Catch it early, treat it gently, and keep your natural teeth
Gum disease is more common than most people realize — and the good news is that when it's caught early, it's very treatable. It starts when plaque and tartar build up along and beneath the gum line, causing inflammation. Left untreated, it can gradually affect the bone that supports your teeth. According to the Canadian Dental Association, gum disease affects a significant portion of adults at some point in their lives.
If you've noticed bleeding when you brush, or if it's been a while since your last visit, there's no need to feel embarrassed. Many of our patients come in with the same concern — and we're here to help, not judge. Our team provides thorough assessments and personalized treatment plans to protect your gums and help you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
Gum disease often develops gradually and can go unnoticed in its early stages. Many patients do not realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. Here are some of the most common signs to watch for:
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Redwater Dental Clinic at 780-942-4691 to schedule an assessment. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Gum disease progresses through two main stages, each with different characteristics and treatment approaches.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. At this point, the infection affects only the gums. You may notice redness, swelling, and bleeding when you brush or floss. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. No permanent damage to the bone or connective tissue has occurred yet.
Periodontitis develops when gingivitis is left untreated. The inflammation spreads below the gum line and begins to affect the bone and tissue that support your teeth. Spaces can form between the teeth and gums, allowing the condition to worsen. While periodontitis can't be fully reversed, it absolutely can be managed — and with the right treatment, many patients maintain healthy, stable teeth for years to come.
In advanced cases, teeth may become loose or need to be removed. This is why regular checkups and professional cleanings at Redwater Dental Clinic are so important. We can identify gum disease early, before it reaches the advanced stages.
At Redwater Dental Clinic, our approach to gum disease treatment depends on the severity of your condition. We always start with the least invasive option and work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Scaling and Root Planing: This is the most common non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the root surfaces of your teeth, making it harder for bacteria to reattach. This deep cleaning is typically done under local anesthesia and may be completed in one or two visits, depending on the extent of the disease.
Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, we may place localized antibiotics directly into the periodontal pockets after scaling and root planing. This helps eliminate remaining bacteria and promotes healing.
Ongoing Periodontal Maintenance: After your initial treatment, we will schedule more frequent cleaning appointments, typically every three to four months rather than the standard six months. These maintenance visits allow us to monitor your gum health, measure pocket depths, and remove any new buildup before it causes further damage.
Referral for Advanced Cases: If your gum disease has progressed significantly, we may refer you to a periodontist for specialized surgical treatment, such as flap surgery or bone grafting. Our team will coordinate your care and follow up to ensure the best outcome.
Gingivitis, the early stage, can be completely reversed with professional treatment and consistent oral hygiene at home. Once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and tissue cannot be undone. However, with proper treatment and maintenance, periodontitis can be controlled and further damage can be prevented.
The earlier you seek treatment, the better your outcome will be. Patients who maintain regular visits to Redwater Dental Clinic and follow their home care instructions have the best long-term results. Our team will work with you every step of the way to keep your gums healthy and your smile intact.
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing gum disease:
If you have concerns about your gum health, the best thing you can do is come in and let us take a look. Call us at 780-942-4691 or request an appointment online. The earlier we start, the simpler treatment tends to be.
Schedule a periodontal assessment today
