Gum treatment (periodontics) covered by the CDCP
Your gums are the foundation of your teeth. When they bleed, recede, or get infected, periodontal treatment protects your teeth in the long run. Done as part of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), with direct billing to the plan.
Book an appointmentSigns of gum trouble to watch for
Gum disease is often painless at first. Spotting the signs early allows for simpler, more effective treatment.
Bleeding
The gums bleed when brushing or flossing.
Redness and swelling
The gums are red, tender, or swollen.
Bad breath
Persistent bad breath despite good hygiene.
Recession
The teeth look longer as the roots become exposed.
Sensitivity
Discomfort with heat, cold, or contact near the gumline.
Mobility
One or more teeth move slightly.
Understanding how it progresses
Periodontal disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is caught, the simpler the treatment.
Gingivitis
Reversible inflammation of the gums. A deep cleaning and good hygiene are often enough to fully restore them.
Early periodontitis
The inflammation reaches the supporting tissue. A cleaning below the gumline (root planing) is required.
Advanced periodontitis
The supporting bone is affected. Close follow-up and targeted care aim to stabilize the situation.
The care we offer
Depending on the state of your gums, treatment is tailored to stop the inflammation and preserve your teeth.
Deep scaling
Removal of tartar above and at the gumline.
Root planing
Cleaning below the gumline to smooth the root and remove bacteria.
Hygiene advice
Brushing and flossing techniques suited to your situation.
Maintenance follow-up
Regular appointments to keep the gums healthy.
CDCP coverage
Non-surgical gum care (cleaning below the gumline, root planing, gum disease management) is among the services eligible under the Canadian Dental Care Plan, with frequency limits. Some procedures and surgical treatments, or care beyond the limits, require preauthorization and may not be covered. The clinic bills the plan directly; depending on your income bracket, an official co-payment may apply. You are given an estimate before any non-covered care.
Gingivitis or periodontitis
Two stages, two approaches. This table sums up the differences to better understand your care plan.
| Criteria | Gingivitis | Periodontitis |
|---|---|---|
| Tissues affected | Gums only | Gums and supporting bone |
| Reversibility | Reversible | Manageable, not reversible |
| Main treatment | Deep cleaning | Root planing and follow-up |
| Follow-up | Regular hygiene | Close periodontal maintenance |
| Coverage | CDCP, direct billing | CDCP, direct billing |
Are your gums bleeding or receding?
An assessment identifies the stage and puts the right treatment in place, early.
Book an appointmentFrequently asked questions
Why are my gums bleeding?
Is gum disease reversible?
Is periodontal treatment covered by the CDCP?
Is root planing painful?
How often is maintenance needed?
See also: CDCP cleaning and scaling, CDCP dental exam and services covered by the plan.