Gum Disease in Stoney Creek & Hamilton: Signs, Causes & How We Treat It
Gum disease is the most common dental condition in Canada — and one of the most underdiagnosed. According to the Canadian Dental Association (link: https://www.cda-adc.ca/), nearly 75 percent of Canadians will experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime. Yet because it often develops slowly and painlessly in its early stages, many people do not realise they have it until significant damage has already occurred. At Fletcher Dental Centre on Rymal Road East in Stoney Creek, our experienced team diagnoses, treats, and helps patients manage gum disease at every stage — from early gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease — also called periodontal disease — is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth daily. When plaque is not thoroughly removed through brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings, it hardens into tartar (calculus) which can only be removed by a dental professional. The bacteria in plaque and tartar irritate the gum tissue, causing inflammation that — if untreated — spreads below the gumline and eventually destroys the bone that holds your teeth in place.
Gum disease progresses in two main stages:
Gingivitis: The earliest and most reversible stage. The gums are red, swollen, and bleed easily during brushing or flossing. There is no bone loss at this stage, and with proper professional treatment and improved home care, gingivitis is fully reversible.
Periodontitis: The advanced stage in which infection has spread below the gumline, destroying bone and connective tissue. Teeth may become loose or shift position. Periodontitis is not reversible — the bone that is lost does not grow back — but it can be managed effectively with professional treatment to stop the progression.
Signs of Gum Disease You Should Not Ignore
Many people are unaware they have gum disease because it often causes little or no pain in the early stages. Watch for these warning signs and contact our Stoney Creek clinic if you notice them:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss — this is not normal, even if it happens every day
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from your teeth, making teeth look longer
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that does not go away
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
What Causes Gum Disease?
The primary cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque that is not removed consistently. However, several factors increase susceptibility:
- Inconsistent or inadequate brushing and flossing
- Skipping professional dental cleanings and check-ups
- Smoking or tobacco use — one of the strongest risk factors
- Diabetes — people with diabetes are significantly more susceptible to gum infection
- Certain medications that cause dry mouth or gum overgrowth
- Hormonal changes — pregnancy, menopause, and puberty all affect gum health
- Genetic predisposition — some patients are simply more susceptible to gum disease regardless of their hygiene habits
Gum Disease Treatment at Fletcher Dental Centre
The good news is that gum disease is treatable at every stage. At Fletcher Dental Centre, our approach to gum disease treatment depends on how advanced the condition is:
Gingivitis treatment: Professional dental cleaning to remove all plaque and tartar, combined with improved home care guidance. Most patients see significant improvement within a few weeks.
Scaling and root planing: For early to moderate periodontitis, a deep cleaning procedure performed under local anaesthetic. The hygienist cleans below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to remove bacteria and prevent reattachment of plaque.
Ongoing periodontal maintenance: Patients with a history of gum disease typically benefit from more frequent professional cleanings — every three to four months — to maintain the health achieved through treatment and prevent recurrence.
Our family dentistry (link: https://www.fletcherdentalcentre.ca/service/family-dentistry) team monitors your gum health at every check-up and will recommend the appropriate level of care based on your individual situation. If advanced gum disease has led to tooth loss, our dental implants (link: https://www.fletcherdentalcentre.ca/service/dental-implants) and dentures (link: https://www.fletcherdentalcentre.ca/service/dentures) services offer options for restoring your smile.
Book a Gum Disease Assessment in Stoney Creek or Hamilton
If you have noticed any signs of gum disease — or if you simply have not had a professional cleaning in over six months — book an appointment at Fletcher Dental Centre. The sooner gum disease is identified and treated, the better the outcome for your long-term oral health. Call (905) 692-3003 or contact us online (link: https://www.fletcherdentalcentre.ca/contact-us). We serve patients throughout Stoney Creek, Hannon, Binbrook, Winona, Mount Hope, and the greater Hamilton area.
Fletcher Dental Centre | 1962 Rymal Road E, Hamilton, ON | (905) 692-3003