Healthy gums support the teeth and help protect the underlying bone. Bleeding, swelling, tenderness, recession or persistent bad breath may signal a gum concern, but an examination is needed to identify the cause and recommend appropriate care.
Ottawa Smiles Family Dental provides gum assessment and non-surgical periodontal care within general dentistry. When a condition requires advanced periodontal procedures or care beyond our scope, we will discuss referral to an appropriate dental specialist.
Signs that should be assessed
- gums that bleed during brushing or flossing;
- red, swollen or tender gums;
- persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste;
- gum recession or teeth that appear longer;
- new spaces, tooth movement or looseness;
- discomfort when chewing; or
- pus, drainage or swelling around a tooth.
Some gum disease can progress with little pain. Regular examinations allow the dental team to assess the gums, plaque and tartar levels, recession, tooth mobility and other risk factors.
Gingivitis and periodontitis
Gingivitis is inflammation limited to the gums and may improve when plaque and tartar are controlled. Periodontitis involves deeper supporting tissues and can lead to attachment and bone loss. The diagnosis and severity cannot be determined from symptoms alone.
Smoking, diabetes, dry mouth, some medications, genetics and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene can affect gum health. Medical conditions should be managed with the appropriate health professional; dental treatment does not replace medical care.
Non-surgical gum care
Recommendations depend on the examination. They may include:
- individualized brushing and interdental-cleaning instruction;
- professional dental cleaning;
- scaling and root planing when indicated;
- management of plaque-retentive factors;
- review of tobacco use, dry mouth or other risk factors; and
- periodic reassessment and maintenance based on individual needs.
Treatment cannot guarantee that every affected tooth will be retained. Outcomes depend on the extent of disease, health factors, home care, smoking, attendance and response to treatment.
When a specialist referral may be appropriate
Advanced bone loss, complex gum recession, possible grafting, regenerative procedures, difficult diagnosis or a poor response to initial treatment may require assessment by a periodontist. We do not present our general dentists as specialists. If referral is recommended, the reason and available next steps will be explained.
CDCP and gum care
Certain examinations, preventive services and periodontal treatments may be eligible under the Canadian Dental Care Plan when plan rules are met. Frequency limits, co-payments, additional charges or preauthorization requirements may apply. Review our 2026 CDCP guide and ask about expected costs before treatment.
Request a gum assessment in Ottawa
Call 613-520-0222 or request an appointment online. Severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, trouble breathing or another medical emergency requires urgent assistance.