Gum Disease Treatment in Port Coquitlam
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health conditions in North America—and one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Despite its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions about what gum disease actually is and how it can be treated or prevented.
At Elemental Dental in Port Coquitlam, we believe that educating our patients is just as important as treating them. Understanding gum disease and how to manage it can go a long way in protecting your long-term oral health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an inflammatory condition caused primarily by biofilm (dental plaque) and the bacteria it harbors. Over time, if plaque is not removed through daily oral hygiene and professional cleanings, it hardens into calculus (tartar) and begins to irritate the surrounding gum tissue.
The disease develops in stages:
- Gingivitis – the earliest stage, characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums. This stage is reversible with proper care.
- Periodontitis – an advanced stage where the inflammation spreads deeper, damaging the bone and tissues that support the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss.
- Certain areas of the mouth—such as deep grooves, pits, and fissures—are more prone to plaque accumulation. Even with regular brushing, these areas may be hard to clean effectively, which is why flossing and interdental tools (like water flossers or floss picks) are essential. These tools help disrupt the biofilm in places where toothbrush bristles can’t reach, playing a key role in both cavity prevention and gum health.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
While poor oral hygiene is a major contributor, gum disease can also be influenced by other factors, including:
- Systemic conditions such as diabetes
- Medications that reduce saliva flow or affect immune response
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics and family history
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
Some individuals are more susceptible to periodontal disease despite maintaining good oral hygiene. That’s why it’s essential to inform your dentist and dental team about any medical conditions or medications you are taking. This helps us provide care tailored to your specific needs and risk profile.
How We Treat Gum Disease
At Elemental Dental, we offer comprehensive periodontal care in Port Coquitlam, ranging from preventive cleanings to deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing. Depending on the severity of your condition, Dr. Ben and our hygienist will create a personalized treatment plan that may include:
- Professional dental cleanings
- Periodontal maintenance therapy
- Localized antibiotic treatment
- Oral hygiene instruction and lifestyle recommendations
- Referral to a periodontist, if advanced surgical care is needed
We monitor gum health at every visit by measuring periodontal pocket depths and checking for signs of inflammation, recession, or bone loss.
Concerned about bleeding gums or bad breath?
Early signs of gum disease are easy to ignore, but early treatment can prevent long-term damage. If you’re looking for gum disease treatment in Port Coquitlam, contact Elemental Dental to schedule a periodontal assessment with Dr. Ben and our experienced team.