Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This progressive form of gum disease doesn't just affect your oral health—it can also be linked to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. According to the Canadian Dental Association (2025), periodontitis is among the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.

Many cases are identified during routine checkups as part of general dentistry in Woodbridge, where early signs of gum disease can be spotted before they escalate. While gum disease often starts silently, its long-term effects can be devastating. Fortunately, with early intervention and a dedicated oral care routine, periodontitis is preventable—and treatable.

 

4 Symptoms of Periodontitis You Shouldn't Ignore

1. Bleeding Gums During Brushing or Flossing

Bleeding is one of the earliest signs of gum disease. If your gums bleed regularly during brushing or flossing, it could signal inflammation and the onset of periodontitis. While some may dismiss it as “normal,” it is not. Healthy gums should not bleed.

2. Gum Recession and Sensitivity

As periodontitis progresses, gums begin to recede, exposing more of the tooth and increasing sensitivity. Gum recession also creates deep pockets where bacteria thrive, worsening the infection.

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Do you often notice a foul odor or metallic taste in your mouth? This can be caused by bacterial accumulation in deep gum pockets—a classic sign of periodontitis.

4. Loose Teeth or Shifting Bite

One of the most serious signs of advanced periodontitis is when teeth become loose or your bite starts to feel different. This happens because the supporting bone and connective tissue are being destroyed by the infection.

 

What Causes Periodontitis?

Periodontitis begins with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. The bacteria in tartar can cause inflammation and infection in the gums.

Common risk factors include:

• Poor oral hygiene
   

• Smoking or tobacco use
   

• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)
   

• Diabetes
   

• Genetics
   

• Certain medications
   

• Stress and poor nutrition
   

These factors not only contribute to the development of gum disease but also increase the speed at which it progresses to periodontitis.

 

How Does Periodontitis Progress?

It starts as gingivitis—swollen and bleeding gums caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, the inflammation worsens and spreads below the gum line, forming pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets trap more bacteria and debris, deepening the infection and damaging bone and connective tissue.

If intervention doesn’t happen at this stage, periodontitis may result in permanent tooth loss and may require oral surgery in Woodbridge for correction.

 

How to Save Your Gums: Proven Periodontitis Treatment Options

1. Professional Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

This non-surgical procedure removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. It smooths root surfaces, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth. It is often the first step in periodontitis treatment.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

Topical antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses may be prescribed to target infection within gum pockets, especially in mild to moderate cases.

3. Surgical Options

In advanced cases, where pockets are deep and bone loss is evident, surgical treatment may be required. Common procedures include:

• Flap surgery to reduce pocket depth
   

• Bone grafts to rebuild bone structure
   

• Guided tissue regeneration to stimulate tissue growth
   

Sunny Day Dental offers advanced oral surgery in Woodbridge, tailored to each patient's needs.

4. Maintenance Therapy

Once the infection is under control, regular follow-up cleanings (every 3–4 months) are essential. Maintenance therapy helps prevent recurrence and keeps your gums healthy.

 

Prevention: The Best Cure for Periodontitis

Preventing periodontitis begins with strong oral hygiene and proactive dental care:

• Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush
   

• Floss at least once daily to remove plaque from between teeth
   

• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce oral bacteria
   

• Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco
   

• Maintain a healthy diet with vitamins C and D
   

• Schedule regular checkups for general dentistry in Woodbridge
   

Good daily habits, paired with routine professional cleanings, can protect your gums for life.

 

The Link Between Periodontitis and Overall Health

Recent studies from the Journal of Clinical Periodontology (2025) show a clear connection between periodontal disease and chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. The inflammation caused by periodontitis doesn’t stay in the mouth—it spreads through the bloodstream, triggering or worsening systemic inflammation.

By treating periodontitis, you're not only saving your smile but also safeguarding your overall health.

What Are the Symptoms of Periodontitis?
The most common symptoms of periodontitis are bleeding gums, gum recession, bad breath, and loose teeth. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help restore gum health.

Let Sunny Day Dental Help You Save Your Gums

If you’re experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum recession, don’t wait. Early periodontitis treatment can stop the damage and restore your oral health. At Sunny Day Dental in Woodbridge, we specialize in gentle, effective periodontal care—from deep cleanings to advanced oral surgery in Woodbridge when needed.

FAQs About Periodontitis

1. Can children get periodontitis?

While rare, children and teens can develop aggressive forms of periodontitis, especially if they have poor oral hygiene or underlying medical conditions. Early dental visits are critical.

2. How can I tell if I have gingivitis or periodontitis?

Gingivitis involves mild inflammation and bleeding, while periodontitis includes gum recession, bone loss, and loose teeth. A dental exam with X-rays is the best way to know.

3. Is laser treatment available for periodontitis?

Yes, laser-assisted periodontal therapy is a modern option for reducing infection and promoting healing. It's less invasive and often involves a shorter recovery period.

4. Can my gums grow back after periodontitis?

Gums may not fully regenerate after severe damage, but treatments like grafting or regeneration procedures can help restore gum tissue and protect your teeth.

5. What foods support gum health during recovery?

Soft foods rich in vitamin C (like berries and oranges), calcium (yogurt, cheese), and anti-inflammatory properties (green leafy vegetables, salmon) support healing gums.