Last updated: January 2026. This guide covers gum disease treatment costs in the UK, including NHS charges, private prices, regional variations, and who qualifies for free treatment.
Gum disease affects approximately 50% of UK adults, yet many people delay treatment because they're unsure about the costs involved. The good news is that NHS treatment can cost as little as £27.40, whilst private options offer more comprehensive care for those who need it.
This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay for gum disease treatment in 2026, whether you choose NHS or private care, and how to reduce your costs through early intervention.
Quick Cost Summary: Gum Disease Treatment UK
Before exploring the details, here's what you can expect to pay for gum disease treatment in the UK.
| Treatment Type | NHS Cost (England) | Private Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Simple gum treatment (scale & polish) | £27.40 (Band 1) | £89–£195 |
| Deep cleaning (root planing) | £75.30 (Band 2) | £199–£400 |
| Periodontal surgery | £75.30 (Band 2) | £800–£4,000+ |
| Specialist consultation | Included in band | £100–£400 |
Key point: If your gum disease requires multiple treatments across different bands, you only pay the highest band's fee on the NHS. All treatment within that course of care is covered.
What Is Gum Disease and Why Does Treatment Cost Vary?
Gum disease is a condition where bacteria in plaque cause inflammation of the gums. It progresses through distinct stages, each requiring different levels of treatment.
Gingivitis (Reversible)
The earliest stage involves gum inflammation without bone loss. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing.
Treatment required: Professional cleaning and improved home care Cost: £27.40 NHS (Band 1) or £89–£195 private
Periodontitis (Irreversible)
When gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection affects the bone supporting your teeth.
"Approximately 50% of UK adults have some form of irreversible periodontitis." — GOV.UK Delivering Better Oral Health Toolkit
Treatment required: Deep cleaning, potentially surgery Cost: £75.30 NHS (Band 2) or £199–£4,000+ private
NHS Gum Disease Treatment Costs by Region
NHS dental charges vary across the UK's four nations. Here's what you'll pay in each region.
England
England uses a three-band charging system effective from 1 April 2025.
| Band | Cost | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Band 1 | £27.40 | Examination, X-rays, scale and polish, simple gum disease management |
| Band 2 | £75.30 | Everything in Band 1 plus extensive gum treatment, root planing, gingivectomy |
| Band 3 | £326.70 | Everything in Bands 1 and 2 plus crowns, bridges, dentures |
Important payment rules:
- If you need multiple treatments, you only pay the highest band
- Further treatment within 2 months in the same or lower band costs nothing extra
- Most gum disease treatment falls under Band 2
"Non-surgical treatment of periodontitis including root planing and deep scaling, and surgical treatment of periodontitis such as gingivectomy are charged within Band 2." — NHS England
Wales
Wales offers lower NHS charges than England.
| Band | Cost | Gum Disease Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Band 1 | £20.00 | Examination, preventive care, simple gum management |
| Band 2 | £60.00 | Periodontal treatment for gum disease |
| Band 3 | £260.00 | Complex procedures |
Upcoming change (April 2026): Wales is introducing a new system where patients pay 50% of treatment value, capped at £384.
Scotland
Scotland operates differently, using a percentage-based payment system rather than fixed bands.
- Patient payment: 80% of treatment costs
- Maximum charge: £384 per course of treatment
- Dental examinations: Free of charge
Free treatment groups in Scotland:
- All patients up to and including 25 years of age
- Pregnant women and nursing mothers
- Those receiving certain benefits
"Any costs over the £384 maximum are fully subsidised by the NHS." — NHS Highland
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland uses the same percentage system as Scotland.
- Patient payment: 80% of treatment costs
- Maximum charge: £384 per course of treatment
- Key difference from Scotland: Dental check-ups are not free
Quick Regional Comparison
| Region | Simple Gum Treatment | Complex Treatment | Maximum Charge | Free Exam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| England | £27.40 (Band 1) | £75.30 (Band 2) | £326.70 | No |
| Wales | £20.00 (Band 1) | £60.00 (Band 2) | £260.00 | No |
| Scotland | 80% of cost | 80% of cost | £384 | Yes |
| Northern Ireland | 80% of cost | 80% of cost | £384 | No |
Private Gum Disease Treatment Costs
Private treatment offers more flexibility, shorter waiting times, and often more comprehensive care. Here's what you'll pay at each stage of gum disease.
