F A Q S

F R E Q U E N T L Y

View these FAQs as a pdf by clicking the image below.

A S K E D

Q U E S T I O N S

WHY HAVE I BEEN REFERRED?

Your dentist or hygienist has recommended a referral because of a gum issue, such as severe gum disease, gum recession, or a gummy smile.

Gum problems are very common — nearly half of adults will experience them at some point. Most can be managed by your own dentist, but more serious cases sometimes need advanced care.

I SEE MY DENTIST / HYGIENIST REGULARLY, WHY DO I NOW NEED TREATMENT?

Your dentist has been monitoring and maintaining your gum health; however they now recommend treatment from a dentist with extra experience in gum health.

WHY DO I HAVE THIS PROBLEM? HAVE I NOT LOOKED AFTER MY TEETH WELL?

Many factors can affect your gums, including lifestyle and genetics. This means gum problems are not always a reflection of how well you care for your teeth.

WHO HAVE I BEEN REFERRED TO SEE?

You have been referred to see Dr Fergus, who in addition to his dental degree, has completed a three-year Master’s degree in periodontology with distinction.

He treats patients with gum problems across Yorkshire and has a strong track record of improving gum health. Read more about Dr Fergus here.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT MY INITIAL APPOINTMENT?

At your first appointment, Dr Fergus will talk through your concerns and explain your current gum health and the treatment options available.

No invasive treatment will be carried out at this visit — the focus is on understanding your condition and how it can be improved.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TREATMENT I HAVE RECEIVED FROM MY OWN DENTIST OR HYGIENIST, AND THE TREATMENT I WILL RECEIVE FROM DR FERGUS?

You may have already had treatment for your gums from your dentist or hygienist. This may have helped, but they are still concerned, which is why you have been referred.

Dr Fergus uses the latest research and advanced equipment to support your care. Depending on your needs, he may suggest medication or minor procedures, but these are not needed in every case.

Don't see your question on this page? Feel free to send Dr Fergus a message below and he will get back to you as soon as he can.

IS THE TREATMENT PAINFUL?

You will be comfortable at every appointment. Most treatments use local anaesthetic to numb sensitive areas.

Most patients don’t need pain relief afterwards, but if you do, a standard painkiller such as you would take for a headache is sufficient.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I DECIDE NOT TO HAVE TREATMENT?

If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to loss of the bone that supports your teeth and may cause premature tooth loss.

It can also increase the risk of other health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and dementia.

DO I NEED TO HAVE TREATMENT NOW, OR CAN IT BE DELAYED?

Gum disease gets worse over time if treatment is delayed.

This can increase the risk of tooth loss, make future treatment more costly, and reduce the chances of the best possible outcome.

HOW MUCH DOES THE TREATMENT COST?

The initial consultation costs £50 and lasts around 20 minutes. At this appointment, Dr Fergus will provide a provisional treatment plan with an outline of the expected costs.

Following a full periodontal assessment, this plan and the final cost may change slightly.

Treatment costs depend on the severity and complexity of your condition. Full details are available in the Treatment Costs document.

CAN THE COST BE SPREAD OVER A LONGER PERIOD?

Yes. Finance options can be accommodated, please speak to Dr Fergus directly about this.

V I E W

A S

P D F

C O N T A C T

F I N D

O U T

M O R E

I’ve created these FAQs to help you understand your periodontal referral.

They aim to answer any initial questions you may have before coming to see me.

Anything else you want to ask please feel free to do so in our first appointment, or reach out to me using the contact form further down the page.

I look forward to working with you to get your periodontitis stable, and returning you to the care of your regular dentist.

DR FERGUS MACHIN

DO I NEED TO CONTINUE TO SEE MY OWN DENTIST?

It’s important to continue seeing your own dentist for regular check-ups and any routine care you may need.

However, while you are receiving treatment with Dr Fergus, you do not need separate hygienist visits or additional gum treatment unless advised.

WHEN DO I NEED TO SEE MY OWN HYGIENIST AGAIN?

After completing your treatment, we recommend continuing to see Dr Fergus for periodontal maintenance for around one year.

At your one-year review, your gum health will be reassessed. If everything is stable, you may then return to your own hygienist for ongoing maintenance.

If you would prefer to continue your maintenance care with us long term, this can also be arranged

HOW FREQUENTLY DO I NEED TO BE SEEN FOR PERIODONTAL MAINTENANCE?

Once your treatment is complete, we usually recommend maintenance appointments every three months. The exact interval will be confirmed after your reassessment, based on what is most appropriate for you.

Maintenance is just as important as the treatment itself. Without regular maintenance, the risk of further problems — including tooth loss — increases significantly.