Periodontal (Gum Disease) Treatment in Langley, BC
Gum disease is the most common dental condition in Canada — and one of the most under-treated. Studies suggest that nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, many without realizing it. At North Langley Family Dental, we provide comprehensive periodontal care for patients in Langley, Walnut Grove, Willowbrook, Fort Langley, and the surrounding Fraser Valley, helping to arrest gum disease, preserve your natural teeth, and protect your overall health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue and supporting bone around your teeth. It begins with the accumulation of plaque at and below the gumline. When plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus) that can only be removed by a dental professional.
Gingivitis (early stage): Inflammation of the gums. Signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. At this stage, the disease is fully reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.
Periodontitis (advanced stage): If gingivitis is not treated, the infection spreads below the gumline, destroying the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Pockets form between the teeth and gums, deepening over time. Teeth can eventually become loose and may be lost.
Signs of Gum Disease
Many people have gum disease without experiencing significant pain. Warning signs include:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth, making teeth look longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between the teeth and gums
Periodontal Treatment Options
Professional deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
This is the first-line treatment for periodontitis. Using specialized instruments, we clean thoroughly below the gumline, removing tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces. This is typically done under local anaesthetic, one or two quadrants at a time.
Periodontal maintenance
After deep cleaning, more frequent maintenance appointments — every 3–4 months rather than the standard 6 months — keep bacterial levels under control and monitor the health of your gums.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Overall Health
Research consistently links periodontal disease to serious systemic health conditions including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Treating gum disease is an investment in your whole-body health, not just your smile.
We accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and most major dental insurance plans. We serve patients from Langley, Walnut Grove, Willowbrook, Fort Langley, Brookswood, and Aldergrove.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) is fully reversible with professional cleaning and good home care. Advanced periodontitis cannot be fully reversed — the bone and attachment lost cannot be fully regenerated — but it can be controlled and stabilized with professional treatment and ongoing maintenance.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
Scaling and root planing is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some tenderness and sensitivity in the gums for a few days afterward is normal. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient.
How often do I need to come in for periodontal maintenance?
Patients with a history of periodontitis typically need professional cleaning every 3–4 months rather than the standard 6 months. This more frequent schedule is essential to keep bacterial levels under control and prevent relapse.
Is gum disease linked to heart disease?
Research strongly suggests a link between periodontal disease and heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Inflammation and bacteria entering the bloodstream from infected gum tissue are believed to play a role. Treating gum disease is important for your overall health, not just your mouth.
Can I prevent gum disease from coming back after treatment?
Yes — with consistent home care and regular professional maintenance appointments. Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and attending your periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months are the cornerstones of preventing recurrence. Avoiding smoking also significantly reduces risk.
When should I see a periodontist vs. my regular dentist for gum disease?
Mild to moderate gum disease can be effectively managed by a general dentist with periodontal training. Severe or advanced periodontitis requiring surgical intervention may require referral to a periodontist. We will assess your condition and refer you if needed.
Bleeding Gums? Don't Wait
Bleeding gums or persistent bad breath? Don't wait. Contact North Langley Family Dental at 604-888-6885 or book online. Serving patients in Langley, Walnut Grove, Willowbrook, Fort Langley, and across the Fraser Valley.
