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Bleeding, swollen or receding gums can be early signs of periodontal disease. Wilsonville patients can learn about diagnosis and deep cleaning at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleHealthy gums support healthy teeth
Gum disease begins when plaque along the gumline causes inflammation, known as gingivitis. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis, where the tissues and bone supporting the teeth are damaged. Early signs such as bleeding when brushing are easy to overlook, and advanced disease can lead to loose teeth. Treatment aims to control the infection and protect what remains.
Wilsonville patients who notice bleeding, tender or receding gums can book an assessment at our Port Dover office. Gum treatment often involves more than one visit and ongoing maintenance, so ask about the expected schedule. Share medical conditions such as diabetes, which can affect gum health.

Warning signs
Red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing and persistent bad breath are common early signs. These changes may not be painful, which is why many people do not seek help. Gingivitis can often improve with professional cleaning and better daily care, so acting early is worthwhile.
Gums that pull away from teeth, longer-looking teeth, pus between teeth and gums, a change in how teeth fit together and loose or shifting teeth suggest more advanced disease. These signs mean the supporting bone may be affected. Book an examination promptly if you notice any of them.
Diagnosis
The hygienist or dentist measures the space between gums and teeth with a small probe. Healthy pockets are shallow, while deeper pockets suggest disease. Bleeding, recession and tooth mobility are recorded. X-rays show bone levels. These measurements create a baseline for tracking progress after treatment.
Smoking, diabetes, certain medications, stress, pregnancy and genetics can influence gum disease. The dentist will discuss which factors apply to you. Managing these, such as improving blood sugar control or quitting smoking, can make a meaningful difference to how well treatment works.
Treatment
Scaling and root planing, often called deep cleaning, removes tartar and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces so gums can reattach. It is usually done under local anaesthetic, sometimes over more than one appointment. Some tenderness afterward is normal and usually settles within days.
After deep cleaning, the dentist re-evaluates the gums to see how they have responded. If pockets remain deep, further treatment or referral to a periodontist may be discussed. Antimicrobial products may be suggested in some cases. Your dentist will explain the options and their expected benefits.
Maintenance
Brush twice daily with a soft brush, angled toward the gumline, and clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes. The hygienist can recommend tools suited to the spaces between your teeth. Consistent home care is essential, as plaque begins to rebuild within days.
Periodontal maintenance visits are often scheduled more frequently than routine cleanings. These visits allow the team to remove tartar, measure pockets and catch any return of disease early. Keeping up with this schedule is one of the most effective ways to maintain your results.
Planning your appointment
Book an assessment at our Port Dover office and mention any bleeding, tenderness or loose teeth. Ask how many appointments deep cleaning may require so you can plan your trips.
Bring a list of medications and let the team know about diabetes, smoking or other conditions that may affect your gums.
Before you book
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Gingivitis can often be reversed with professional cleaning and good home care. Periodontitis involves bone loss that usually cannot be fully reversed, but treatment can help control it and prevent further damage.
Local anaesthetic is usually used to keep you comfortable. Afterward, gums may be tender or sensitive for a few days. Contact the office if discomfort is severe or persistent.
Bleeding is often a sign of inflammation. It may improve with regular cleaning, but persistent bleeding should be examined to check for gum disease.
Research has found links between gum disease and conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Managing gum health is part of overall wellbeing. Discuss concerns with your dentist and doctor.
Not necessarily. Treatment and ongoing maintenance can help keep many teeth stable. Advanced disease may lead to tooth loss, which is why early treatment is encouraged.
After gum disease treatment, regular maintenance visits help keep it under control. Wilsonville patients can plan periodontal care at our Port Dover dental office.
Prevention combines professional cleanings, fluoride and daily habits. Wilsonville patients can build a personal prevention routine with our Port Dover hygiene team.
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