Gum Disease Treatment
in Calgary
Stop gum disease early and protect the teeth, gums and bone that support your smile.
About Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. Left untreated, it can damage the gums and the bone that holds your teeth in place, and it is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The good news is that gum disease is treatable, and the earlier it is found, the simpler the treatment.
If you are looking for gum disease treatment in SW Calgary, our team at West 17th Avenue Dental Care provides assessment and treatment as part of our general dentistry services. We explain what is happening in your mouth in plain language and build a plan to bring your gums back to health.
Signs of Gum Disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
- Red, swollen or tender gums.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste.
- Gums that pull away from the teeth, making teeth look longer.
- Loose teeth or changes in how your teeth fit together.
- Pus between the teeth and gums.
Early gum disease often causes little or no pain, so regular Dental Checkups are the best way to catch it.
Stages of Gum Disease
- Gingivitis: the earliest stage, with red, swollen gums that bleed easily. It is usually reversible with a professional cleaning and good home care. See Teeth Cleanings.
- Periodontitis: the infection spreads below the gumline, and the bone supporting your teeth begins to break down. It needs deeper treatment to stop it from progressing.
- Advanced periodontitis: significant bone loss can lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.
Our Gum Disease Treatment
The right treatment depends on how far the disease has progressed. After a gum exam and X-rays, your dentist may recommend:
- A professional cleaning for early gum inflammation.
- Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces so gums can reattach.
- A personalized maintenance program, with follow-up visits to keep the disease from returning.
- Guidance on home care, including brushing, flossing and tools that suit your mouth.
Before Your Gum Treatment
- Tell us about your health history, medications and allergies. Conditions such as diabetes, and habits such as smoking, affect your gums, so please mention them.
- Brush and floss as normal before your visit, and be gentle. Do not skip cleaning because your gums bleed.
- Have a light meal beforehand, since your mouth may be numb afterwards.
- Our team will talk with you about numbing and comfort options before treatment starts. If you are very nervous, ask about Sedation Dentistry.
- Plan time for treatment. Deep cleaning is sometimes done in more than one visit, one section of the mouth at a time.
Aftercare and Keeping Your Gums Healthy
- Wait until the numbness wears off before eating, and choose soft foods for the first day if your gums are sore.
- Expect some tenderness, mild bleeding or tooth sensitivity for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers taken as directed on the label usually help.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water if your dentist advises it.
- Keep brushing twice a day with a soft toothbrush and clean between your teeth daily.
- Return for the follow-up and maintenance visits we recommend. They are what stop gum disease from coming back.
- Stop smoking, since it greatly raises the risk of gum disease.
- If you have braces or implants, ask about Air Polishing Biofilm Management for gentle cleaning.
- Call us if you have severe pain, swelling or bleeding that does not stop.
Why Choose West 17th Avenue Dental Care
- More than 30 years serving Calgary families, with a clinic on 17th Avenue SW.
- A 4.9 Google rating from more than 200 reviews.
- A multilingual team that speaks English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.
- Direct billing to most major insurance plans and the Canadian Dental Care Plan accepted.
- Open six days a week, with a free parking lot north of the building, accessible from 15th Street SW.
Cost of Gum Disease Treatment
The cost depends on the stage of your gum disease and the number of visits needed. Many insurance plans cover part of the cost, and we bill most major plans directly. We explain the cost before treatment begins and offer 0% interest financing. You can read more in our Financial Options section or call (403) 244-1124 for an estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of gum disease?
The first signs are usually red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss, along with bad breath. Because early gum disease is often painless, a regular dental exam is the best way to find it.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis, the earliest stage, can usually be reversed with a professional cleaning and good home care. Once gum disease has damaged the bone, the damage cannot be undone, but treatment can stop it from getting worse.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots. It helps the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
We numb the area when needed so you stay comfortable, and you may notice some tenderness for a day or two afterwards. If you feel nervous, ask about Sedation Dentistry.
How much does gum disease treatment cost in Calgary?
The cost depends on how advanced the disease is. Call (403) 244-1124 and we will give you an estimate after your exam. We bill most major insurance plans directly and offer 0% interest financing.
Book Your Appointment
Ready for a Healthier Smile? New patients welcome, direct billing and 0% financing available. Call us at (403) 244-1124 or book online.