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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Gum Disease Treatment in Long Point
Bleeding, puffy or receding gums can be early signs of gum disease. Long Point patients can have gum health measured in Port Dover and discuss a treatment plan.
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Healthy gums hold your teeth in place.
Gum disease begins as gingivitis, with red, swollen or bleeding gums, and can progress to periodontitis, where the bone and tissues supporting teeth break down. It is often painless until advanced, which is why many people do not notice until teeth feel loose or gums recede. Early treatment can reverse gingivitis and slow or stabilize periodontitis.
Long Point patients concerned about bleeding or receding gums can have them assessed at our Port Dover office. The team will measure gum health and explain findings and options clearly.
Warning signs
Bleeding is not normal, even if it is common.
Early symptoms
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, look red or puffy, feel tender or produce persistent bad breath may indicate gingivitis. These signs are often reversible with improved cleaning and professional care. Do not stop flossing because of bleeding; instead, have it checked.
Later signs
Receding gums, teeth that look longer, new spaces between teeth, loose teeth, pus around the gums or a change in bite suggest more advanced disease. Smoking can mask bleeding, so smokers may have disease without obvious symptoms. Regular checkups help catch these changes.
Assessment
Measurements show what the eye cannot.
Pocket measurements and X-rays
The hygienist or dentist gently measures the space between gums and teeth, called pocket depth, at several points around each tooth. Deeper pockets suggest attachment loss. X-rays reveal bone levels. These measurements create a baseline to compare against after treatment.
Risk factors
Smoking, diabetes, certain medications, stress, genetics and pregnancy can affect gum health. Share your health history openly. Managing these factors alongside dental care often improves results. The dentist may suggest coordinating with your physician if a medical condition is involved.
Treatment
Treatment removes the bacteria driving inflammation.
Deep cleaning
Scaling and root planing, sometimes called deep cleaning, removes tartar and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces so gums can reattach. Freezing may be used. It is often done over more than one appointment. Improved home care is essential for lasting results.
Further treatment and referral
If pockets remain deep after initial treatment, further care or referral to a periodontist may be recommended. Antimicrobial treatments may be used in some cases. The dentist will explain the plan and what to expect at re-evaluation.
Maintenance
Gum disease needs ongoing management.
Home care routine
Brush twice daily along the gumline and clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes. Ask the hygienist which tools suit your spacing. Quitting smoking significantly improves gum health. Expect some sensitivity after deep cleaning, which usually improves.
Ongoing professional visits
Periodontal maintenance visits, often more frequent than standard cleanings, help keep pockets stable. Missing these can allow disease to return. If your time at Long Point is seasonal, plan visits so the recommended interval is maintained throughout the year.
Planning your appointment
Checking your gums from Long Point
Call our Port Dover office if your gums bleed, look swollen or seem to be receding. The team can arrange an assessment with time for gum measurements and discussion.
Bring a medication list and mention conditions like diabetes or pregnancy, which can influence gum health and treatment planning.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Gum disease questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis can often be reversed with good home care and professional cleaning. Periodontitis is usually managed rather than cured, with treatment aimed at stopping progression and keeping it stable over time.
Does deep cleaning hurt?
Freezing is often used, so the procedure is usually comfortable. Some tenderness or sensitivity afterward is common and typically improves within days. Report any lasting discomfort to the office.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Research links gum disease with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Managing gum health is part of overall wellbeing. Share your medical history so care can be coordinated where appropriate.
Why do my gums bleed if I brush every day?
Brushing may miss plaque along the gumline or between teeth. Tartar can also irritate gums. An assessment can identify problem areas and adjust your technique to help bleeding settle.
Will I lose my teeth?
Untreated advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss, but treatment and maintenance often help preserve teeth. Early diagnosis improves the outlook considerably, so do not delay an assessment.
Keeping gums healthy after treatment
General Dentistry →Periodontal Maintenance →
After gum disease treatment, maintenance visits help keep pockets stable. Long Point patients can plan periodontal care in Port Dover around a seasonal calendar.
Dental Hygiene and Preventive Care →
Prevention keeps more teeth healthy for longer. Long Point patients can work with our Port Dover hygiene team on cleanings, home routines and personal risk.