Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe stage where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating deep gum pockets that become infected. This infection can destroy the bone and tissue supporting the teeth and lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease treatment in Crystal Lake and Carpentersville, IL, is a restorative dentistry service that can address and treat damage caused by advanced gum disease.
Understanding the stages and symptoms is important for early detection and treatment. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care, but periodontitis requires professional intervention. Symptoms of advanced gum disease include persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth. Knowing these signs can help you seek timely treatment with our dental care team.
Causes of Periodontal Disease
Several factors contribute to periodontal disease. Gum disease is one of the more common dental issues that we see at Advanced Laser and Cosmetic Dentistry. In fact, nearly one-third of adults will have some type of gum disease in their lifetime. These factors can contribute to developing gum problems:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that irritates your gums. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which is much harder to clean and can lead to serious gum problems.
- Smoking or Using Tobacco: Tobacco products are harmful to your gums. Smoking makes it harder for your gums to heal and fight off infection. People who smoke are much more likely to develop gum disease than those who don’t.
- Genetics: Some people are more likely to get gum disease because of their family history. If your parents or close relatives had gum disease, you might be at a higher risk too. You want to be more careful with your oral health if you;re more at risk of gum disease.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of infections, including gum disease. If blood sugar is not well-controlled, it can make it harder for the body to heal and fight off bacteria in the mouth.
- Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormones during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can make gums more sensitive. This makes it easier for gum disease to develop. Women should pay extra attention to brushing and flossing during these times.
- Medications: Some medicines can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva helps protect your gums and teeth. When there’s not enough saliva, the risk of gum disease goes up. Medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medicines can cause dry mouth.
Take good care of your teeth, avoid tobacco, and stay on top of your health to help you lower your risk of gum disease. Call Dr. Patel if you notice red, swollen, or bleeding gums. He’ll examine your mouth and find the right treatment to restore your gum health.
Benefits of Treatment in Carpentersville, IL
Treating periodontal disease offers many benefits. Treatment can save teeth by stopping the progression of the disease and restoring gum health. Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your teeth. Removing plaque and bacteria from your mouth also reduces halitosis and improves breath odor. Fresh breath boosts confidence in social interactions.
Treating gum disease can also reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic conditions linked to oral health. The bacteria that inflame your gums can spread through your body to worsen symptoms of conditions you may already have. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body.
Healthy gums contribute to a more attractive smile, boosting confidence and self-esteem. A beautiful smile can enhance personal and professional relationships. Gum treatment can also alleviate pain and discomfort caused by inflamed gums, so it’s easier for you to eat and speak. Reduced inflammation also means less bleeding and swelling.
Periodontal Disease Treatment Options in Carpentersville and Crystal Lake, IL
You have multiple treatment options to choose from if you develop gum disease. The right treatment for you will depend on your current level of oral health and stage of gum disease. Advanced Laser & Cosmetic Dentistry has a variety of options to fit your needs.
Scaling and Root Planing
This deep cleaning treatment benefits patients with moderate gum disease. During scaling, we use a special tool to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Then, we clean the tooth roots and smooth their surfaces during root planing to help the gums reattach to the teeth. Some patients may need more than one visit to complete the treatment. Our dentists will also recommend that patients with chronic gum problems get scaling and root planing every 3 to 4 months.
Antibiotics
Dr. Patel may prescribe antibiotics to fight your gum infection. You can take them by mouth, or we may apply them directly to the gums after scaling and root planing. Antibiotics help reduce swelling and the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Laser Therapy
Our laser dentistry treatment is a modern, less invasive option. We can use a laser to remove infected gum tissue and encourage healing. Laser therapy is gentle, causes less bleeding, and usually comes with less discomfort than traditional surgery. It also allows for precise treatment without damaging healthy tissue.
Surgical Treatments
You may need gum surgery if you have advanced gum disease. Our office can refer you to a periodontist for surgery. Flap surgery involves lifting the gums to clean underneath them and then placing them back in place. Bone grafting is another option if the disease has damaged the jawbone. This helps rebuild lost bone and support the teeth. These surgeries help restore the health and strength of your gums and jaw.
Risks of Untreated Gum Disease
Ignoring periodontal disease can lead to severe consequences and may increase your risk of needing emergency dentistry services. When you notice the warning signs, contact our dentist right away. Our dental care team can help you keep your gums infection-free.
Tooth Loss and Jaw Problems
In the later stages of gum disease, your teeth can loosen and even fall out. This makes it hard to chew your food or speak clearly. Losing teeth can also hurt your confidence and make you feel self-conscious when smiling or talking. Gum disease can also cause the jawbone to shrink, which may give your face a sunken look. Bone loss also makes it harder to get dental implants and other treatments that replace missing teeth.
Health Risks Beyond the Mouth
Gum disease doesn’t just stay in your mouth. The bacteria and inflammation can enter your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. Studies have shown a link between gum disease and serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Gum inflammation plays a big role in all of these diseases.
Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
Gum disease can also cause chronic bad breath, also called halitosis. If you don’t remove bacterial buildup in your mouth, you can experience bad breath daily. This can be embarrassing and affect your social life, relationships, and confidence. Getting regular dental checkups and treating gum disease early can help you avoid all these issues and protect your health.
Schedule a Consultation
Do you need to treat bleeding and sensitive gums? Contact Advanced Laser and Cosmetic Dentistry today. You can call our Crystal Lake, IL, dental office at 779-244-6264 or our Carpentersville, IL, dentist office at 224-701-3052.