Healthy gums do more than support your teeth — they help protect your overall health.

Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common oral health issues, and it can progress quietly. If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, feel tender, look swollen, or your teeth seem to be “getting longer,” it’s worth getting checked.

This page gives a clear overview of periodontal disease, available treatments, long-term maintenance, how gum health connects to the rest of the body, and options for gum recession and bacterial reduction.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammation of the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It typically starts as gingivitis (gum inflammation) and can advance to periodontitis, where the infection damages the tissue and bone that hold teeth in place.

Common signs and symptoms:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Swollen, tender, or red gums
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
• Gum recession (gums pulling away from teeth)
• Tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, or shifting bite
• Pus around the gums or teeth
• Changes in how dentures fit

Why it matters:

When gum disease progresses, it can lead to deeper pockets around the teeth, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. The good news is that when caught early, it is very manageable.

Periodontal treatment options

Treatment depends on how advanced the disease is and what’s causing it. The goal is to remove infection, reduce inflammation, and create a healthy environment that’s easier to maintain.

Non-surgical periodontal therapy:

• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
• Localized antimicrobial therapy
• Home-care coaching tailored to the patient

Periodontal procedures (when needed):

• Periodontal pocket reduction therapy
• Targeted therapies for gum recession or tissue loss
• Referral to a periodontist when specialized care is recommended

Periodontal maintenance and long-term care

Gum disease can be controlled very well but can return if bacteria build up again. Maintenance is a key part of protecting results.

What maintenance usually involves:

• More frequent cleanings (often every 3–4 months)
• Periodic pocket monitoring
• Ongoing home-care adjustments

Systemic health connections

Research has shown associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions because chronic inflammation can contribute to wider health impacts.

Gum health may be especially important if you have:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular concerns
• Pregnancy
• Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
• Dry mouth or medication-related oral changes

Gum recession and regenerative procedures

Gum recession happens when gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, exposing more root surface.

Common contributors:

• Periodontal disease
• Aggressive brushing
• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Thin gum tissue or genetics
• Orthodontic movement

Treatment options may include:

• Desensitizing treatments
• Technique changes and protective strategies
• Regenerative or grafting procedures when appropriate

Laser bacterial reduction

In some cases, laser therapy may be used as an adjunct to periodontal care to help reduce bacteria in periodontal pockets.

When should you book an assessment?

If you notice bleeding, bad breath that won’t go away, gum tenderness, recession, or have been told you have pockets, it’s worth getting a proper periodontal evaluation.

Book a consultation

If you have concerns about your gum health, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mo at Delta Centre Laser Cosmetic Dentistry.