Stage 1: Gingivitis Treatment (£89–£195)
For early-stage gum disease, treatment typically involves:
- Professional hygienist cleaning: £89–£119
- Annual preventive care (cleanings plus check-ups): £178–£208
At this stage, the disease is reversible with proper treatment and improved home care.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis Treatment (£199–£400)
When gum disease progresses beyond gingivitis, you'll need deep cleaning procedures:
- Scaling and root planing (per session): £199–£400
- Single course of treatment: £199–£400
Deep cleaning involves removing bacteria and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis Treatment (£400–£1,040)
More extensive disease requires multiple sessions:
- Full mouth deep cleaning: £400–£1,040
- May require 2–4 sessions depending on severity
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis Treatment (£1,000–£4,000+)
Severe cases may require surgical intervention:
- Flap surgery: £1,000–£3,000
- Gum grafts: £600–£1,200 per tooth
- Bone grafts: £800–£1,500
- Full mouth reconstruction: £7,000–£9,000+
Specialist Periodontist Fees
If you're referred to a specialist periodontist:
- Initial consultation: £100–£400
- Comprehensive screening with X-rays: £200–£400
- London specialists typically charge at the higher end of these ranges
The True Cost of Delaying Treatment
Early intervention is significantly cheaper than treating advanced disease. Here's how costs escalate over time.
| When You Act | Condition | Treatment Needed | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early (0–6 months) | Gingivitis | Professional cleaning | £85–£199 |
| Delayed (1–2 years) | Early periodontitis | Deep cleaning | £400–£1,040 |
| Very delayed (3+ years) | Advanced periodontitis | Surgery | £1,000–£4,000+ |
The Cost of Lost Teeth
If gum disease progresses to tooth loss, replacement costs are substantial:
- Single dental implant: £1,800–£4,200
- Losing three teeth (common outcome): £6,000–£13,500 for implant replacements
"Five years of ignoring early gum disease warning signs can result in losing three teeth and spending £6,000–£13,500 on implants to replace them." — Dentozen UK
NHS dental implants are only available in very limited circumstances (major trauma, cancer treatment, congenital conditions) and require 12–24 month waiting times. Patients who lose teeth due to gum disease typically cannot access NHS implants.
Who Qualifies for Free NHS Dental Treatment?
Significant portions of the UK population qualify for free NHS dental care.
Automatic Eligibility
You're entitled to free NHS dental treatment if you're:
- Under 18 years old
- Under 19 and in full-time education
- Pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months
- Receiving treatment in an NHS hospital from a hospital dentist
Benefit-Related Eligibility
You qualify if you receive:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
Universal Credit: Eligibility depends on your assessment period earnings:
- £435 or less: qualifies for free treatment
- £935 or less if your claim includes a child element or limited capability for work element
"It is your own responsibility to check that you're entitled before claiming free dental treatment. If you claim free treatment that you're not entitled to, you could have to pay a penalty charge of up to £100." — NHSBSA
NHS Low Income Scheme
If you're on a low income but don't receive qualifying benefits, you may still get help.
HC2 Certificate (Full Help): Covers all NHS dental charges if your income is at or below your weekly requirements.
HC3 Certificate (Partial Help): Provides limited help with dental costs based on your income.
Apply using form HC1, available from NHS hospitals, dentists, or online.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Gum Disease Treatment?
Most UK dental insurance policies cover gum disease treatment to varying degrees.
What's Typically Covered
- Routine cleanings and check-ups
- Scale and polish
- Deep cleaning (root planing)
- Basic periodontal treatment
What's Often Excluded or Limited
- Pre-existing conditions (gum disease present before policy start)
- Specialist periodontist referrals (may have sub-limits)
- Surgical treatments (may require authorisation)
- Dental implants (usually excluded)
Popular Provider Coverage
| Provider | Gum Disease Coverage | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Bupa | Included in restorative benefits | Up to £700 |
| AXA Health | Covered under periodontal treatment | Plan-dependent |
| Denplan | Full coverage at registered practice | N/A (capitation model) |
| Simplyhealth | Claim back towards costs | £50–£200 |
Important: Check policy terms for waiting periods (typically 1–6 months before claiming) and any exclusions for ongoing conditions.
How to Reduce Your Gum Disease Treatment Costs
1. Catch It Early
The single most effective way to reduce costs is early detection and treatment. A £27.40 NHS check-up could prevent thousands of pounds in future treatment.
2. Maintain Good Home Care
"Regular effective self-performed plaque removal offers the largest treatment benefit." — GOV.UK Delivering Better Oral Health
Daily brushing and interdental cleaning are free and can prevent gum disease from progressing.
