Periodontal Treatment
When gum disease moves beyond the surface, a regular cleaning is no longer enough. Periodontal treatment targets the infection below the gumline, helping to protect the bone and tissue that keep your teeth in place. At Edgemont Dental in Southwest Edmonton, we explain each step clearly and tailor care to your gum health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also called periodontitis, develops when bacteria and hardened plaque (tartar) collect below the gumline. The gums can pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where more bacteria collect. Over time, the infection can damage the supporting bone, and teeth may loosen. Because it often develops without pain, many people do not realize they have it until it is advanced.
Signs You May Need Periodontal Treatment
- Gums that bleed easily, are swollen or look dark red
- Gums that have pulled back, making teeth look longer
- Pockets or gaps forming between teeth and gums
- Ongoing bad breath or a bad taste
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
Deep Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing
Deep cleaning is a common first step in treating gum infection. It usually involves two parts.
Scaling
Plaque and tartar are carefully removed from your teeth, including below the gumline where regular cleaning cannot reach.
Root planing
The root surfaces are smoothed so the gums can heal and reattach more easily, and so bacteria have fewer places to collect.
Where it helps, antimicrobial therapy may be added to support healing. Your dentist will explain whether deep cleaning is right for you, and whether you may need numbing for comfort. We also offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation for anxious patients, so please let us know when you book.
Before Your Visit
- Eat normally and brush and floss as usual before your appointment.
- Tell us about your health history, medications and any anxiety so we can plan your comfort, including numbing or sedation options.
- Bring your insurance details. We direct bill most major providers and can verify coverage in advance.
After Your Treatment
- Your gums may feel tender for a short time. Healing often takes around four to six weeks, and we check progress at a follow-up visit.
- If you were numbed, avoid hot drinks and chewing until the numbness wears off.
- Follow the brushing and flossing instructions we give you while your gums heal.
- Keep your maintenance visits, which are often scheduled every three to four months, to help keep gum disease under control.
- Call us if you notice swelling, ongoing bleeding or pain that is getting worse.
Why Treating Gum Disease Matters
Protect your teeth: Treating infection helps preserve the bone that holds your teeth in place.
Improve comfort and breath: Healthier gums are less likely to bleed, swell or cause odour.
Safeguard other dental work: Healthy gums support fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures and implants.
Avoid bigger problems later: Early treatment is usually simpler than treating advanced gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is deep cleaning painful?
Your comfort is a priority. Your dentist will discuss numbing options with you, and your gums may feel tender for a day or two afterward.
How is periodontal treatment different from a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning removes buildup above the gumline and just below it. Periodontal treatment goes deeper, removing bacteria and tartar from below the gumline and around the roots.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on how much of your mouth is affected. Your dentist will outline your plan after your exam and x-rays.
Will my insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Coverage varies by plan. We direct bill most major insurance providers, and our front desk can verify your coverage before your appointment.
What happens after treatment is finished?
You return for a follow-up so we can check how your gums are healing, then continue with regular maintenance visits, often every three to four months, to keep gum disease under control.
Book Periodontal Care in Edmonton
Call (780) 761-7070 or book online to schedule an assessment at 20036 Lessard Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 0T9. We are welcoming new patients.