Gum disease:
causes, symptoms
and treatment.

Gum disease is extremely common — affecting close to seven in ten Canadian adults at some point — and yet largely under-diagnosed because it rarely hurts in the early stages.

Also called periodontal disease, it's a chronic bacterial infection that attacks the supporting tissues of your teeth: the gums, periodontal ligament and bone around the roots. Left untreated, it eventually leads to tooth loss — it's the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults, ahead of cavities.

Good news: in its early stage (gingivitis), the disease is fully reversible. In its later stage (periodontitis), progression can be stabilized. The key in both cases is to come in early.

01 · The causes

The primary cause is mechanical: a buildup of dental plaque — a sticky bacterial biofilm — along the gumline and between teeth. If plaque is not removed daily, it mineralizes into tartar, which can only be removed by professional scaling.

Several factors accelerate or worsen the disease:

• Smoking — risk factor #1, multiplies periodontitis risk by 4 to 6.
• Poorly controlled diabetes — bidirectional relationship (see below).
• Chronic stress — weakens local immune response.
• Hormones — pregnancy, puberty, menopause can make gums more sensitive.
• Certain medications — antihypertensives, anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants.
• Genetics — about 30% of people carry a family susceptibility.

02 · The symptoms to watch for

The disease progresses slowly and painlessly most of the time. Signs to recognize:

• Gums that are red, swollen or tender
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
• Feeling of loose teeth or a change in bite
• Gum recession — teeth appearing longer
• Pus between gum and tooth (advanced)
• Discomfort chewing harder foods

Important: absence of pain is not absence of disease. Periodontitis can silently destroy supporting bone for years before causing any obvious symptom.

03 · The treatment

The approach depends on the stage. Protocols used at the clinic:

Mild to moderate (gingivitis, early periodontitis)

A professional scaling removes plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline. Combined with better brushing and daily flossing, this is usually enough to reverse the disease. Recommended recall: every six months, or every three months for at-risk profiles.

Moderate to advanced (established periodontitis)

Root planing (scaling and root planing) cleans deep under the gum and smooths the root surface so plaque cannot stick to it. One or two quadrants per session, under local anesthesia. A local antibiotic can be placed in deeper pockets.

Severe (advanced periodontitis)

If pockets remain deep after initial therapy or bone is significantly affected, periodontal surgery may be indicated. Depending on the case: open-flap debridement, bone graft, gingival graft, or guided tissue regeneration.

04 · Prevention

The best periodontal therapy is the one we don't have to do. The routine that works:

• Brush twice daily, two minutes minimum, with a soft-bristled brush (manual or electric — both work with good technique).
• Floss or interdental brushes every day. This is the neglected step, and it changes everything.
• Antibacterial mouthwash if recommended.
• Professional exam and cleaning every six months (every three to four months if you're at risk).
• Quit smoking — the periodontal effect is measurable within months.
• Manage systemic conditions — diabetes especially.

Bottom line: gum disease is common, sneaky and chronic, but it responds well to early treatment. If you recognize any of the signs above — particularly repeated bleeding — don't wait. An exam allows a diagnosis and lets us start treatment before the disease reaches the bone.

This article is for educational purposes. It does not replace a consultation. For a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your situation, call us at 450-463-2450.