232 3 Ave N, Williams Lake, BC V2G 4T5, Canada
Healthy Gums Are the Foundation of a Healthy Smile
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults worldwide, and it is far more common than most people realize. Studies suggest that nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease, many of them without knowing it.
The most important thing to understand about periodontal disease is this: in its early stages, it is largely painless and invisible to the untrained eye. Patients often have no idea anything is wrong until the disease has progressed to a more serious stage. This is precisely why regular dental examinations, which always include a periodontal assessment at Cariboo Choice Dental, are so essential.
We're open 7 days a week, 8 AM to 8 PM, with no waiting lists so you never have to delay getting the assessment or treatment your gums need.
Book Your Periodontal Assessment Today
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, including the periodontal ligament and the jawbone. It begins when bacterial plaque accumulates along and below the gum line and is not adequately removed through brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.
Over time, the bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate and inflame the gum tissue. If left untreated, this inflammation progresses from the gums into the deeper supporting structures, causing the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria accumulate further, and eventually leading to bone loss, tooth loosening, and tooth loss.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
One of the most challenging aspects of periodontal disease is that it is often silent in its early stages, causing little to no discomfort until significant damage has already occurred. Knowing the warning signs and acting on them early can make an enormous difference to your outcome. Watch for the following:
- Bleeding Gums – Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing are often an early sign of gum disease.
- Red or Swollen Gums – Inflamed, tender, or puffy gums may indicate infection.
- Persistent Bad Breath – Ongoing bad breath can result from harmful bacteria below the gumline.
- Receding Gums – Gums pulling away from the teeth can expose roots and increase sensitivity.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth – Movement in the teeth may signal bone loss from advanced gum disease.
- Deep Gum Pockets – Spaces forming between the teeth and gums are a common sign of periodontitis.
- Tooth Sensitivity – Exposed roots can cause discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Periodontal Disease Assessment at Cariboo Choice Dental
A thorough periodontal assessment is a standard part of every comprehensive dental examination at Cariboo Choice Dental. We don't wait for patients to report symptoms. We proactively screen for gum disease at every visit, because early detection is the most powerful tool we have.
Periodontal Probing
Our hygienist uses a small, calibrated instrument called a periodontal probe to gently measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums at multiple points around each tooth. Healthy gum pockets measure 1–3 millimetres. Depths of 4 millimetres or more indicate the presence of periodontal disease, and deeper measurements indicate more advanced disease. These measurements are recorded and compared at each visit to monitor changes over time.
Visual Examination of Gum Tissue
We assess the colour, texture, and contour of your gum tissue, looking for redness, swelling, recession, and other signs of inflammation or infection.
Bleeding on Probing
Bleeding that occurs during probing is a reliable clinical indicator of active gum inflammation. We note and record any bleeding sites as part of your periodontal assessment.
Bone Level Assessment Via X-Rays
Dental X-rays allow us to assess the level of bone supporting each tooth, an essential part of understanding the extent of any periodontal disease present. Bone loss that is not yet visible clinically can be identified radiographically, allowing for earlier intervention.
Full Periodontal Charting
All findings are recorded in a detailed periodontal chart that tracks the health of your gum tissue over time. This gives us a clear, objective picture of your gum health at each visit and allows us to identify any areas of concern or improvement.
Personalized Treatment Planning
Based on the findings of your assessment, our team will discuss your gum health with you clearly and honestly, explaining what we found, what it means, and what the most appropriate next steps are. If treatment is recommended, we'll walk you through your options with no pressure and complete transparency.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum infection and inflammation.
- Smoking & Tobacco Use – Tobacco significantly increases the risk of gum disease and slows healing.
- Diabetes – Uncontrolled diabetes can make gum disease more likely and harder to manage.
- Genetics – A family history of gum disease may increase your risk.
- Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can make gums more sensitive to infection.
- Certain Medications – Some medications can affect saliva flow and gum health.
- Chronic Stress – Stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to oral health issues.
- Systemic Health Conditions – Immune-related and inflammatory conditions may increase susceptibility to gum disease.
Don't Wait. Early Gum Disease Treatment Makes All the Difference
Periodontal disease is progressive but when caught and treated early, it is highly manageable. At Cariboo Choice Dental, we offer thorough periodontal assessments and personalized treatment plans with no waiting lists and prompt access to care. Open 7 days a week, 8 AM–8 PM. New patients receive a FREE $25 Gift Card on their first visit.
Book Your Periodontal Assessment Today
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
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