Periodontal (Gum Disease) Treatment

• Bleeding when you brush or floss
• Swollen, red or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
• Gums that are pulling away from the teeth
• Loose teeth or a change in your bite

Not sure whether you have gum disease? Early gingivitis can be painless, which is why regular check-ups matter.

• Professional cleaning and better home care for early gingivitis, which is fully reversible.
• Scaling and root planing, a deep clean below the gumline for more established gum disease.
• Medication where your dentist recommends it to help control infection.
• Specialist referral when your case needs more advanced care.
• Ongoing maintenance to keep your gums stable after treatment.

More advanced periodontitis can be managed and stabilised, though it cannot be fully reversed.

1. 01Gum exam. Your dentist checks your gums, measures how they sit around your teeth and reviews your X-rays.
2. 02Diagnosis and plan. You receive a clear explanation and a plan made for you.
3. 03Treatment. This may include a deep cleaning, which can be done over more than one visit.
4. 04Home care coaching. We show you how to clean at home in a way that protects your gums.
5. 05Follow-up. We check your healing and set a maintenance schedule.

We numb the area thoroughly before treatment. Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are available for anxious patients or complex periodontal work. Ask us what is right for you.

• Tell us about any symptoms and when they started.
• Share your health history and medications, and tell us if you have diabetes or smoke, since both affect gum health.
• Bring your insurance card, or both cards if you have two plans.
• Keep brushing and flossing gently as usual. Do not stop even if your gums bleed.

• Mild tenderness for a day or two is common and resolves on its own.
• Gums can feel sore, and teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold. Eat softer foods if you need to.
• Rinse gently with warm salt water if your dentist suggests it.
• Keep brushing softly twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily.
• Follow the aftercare instructions we give you, and attend your follow-up visits.
• Call us if you have swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding that does not settle.

Periodontal treatment is covered under many insurance plans, and we handle the paperwork, including direct billing to NIHB and insurance. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers periodontal treatment subject to plan guidelines. We follow the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide and tell you your portion before treatment.