Gum Disease Treatment
North York

What are the stages of gum disease — and can it be reversed?

The earliest stage, gingivitis, causes red, bleeding gums but no bone loss — and it is fully reversible with professional cleaning and better home care. If left untreated it becomes periodontitis, where gum and bone are permanently lost; this stage can be managed and halted, but lost bone does not grow back on its own. That is why bleeding gums should never be ignored — early treatment is simpler and far more effective.

What is deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)?

Deep cleaning goes below the gumline, where regular cleanings cannot reach. We numb the area, then remove hardened tartar and bacteria from the tooth roots and smooth the root surfaces so gums can reattach. It is the standard first treatment for periodontitis and is usually done one side of the mouth at a time over two visits.

Will gum disease treatment hurt? Will my gums bleed afterward?

Treatment is done with local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure — some soreness for a day or two afterward is normal. Mild bleeding when you brush in the first days after deep cleaning is common as inflamed tissue heals. If bleeding is heavy or does not settle within a week, call Vita Dentistry at (647) 276-0076 so we can check on you.

Who is at higher risk for gum disease?

Smokers and people with diabetes are at significantly higher risk, and their gum disease also tends to progress faster and respond more slowly to treatment. Genetics, certain medications that dry the mouth, and skipping regular cleanings also raise risk. If you are in a higher-risk group, we may recommend more frequent maintenance visits to keep things stable.

How do I know if I need gum treatment or just a regular cleaning?

That is decided by measurements, not guesswork: we probe the pockets between your gums and teeth and take X-rays to check bone levels. Pockets of 4mm or deeper with bleeding, or visible bone loss, point toward gum treatment rather than a routine cleaning. At your evaluation in our North York office, we will show you your readings and explain exactly what they mean.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover gum disease treatment?

CDCP covers certain periodontal treatments — such as scaling — for eligible patients, based on an eligibility assessment and the CDCP fee guide; coverage is never automatic. Vita Dentistry accepts CDCP patients. Contact us before treatment and we will help you verify what your plan is likely to cover.