition and whether regular scaling, deep cleaning or further periodontal care may be suitable.
Treatment recommendations and fees depend on your individual dental condition.
Common signs
Bleeding, swelling, persistent bad breath, receding gums or loose teeth.
Assessment
Your dentist checks the gums, plaque levels, pocket depths and supporting tissues.
Possible care
Scaling and polishing, deep cleaning, home-care guidance and follow-up reviews.
Understanding the condition
What is gum disease?
Gum disease affects the tissues supporting the teeth. It commonly begins when plaque, a film containing bacteria, builds up around the gumline and causes inflammation.
The two common stages are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the earlier stage and may be reversible with appropriate professional care and daily oral hygiene. Periodontitis is more advanced and can affect the bone and tissues supporting the teeth.
Gingivitis
The gums may look red or swollen and can bleed during brushing or flossing. At this stage, there is no irreversible loss of supporting bone.
Periodontitis
Inflammation can create pockets between the gums and teeth. As supporting tissue and bone are affected, teeth may become mobile and require more involved care.
Why it develops
Risk factors for gum disease
Plaque accumulation is a major cause, while several health and lifestyle factors can increase susceptibility or affect healing.
- Inconsistent brushing, interdental cleaning or professional maintenance
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Diabetes and some conditions that affect the immune system
- Hormonal changes that can make gums more sensitive
- Certain medicines that affect saliva flow or gum tissue
- A family history of gum disease
What to look out for
Symptoms of gum disease
Gum disease can progress with few obvious symptoms. A dental examination is needed to assess whether gum inflammation or supporting tissue loss is present.
Changes around the gums
Bleeding during brushing, redness, swelling, tenderness, gum recession or discharge around the gumline.
Changes in the mouth
Persistent bad breath or taste, deep spaces between the teeth and gums, or signs of a gum infection.
Changes to the teeth
Loose or shifting teeth, or a change in how the teeth or partial dentures meet when biting.
Seek prompt advice if you have increasing swelling, significant pain, pus, fever, facial swelling or difficulty swallowing.
Your care pathway
Gum disease assessment and treatment
The appropriate approach depends on the stage of gum disease, the areas affected and your general oral health. At AllSmiles Dental Care, gum disease treatment typically follows three stages, from an initial gum assessment to professional cleaning and ongoing maintenance.
1
Gum assessment
Your dentist examines the gums and teeth, reviews symptoms and relevant health information, and may measure gum pockets or recommend dental X-rays when indicated.
2
Professional cleaning
For gingivitis, scaling and polishing may be recommended. Periodontitis may require deeper cleaning below the gumline, sometimes over more than one visit. Anaesthesia options can be discussed when appropriate.
3
Review and maintenance
Follow-up helps assess the response to treatment. Your dentist may recommend tailored home care, maintenance visits or referral for further periodontal management.
After treatment
Looking after your gums in the days following treatment helps them heal well and lowers the risk of the problem coming back. At AllSmiles Dental Care, your dentist will explain what to expect and the aftercare that suits your treatment.
Eating after anaesthesia
If local anaesthesia was used, wait until normal sensation returns before eating to reduce the risk of biting the lips, cheek or tongue.
Sensitivity or discomfort
Some temporary sensitivity or discomfort may occur. Follow the aftercare instructions provided and contact the clinic if symptoms are severe, worsening or unexpected.
Prescribed medicines
Take any medicine only as directed by your dentist or doctor. Contact the clinic if you have questions or experience a possible reaction.
Ongoing maintenance
Daily plaque control and recommended follow-up visits are important because gum disease can recur even after treatment.
Fees and planning
Gum disease treatment costs
Fees depend on the condition of the gums, the number of areas treated and the type of cleaning required. The ranges below are a guide; your dentist will advise on the proposed treatment and fees after assessment.
| Service | Description | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| Regular scaling and polishing | Removal of plaque and tartar as part of routine or gingivitis care | $70–$120 |
| Stain removal | Removal of surface stains such as those from coffee, tea or smoking | $35–$50 |
| Deep cleaning, per tooth | Cleaning below the gumline for selected areas affected by periodontitis | From $50 |
| Deep cleaning, per quadrant | Deep cleaning for a larger section of the mouth | $100–$250 |
Ask our team what is included in the quoted fee and whether consultation, X-rays, anaesthesia or follow-up visits are charged separately. Eligibility to use MediSave depends on the procedure and prevailing rules.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions about gum disease treatment
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation limited to the gums and may improve with professional care and effective plaque control. Periodontitis affects the deeper supporting tissues and bone around the teeth and may require more involved treatment and ongoing maintenance.
Does deep cleaning hurt?
Comfort varies with the depth of cleaning and sensitivity of the area. Your dentist can explain what to expect and discuss local anaesthesia when appropriate. Temporary sensitivity or soreness can occur after treatment.
How long does recovery take after deep cleaning?
Recovery differs between patients and treated areas. Mild tenderness, bleeding or tooth sensitivity may occur for a short period. Follow your dentist’s aftercare advice and contact the clinic if symptoms are severe, worsening or do not settle as expected.
Can gum disease return after treatment?
Yes. Gum disease can recur if plaque builds up again or risk factors are not managed. Daily brushing and interdental cleaning, together with the maintenance schedule recommended by your dentist, can help control the condition.
How much does gum disease treatment cost in Singapore?
The fee depends on the assessment, areas treated and any additional services required. See the treatment cost guide on this page and ask the clinic to confirm what your quotation includes.
When should I see a dentist about my gums?
Arrange an assessment if you notice recurring bleeding, swelling, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth or changes in your bite. Seek prompt advice for significant pain, pus, facial swelling, fever or difficulty swallowing.
Content by the AllSmiles Dental Editorial Team. This information is general and does not replace an individual examination, diagnosis or treatment plan.
Ready to check on your gum health?
Gum disease is easier to manage when it is picked up early. Speak to the team at AllSmiles Dental Care to find out where your gums stand and what steps make sense for you.
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