Gum Disease Treatment in Langley

Protecting Your Gums for Better Long-Term Oral Health

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the result of an infection and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support your teeth. In its early stage, gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed due to irritation. In its later stage, periodontitis, the gums begin to pull away from your teeth, which can cause your teeth to loosen or even fall out and may lead to bone loss in your jaw. Patients seeking gum disease treatment in Langley or gingivitis treatment in Langley should address symptoms early to help prevent long-term oral health complications. While periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults, children have also been known to develop it.


Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two greatest threats to oral health. A recent report states that 47.2% of adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease, with the percentage increasing to 70.1% among adults over the age of 65. Many patients benefit from professional gum disease treatment to help manage symptoms, protect their gums, and support their long-term oral health.

Causes of Gum Disease

Bacteria in our mouths begin to infect the tissue surrounding our teeth, causing inflammation that can eventually lead to periodontal disease. Understanding the causes of gum disease can help patients take steps toward prevention and early treatment.


When bacteria remain on the teeth long enough, they form a sticky film called plaque, which eventually hardens into tartar, also known as calculus. Tartar buildup can spread below the gum line, making your teeth much harder to clean. At this stage, only a dental professional can remove the tartar through plaque and tartar removal and ongoing periodontal care, helping stop the disease from progressing.

Warning Signs

  • Bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Tender or bleeding gums
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Risk Factors

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Heredity
  • Crooked teeth
  • Underlying immuno-deficiencies, e.g., AIDS
  • Fillings that have become defective
  • Taking medications that cause dry mouth
  • Dental bridges that no longer fit properly
  • Hormonal changes

Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. Pockets or gaps then form between your teeth and gum line, allowing disease-causing bacteria to build up more easily. If left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone around your teeth can be severely affected, eventually leading to tooth loss.


Patients searching for gum recession treatment or receding gums treatment often first notice discomfort or increased sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity from receding gums is commonly one of the earliest signs, while some patients notice that a tooth appears longer than normal. A notch near the gum line may also indicate gum recession. If you believe you are experiencing signs of gum recession, contact our office as early treatment can help prevent further oral health complications. Common Causes of Gum Recession

Periodontal Disease

The primary cause of gum recession is bacterial gum infection that damages the gum tissue and supporting bone around your teeth.


Poor Dental Care

Ineffective brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash allow plaque to develop into tartar. Only a professional dental cleaning can remove this hardened buildup.


Aggressive Brushing

Brushing too aggressively can wear away tooth enamel and gradually cause the gums to recede. Not only can gum recession affect the appearance of your smile, but it can also pose a serious oral health risk. Exposed tooth roots are more vulnerable to decay and no longer receive the same support from the surrounding gum tissue. Eventually, this may contribute to tooth loss.

Prevention and Treatment

Gum disease can often be controlled with proper oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings. More advanced cases may require deep cleaning for gum disease, medications, or corrective surgery.


Patients requiring periodontal cleaning in Langley or ongoing periodontal maintenance should attend regular dental visits. Brushing and flossing twice daily helps remove the bacteria responsible for gum disease, while routine dental checkups allow us to monitor your oral health and provide early treatment when needed. Consistent home care and professional cleanings remain the best approach for gum disease prevention and maintaining healthy gums.