Periodontal Therapy

Comprehensive Periodontal Therapy for Your Gum Health at Northwest Dental Specialists

Maintaining optimal oral health extends beyond caring for your teeth—it also involves paying close attention to your gums. Periodontal therapy is vital in safeguarding oral health by addressing gum disease, a common condition affecting teeth-supporting tissues.

Northwest Dental Specialists specializes in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease to protect your gums, teeth, and oral health. Dr. Paola Rojas, a skilled periodontist, provides advanced periodontal therapy to address every stage of gum disease, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. Located in Mt. Prospect, IL, our team is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile and prevent tooth loss.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection and inflammation that affects the gums and bone-supporting teeth. It’s primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film harboring bacteria. When plaque remains on teeth, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth.

As the infection progresses, it can damage the gum tissue and the underlying bone, potentially leading to tooth loss. Fortunately, in its initial stage, gum disease, known as gingivitis, is often reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene practices.

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Recognizing the early signs of gum disease is crucial for timely intervention and preventing further damage. While some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms, there are common indicators to watch out for. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to schedule an appointment promptly:

• Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Swollen, tender, or red gums
• Receding gums, making your teeth appear longer
• Formation of pockets between your teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pus, or infection around the teeth

Early detection and treatment of gum disease are vital in preventing its progression to more severe stages, preserving natural teeth, and maintaining optimal oral health.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease typically progresses through several stages, each marked by worsening symptoms and potential complications. The stages of gum disease include gingivitis, mild periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.

As the disease advances, the infection spreads deeper, affecting the supporting tissues and bone. If left untreated, even early-stage gum disease can lead to significant oral health issues.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

While poor oral hygiene is a primary contributor to periodontal disease, various other factors can increase your risk of developing it.

• Poor oral hygiene habits, such as inadequate flossing and irregular toothbrush use
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Genetic predisposition
• Chronic conditions like diabetes
• Hormonal changes

What is Periodontal Therapy?

Periodontal therapy encompasses a range of treatments to combat periodontal disease, restore gum health, and prevent further damage to your teeth and supporting structures. The specific procedures employed depend on the severity of the condition and your individual needs.

Periodontal therapy goes beyond routine dental cleanings, focusing on eliminating infection, reducing inflammation, and promoting the regeneration of lost tissues. It is a collaborative effort between you and the Northwest Dental Specialists team, involving both in-office procedures and ongoing home care practices to achieve optimal results.

Types of Periodontal Therapy

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, Dr. Rojas provides various periodontal therapies that can help restore your oral health.

1. Scaling and Root Planing
   • A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth root to promote healing.
   • Effective for managing the early stages of gum disease like gingivitis.
2. Pocket Reduction Surgery
   • We use surgical treatment to reduce the depth of periodontal pockets caused by infection and bone loss.
   • It helps prevent further damage and improves oral hygiene access.
3. Antibiotic Therapy
   • Medications like chlorhexidine or localized antibiotics may eliminate bacteria in infected areas.
   • Often combined with other treatments to enhance results.
4. Bone Grafting and Regeneration
   • Restores lost bone in areas affected by advanced periodontitis.
   • It supports the stability of teeth and prepares the jaw for potential restorations like dental implants.
5. Maintenance Therapy
   • We’ll schedule regular periodontal treatment appointments to monitor your progress and prevent recurrence.
   • Focuses on maintaining good oral hygiene and controlling risk factors.

The Importance of Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal therapy is not merely about aesthetics but is crucial for maintaining overall oral health and preventing potentially serious complications. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss when left untreated, as the infection damages the supporting tissues and bone. Moreover, the bacteria causing gum disease can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of other health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Investing in periodontal therapy helps preserve natural teeth, prevent further bone loss, and protect overall health. It also helps freshen your breath, reduce gum inflammation, and improve the appearance of a smile.

Stop the Progression of the Disease

Dr. Rojas brings advanced training and a patient-focused approach to every case. Whether you need root planing, pocket reduction surgery, or ongoing periodontal maintenance, we are committed to providing personalized care for long-term gum health.

Don’t let signs of gum disease progress unchecked. Call Northwest Dental Specialists in Mt. Prospect, IL, at (847) 398-0404 to schedule your consultation. Together, we’ll create a plan to restore your periodontal health and keep your smile healthy for years to come.