Gum Health and Nonsurgical Periodontal Care
Healthy gums support a healthy smile. Maple Ridge Dental Centre provides gum assessments, nonsurgical periodontal treatment and ongoing maintenance based on each patient’s needs.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Gum recession or sensitive tooth roots
- Loose teeth or changes in the way your teeth fit together
Gum disease can sometimes progress with few noticeable symptoms, so regular examinations are important.
Periodontal Assessment
Your dental team examines the gums, measures the spaces around the teeth, reviews appropriate X-rays and considers factors that can affect gum health. The findings help determine the type and frequency of care recommended.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, sometimes called deep cleaning, removes plaque and hardened deposits from below the gumline and smooths affected root surfaces. Local anesthetic may be used for comfort, and treatment may be completed over more than one visit.
Ongoing Maintenance and Referral
Periodontal maintenance helps manage gum disease after active treatment. The recommended interval depends on your response to treatment and risk factors. Advanced or complex cases may be referred to a periodontist for specialized care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is periodontal treatment different from a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning focuses mainly on deposits above and just below the gumline. Periodontal treatment addresses deeper areas affected by gum disease and is planned according to clinical findings.
Can gum disease be cured?
Early gingivitis can often be reversed with effective home care and professional treatment. Periodontitis involves loss of supporting tissues and usually requires ongoing management.
Schedule a Gum Health Assessment
If you notice bleeding, swelling, recession or other changes in your gums, request an appointment or call 604-463-2536.