Gum disease and gum surgery: what to know

What patients are quoted

At a glance

Can it be undone?

Lost gum and bone do not return, but regeneration material may be used.

How long?

Usually go home the same day; stitches out 7 to 10 days later (Guy’s).

Rinse

Antiseptic mouthwash for at least 1 to 2 weeks (Guy’s).

Ask first

Has deep cleaning been tried first, and who maintains it?

What gum disease and gum surgery are

Guy’s and St Thomas’ says bacteria in plaque irritate the gums and cause bleeding. If untreated, gum disease can destroy the gum and bone supporting the teeth. Surgery is considered when gum disease still needs treatment after a dentist has deep-cleaned the teeth and taught you how to clean them.

What happens in gum surgery

1. Local anaesthetic.You stay awake without pain.
2. Access.The surgeon cuts around the gum edge and lifts it to reach the roots.
3. Cleaning and reshaping.Plaque and tartar are removed, and gum and bone may be reshaped.
4. Regeneration material.Bone or attachment regeneration material may be applied.
5. Stitches.Hold the gum in place. Removed at follow-up 7 to 10 days later.

Risks, recovery and long-term care

• Risks and side effects: bleeding, bruising and swelling of the gums or face, temporarily looser teeth, sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods, gaps between teeth, and teeth looking longer.
• Recovery: gums will be sore; paracetamol for a few days; you cannot brush the treated teeth straight away, so use an antiseptic mouthwash for at least 1 to 2 weeks.
• Maintenance: routine usually set about 3 months after surgery; regular scaling often still needed, on fewer teeth.
• Smoking slows healing. If you cannot quit, stop for at least 2 weeks after surgery (Guy’s).

Questions to ask before you agree

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• Has non-surgical deep cleaning been tried first, and what was the result?
• What is the diagnosis and how severe is the bone loss?
• What are the alternatives, including no treatment?
• Who will do the follow-up and the maintenance cleaning at home?
• What should I expect in the first two weeks, and what are the warning signs?

Gum treatment checklist

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• I have a written diagnosis and X-rays
• Deep cleaning was tried or ruled out for a stated reason
• I know the alternatives
• I know who removes stitches and who does maintenance at home
• I know what to do about smoking before and after

Before you book in Türkiye

The same checks apply whichever treatment you choose. Each links to a full guide.

• Check the authorisation. Make sure the clinic, and any agency, holds a Ministry of Health authorisation for international patients. How to verify it
• Get the plan in writing, tooth by tooth. It should name the treatment, materials and brands for each tooth, and the full price. Questions to ask
• Read the guarantee before you pay. Find out what it covers, for how long and who pays for travel if something needs fixing. Guarantees
• Know what you are agreeing to. You have the right to clear information about risks and alternatives before you consent. Informed consent
• Take your records home. Ask for X-rays, scans and a written summary, including implant brands and sizes. Dental records
• Plan aftercare before you go. Find a dentist at home who will see you for checks and problems. Follow-up care
• Know where to turn if things go wrong. Complaint routes

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust: periodontal (gum) surgery

Further reading from NHS and professional sources:

• NHS: gum disease