Hello everyone, I’m Dr. Richa Bhatnagar from Jacksonport Dental in NE Calgary. One of the most common oral health concerns I see in my practice is gum disease—also known as periodontal disease. It’s often overlooked because it starts silently, but if left untreated, it can affect not just your smile, but your overall health.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the early signs, how to prevent gum disease, and the treatments available if it develops. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge to keep your gums healthy for life.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It usually starts with plaque buildup—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth daily. If not removed with proper brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to inflammation.
There are two main stages:
- Gingivitis – the early stage, where gums are red, swollen, and may bleed.
- Periodontitis – the advanced stage, where the infection damages bone and tissues, possibly leading to tooth loss.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you notice any of the following, it may be time to schedule a dental visit:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Receding gums or teeth looking “longer”
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain while chewing
👉 Many patients in Cityscape, Skyview, Cornerstone, and nearby NE Calgary communities tell me they ignored bleeding gums for months thinking it was “normal.” Please know—it’s not normal. Early detection is key!
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable with consistent care. Here are my top tips:
1. Practice Strong Daily Habits
- Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to clean between teeth.
- Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash.
2. Stay on Top of Dental Visits
- Schedule a professional cleaning and checkup every 6 months.
- At Jacksonport Dental, we use advanced tools to remove tartar and check gum health early.
3. Watch Lifestyle Factors
- Avoid smoking—it increases gum disease risk dramatically.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C and calcium.
- Manage systemic conditions like diabetes, which can affect gum health.
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
If gum disease is detected, treatment depends on how advanced it is:
- Gingivitis can often be reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care.
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) helps remove tartar below the gumline.
- In advanced cases, gum surgery or laser therapy may be recommended.
At Jacksonport Dental, I’ve seen many patients regain gum health and confidence after timely treatment. For example, a patient from Martindale came in with bleeding gums and loosened teeth. With deep cleaning and follow-up care, we were able to stop the disease progression and save her smile.
Why Gum Health Matters Beyond the Mouth
Research has linked gum disease to serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications. Taking care of your gums isn’t just about oral health—it’s about your total well-being.
Final Thoughts
Your gums are the foundation of your smile. By paying attention to the early warning signs and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep gum disease at bay.
If you’re in Cityscape, Redstone, Saddleridge, or anywhere in NE Calgary, I’d love to help you protect your gum health. Don’t wait until symptoms worsen—book your checkup at Jacksonport Dental today.
