Gum Disease: What It Is and How We Can Help

Gum disease is an infection that affects your gums and the tissues supporting your teeth. It often begins as gingivitis, a common condition that’s easy to treat when caught early. You might notice red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss. If ignored, it can develop into periodontitis — a more severe form that damages the bone and tissues holding your teeth in place, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Signs to watch for include:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing 
• Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums 
• Receding gums, making teeth appear longer 
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth 
• Loose or shifting teeth

If you notice any of these signs, don’t delay — schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

What causes gum disease?

Plaque is the main culprit — that sticky film of bacteria constantly forming on your teeth. Without proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally. Other factors that can contribute include smoking, hormonal changes, certain medications, genetics, and underlying health conditions like diabetes.

How We Help at City Centre Smiles: Treatment Options for Gum Disease



At City Centre Smiles, we offer a comprehensive range of advanced treatments tailored to your needs, helping you restore and maintain healthy gums:

Deep Cleanings (Scaling and Root Planing)

This is often the first step in treating gum disease. We carefully remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, then smooth the roots of your teeth to promote reattachment of gums and reduce inflammation. It’s a thorough cleaning that can significantly improve gum health, especially in early stages. If teeth or gums are sensitive a numbing cream can be used without the need of a needle. This approach ensures a soothing, pain-free experience, making dental visits more comfortable and anxiety free for patients.

Laser Therapy

Using gentle laser technology, we target and remove infected tissue with minimal discomfort. Laser treatments promote faster healing, reduce bleeding and swelling, and make the process more comfortable.

Gum Grafting

If your gums have receded significantly, we can perform gum grafts to restore tissue and protect your teeth from further recession and sensitivity. This involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth or using donor tissue to rebuild your gum line.

Antimicrobial Treatments

We may prescribe special rinses or topical medications to help control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation.

Ongoing Maintenance and Education

Prevention is key. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized oral hygiene plan, including advice on brushing, flossing, and lifestyle habits. Regular professional cleanings—every 3 to 6 months—are essential to keep bacteria at bay and prevent recurrence.

Tips to Keep Your Gums Healthy

• Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste 
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and along the gum line 
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash if recommended by your dentist 
• Avoid tobacco products 
• Manage health conditions such as diabetes 
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals 
• Visit us regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings

Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial. Gum disease can often be halted or reversed in its early stages. Ignoring the signs, however, can lead to irreversible damage and tooth loss.

If you’re concerned about your gum health or want to learn more about our treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Call us today at 416-296-0400 ext. 3 or email us at info@citycentresmiles.com to schedule your appointment.

And remember — follow us, tag us, like, and share your smile on Instagram @citycentresmiles. Let’s work together to keep your gums healthy and your smile shining bright at City Centre Smiles.