3. Stop Smoking
Smoking significantly increases periodontitis risk and reduces treatment effectiveness. Quitting improves outcomes and reduces the likelihood of needing expensive repeat treatments.
4. Compare Prices
Private dental costs vary significantly by practice and location. London periodontists typically charge 20–40% more than practices in other regions.
5. Ask About Payment Plans
Many private practices offer 0% interest payment plans for expensive treatments, allowing you to spread costs over several months.
What Happens During Gum Disease Treatment?
Understanding what to expect can help you prepare for treatment.
Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE)
Your dentist will assess your gums using a probe, scoring each area from 0–4:
- Codes 0–2: Healthy or gingivitis (manageable with cleaning)
- Codes 3–4: Potential periodontitis (requires detailed assessment)
This examination is included in your NHS check-up at no extra cost.
Scale and Polish
For mild gum disease, your dentist or hygienist will:
- Remove hardened plaque (tartar) from above the gum line
- Polish teeth to remove surface stains
- Advise on home care techniques
Duration: 20–30 minutes Discomfort: Minimal
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
For periodontitis, treatment goes below the gum line:
- Local anaesthetic to numb the area
- Removal of bacteria and tartar from tooth roots
- Smoothing of root surfaces
- Usually completed in 2–4 sessions
Duration: 45–90 minutes per session Recovery: Minor sensitivity for a few days
Periodontal Surgery
For advanced cases, surgical options include:
- Flap surgery: Gums lifted to clean deep pockets, then stitched back
- Bone grafts: Replacing bone lost to disease
- Gum grafts: Covering exposed roots with tissue from elsewhere in your mouth
Duration: 1–2 hours Recovery: 1–2 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does gum disease treatment cost on the NHS UK?
NHS gum disease treatment in England costs £27.40 (Band 1) for simple cases involving scale and polish, or £75.30 (Band 2) for more complex treatment including deep cleaning and periodontal surgery. Wales charges less at £20 and £60 respectively. Scotland and Northern Ireland charge 80% of treatment costs, capped at £384.
Can you get gum disease treatment on the NHS?
Yes, gum disease treatment is available on the NHS throughout the UK. Simple treatment falls under Band 1 or 2 charges. However, NHS waiting times can be long, and availability varies by area. If you can't find an NHS dentist accepting new patients, you may need to consider private treatment.
How much does deep cleaning cost at the dentist UK?
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) costs £75.30 on the NHS in England under Band 2. Privately, expect to pay £199–£400 per session. Full mouth deep cleaning typically costs £400–£1,040 privately, potentially requiring 2–4 sessions depending on severity.
Is gum disease treatment covered by dental insurance?
Most dental insurance policies cover gum disease treatment, though often with limitations. Pre-existing conditions may be excluded, waiting periods typically apply (1–6 months), and there may be annual limits on how much you can claim. Capitation plans like Denplan usually cover all necessary treatment at your registered practice.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on severity. Gingivitis can often be resolved in 1–2 appointments over 2–4 weeks. Periodontitis typically requires 2–4 deep cleaning sessions over 4–8 weeks, followed by a review appointment. Surgical treatment adds additional time for healing and follow-up care.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis (early gum disease) is fully reversible with proper treatment and good home care. Periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed to prevent further bone and tooth loss. Ongoing maintenance, including regular professional cleanings and excellent home care, is essential for long-term control.
What is the cheapest way to treat gum disease?
The cheapest approach is prevention through daily brushing and interdental cleaning (free). If treatment is needed, NHS care offers the most affordable option at £27.40–£75.30 in England. Catching gum disease early significantly reduces costs compared to treating advanced disease.
Do I need to see a periodontist for gum disease?
Not always. General dentists can treat most cases of gum disease. Referral to a specialist periodontist is typically recommended for advanced periodontitis, cases not responding to initial treatment, or when surgical intervention is needed. Your dentist will advise if specialist care is appropriate.
When to Seek Treatment
Don't delay seeking treatment if you notice:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
Early treatment is always more effective and less expensive than waiting until the disease advances.
Find a Dentist for Gum Disease Treatment
Whether you're looking for NHS or private care, finding the right dentist is the first step toward healthier gums. Use our search to find dental practices near you that offer periodontal treatment, compare options, and book an appointment.
Ready to take action? Early intervention can save your teeth and thousands of pounds in future treatment costs. Don't wait until gum disease becomes a serious problem.
