Bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath that keeps coming back or teeth that feel loose are all signs that your gums need attention. At Qualiteeth, gum treatment in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor is planned and carried out by a periodontist (gum specialist) registered on the National Specialist Register, at the branch nearest you. This page explains the treatments available, what each one involves and how much gum treatment costs.
Gum treatment by a registered specialist
Many gum problems can be handled by a general dentist with scaling and good home care. When gum disease is advanced, keeps coming back, or affects implants, it is worth seeing a periodontist, a dentist with several years of postgraduate training in the gums and the bone that support the teeth.
Dr Wong Hong Zhang is our visiting periodontist. He is registered on the National Specialist Register and his practice is limited to periodontology. He holds a Master of Orofacial Sciences (Periodontology) and a Doctor in Periodontology from MAHSA University, and the MFDS of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Read his profile.
Which gum treatment do I need?
| Problem | Usual treatment |
|---|---|
| Gums bleed when brushing, mild swelling (gingivitis) | Scaling and polishing, home care advice |
| Deep gum pockets, bone loss, bad breath (periodontitis) | Gum assessment and deep cleaning (root surface debridement) |
| Pockets that stay deep after deep cleaning | Gum surgery (flap surgery), sometimes with bone regeneration |
| Receding gums, exposed roots, sensitivity | Gum grafting, where suitable |
| Short teeth or not enough tooth for a crown | Crown lengthening |
| Bleeding, swelling or bone loss around an implant | Peri-implant treatment |
| Loose teeth from gum disease | Gum treatment, then splinting or replacement if needed |
Gum treatments explained
1. Gum assessment (periodontal charting)
The specialist measures the depth of the gum pocket around every tooth, checks for bleeding and loose teeth, and uses X-rays to see the bone level. This shows how advanced the disease is and which teeth need the most care.
2. Deep cleaning (root surface debridement)
Tartar and bacteria are removed from below the gumline and the root surfaces are cleaned, usually under local anaesthetic, over one or more visits. For most people with periodontitis this is the main treatment, and it is often all that is needed.
3. Gum surgery
If some pockets are still deep after deep cleaning, the gum can be gently lifted so the specialist can clean the roots directly and reshape the bone. In some cases, materials are placed to help the bone and gum regrow.
4. Gum grafting for receding gums
Where gums have pulled back and the root is exposed, a small piece of gum tissue can be used to cover the root. This can reduce sensitivity and protect the tooth. Not every recession needs a graft; the specialist will explain which ones benefit.
5. Crown lengthening
A minor procedure that reshapes the gum and bone so more of the tooth is exposed. It is used when a tooth is broken near the gumline and needs a crown, or to improve a “gummy” smile.
6. Treatment around dental implants
Implants can get a gum infection similar to gum disease (peri-implantitis). Early treatment cleans the implant surface and helps keep the implant. If you have implants and notice bleeding or swelling, see a dentist promptly.
7. Maintenance
Gum disease is controlled, not cured once and forgotten. After treatment, regular professional cleaning, usually every 3 to 6 months, keeps it stable.
How much does gum treatment cost in Malaysia?
- Scaling and polishing: from RM80
- Gum assessment, deep cleaning, gum surgery, grafting and crown lengthening: the cost depends on how many teeth are involved and how advanced the disease is. After the gum assessment, the specialist gives you a written plan with the full cost before any treatment starts.
Treating gum disease early usually costs far less than replacing teeth later with bridges or implants.
Gum disease and your general health
Gum disease is linked with diabetes: poorly controlled blood sugar makes gum disease worse, and treating gum disease can help blood sugar control. Smoking also raises the risk and slows healing. Tell your dentist about any medical conditions and medicines you take.
Specialist appointments near you in the Klang Valley
Our specialists visit all Qualiteeth branches by appointment, so you can be seen close to home:
- Kepong & KL North: Kepong (Taman Sri Bintang), Kepong Baru, Desa Aman Puri, Jinjang Selatan
- Selayang, Gombak & Rawang: Selayang, Gombak, Rawang, Anggun City Rawang
- Sungai Buloh & Damansara: Sungai Buloh, Bandar Sri Damansara
- Petaling Jaya & Shah Alam: Aman Suria, PJ, SS3 Taman Universiti, Subang Murni
- Cheras & Serdang: Cheras, Olive Hill, Seri Kembangan
Book an appointment and tell us you would like to see a specialist. The branch will confirm the date on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get gum treatment in Kuala Lumpur?
Qualiteeth’s visiting periodontist sees patients by appointment at our branches in Kepong, Kepong Baru, Desa Aman Puri, Jinjang, Selayang, Gombak, Sungai Buloh, Bandar Sri Damansara, Cheras and other Klang Valley locations.
Is gum treatment done by a specialist?
Gum treatment for advanced or recurring gum disease is planned by our periodontist, who is registered on the National Specialist Register. Routine scaling is done by our general dentists.
Does deep cleaning hurt?
Deep cleaning is usually done under local anaesthetic, so the area is numb during treatment. The gums may feel tender for a few days afterwards.
How many visits does gum treatment take?
Deep cleaning usually takes one to four visits, followed by a review about six to eight weeks later. Gum surgery, if needed, is planned after the review.
Can receding gums grow back?
Gums do not grow back on their own, but treatment can stop recession getting worse, and gum grafting can cover exposed roots in suitable cases.
How much does gum treatment cost?
Scaling starts from RM80. The cost of deep cleaning and gum surgery depends on the number of teeth and how advanced the disease is, and is explained in full after the gum assessment.
This page gives general information and is not a diagnosis. Your dentist will advise on suitable treatment after an examination. Prices are starting prices; the full cost is explained before treatment begins.