Are There Any Risks Associated with Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal therapy is an important treatment used to manage and control gum disease, protect oral health, and prevent long-term damage. If you’ve been advised to undergo periodontal therapy, you may be wondering whether there are any risks involved. The good news is that periodontal therapy is generally safe, especially when performed by a trained dental professional. At Woodfield Dental in London, Ontario, we take every step to ensure your treatment is comfortable, effective, and tailored to your oral health needs. However, like all medical and dental treatments, periodontal therapy does come with some minor and temporary side effects. Understanding what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared.

What Does Periodontal Therapy Involve?

Periodontal therapy may include one or more of the following treatments:
  • Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) 
  • Periodontal maintenance cleanings 
  • Antibacterial medications 
  • Gum regeneration or tissue procedures (in advanced cases) 
These treatments are designed to remove harmful bacteria, reduce inflammation, and allow your gums to reattach to the teeth.

Are There Risks Involved?

1. Temporary Gum Soreness or Swelling

After treatment, it’s normal for the gums to feel tender or swollen for a short period. This usually improves within a few days.

2. Tooth Sensitivity

As inflammation decreases and the gums begin to heal, some patients notice temporary sensitivity to cold or heat. Sensitivity typically fades as the gums adjust.

3. Minor Bleeding

Some light bleeding may occur during or after treatment, especially if the gums were severely inflamed beforehand. These effects are normal and temporary — and most patients find that their gums feel healthier and more comfortable as healing continues.

Rare Complications

Though uncommon, the following may occur, particularly in advanced gum disease cases:
  • Deep pockets that require additional treatment 
  • Slow healing due to smoking, vaping, or systemic health conditions 
  • Need for surgical intervention if disease returns or progresses 
We always discuss these possibilities before treatment and provide steps to support healthier healing.

How Woodfield Dental Minimizes Risk

At Woodfield Dental in London, Ontario, we take a gentle and personalized approach to periodontal therapy. To ensure treatment is safe and successful, we:
  • Perform a thorough gum and bone assessment before treatment 
  • Use modern, minimally invasive techniques 
  • Monitor healing closely with follow-up appointments 
  • Provide guidance on oral hygiene to prevent reinfection 
  • Offer comfort options if you experience sensitivity or anxiety 
Our focus is on preserving your natural teeth and restoring gum health in the most comfortable way possible.

The Benefits Strongly Outweigh the Risks

Treating gum disease early helps prevent:
  • Tooth loss 
  • Bone loss 
  • Gum recession 
  • Persistent bad breath 
  • Pain and infection 
Periodontal therapy also contributes to better overall health. Gum disease is linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and chronic inflammation — meaning that treating your gums supports your body, too.

Your Gum Health Matters

If you have bleeding gums, receding gums, or ongoing sensitivity, periodontal therapy may be necessary to restore your oral health. Our team is here to help you understand your options and feel comfortable during treatment.

Book a Gum Health Evaluation at Woodfield Dental

Let’s protect your smile and your overall health — safely and effectively.