What is periodontal disease, and how can it be treated?
Drs. Peter Cabrera and Bahareh Sabzehei are dental professionals ready to provide patients with the information they need to avoid periodontal disease and protect their smiles from infection and disease. At Perio Implant Chicago, we are here to assist new and returning patients with periodontal disease, also known as gum disease.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is an infection that starts in the soft tissues. Bacteria often reside in the gaps between the gum tissue and the teeth and can grow and multiply. The infection can spread, resulting in the loss of bone, gum tissue, and even teeth without proper diagnosis and treatment in the earliest stages.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Some signs of gum disease include:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing the teeth
- Inflamed, swollen, and tender gum tissues
- Redness along the gum line
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession/loss
How is gum disease diagnosed?
Gum disease is diagnosed with dental imaging and a physical evaluation from our dental team at Perio Implant Chicago. Drs. Peter Cabrera and Bahareh Sabzehei can diagnose the condition and educate patients on the stage their infection has reached. Then, treatment options are discussed.
What types of periodontitis are there?
There are several types of periodontitis, and by getting a definitive diagnosis, our team can provide patients with the proper treatment for their needs. Below are just a few of the more common periodontal conditions that might impact an individual:
- Gingivitis
- Chronic periodontal disease
- Aggressive periodontal disease
- Systemic conditions causing periodontal disease
- Necrotizing periodontal disease
What gum disease treatment is right for me?
Speaking with our dental team and undergoing an initial evaluation and exam will help determine the best gum disease treatment for an individual’s unique situation.
What is involved in the maintenance of periodontal disease?
We strongly advise that patients take the time to protect their smile from disease and decay with proper home health care and routine dental visits.
Learn more about gum disease treatment and periodontal maintenance
Periodontal Disease: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease, often known as gum disease, is an inflammation of the tissues that hold teeth in place. In essence, it happens when plaque and bacteria accumulate on your gums, causing inflammation and infection. It is quite harmful to your dental health because it can cause tooth loss if left untreated.
How do I know if I have it?
Some common signs include red, swollen, bleeding gums, bad breath that won’t go away, or even loose teeth. If brushing or flossing causes your gums to bleed, it is worth checking in with your dentist or periodontist at Perio Implant Chicago for further evaluation.
Can periodontal disease be prevented?
Absolutely! The golden rule is to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and visit your dental team regularly for cleanings and checkups. Oh, and don’t forget to eat a balanced diet that is healthy and free from sugars and acids that can contribute to oral health issues.
Is periodontal disease contagious?
The short answer is no, you can’t “catch” periodontal disease like a cold. However, bacteria that contribute to gum disease can be spread through saliva. Sharing toothbrushes or beverages might not be a good idea if you want to protect your smile.
Can periodontal disease be treated?
Yes! The earlier it’s caught, the easier it is to effectively treat. Mild cases can be reversed with professional cleanings called scaling and root planing and improved oral hygiene habits. More advanced cases of periodontitis might require certain types of cleanings or even surgery. Our team at Perio Implant Chicago can evaluate you to determine the stage at which your periodontal disease has reached and what further action should be taken to address it.
Do only adults get periodontal disease?
Teens and even children can develop gum issues, though it is usually more common in adults. Teaching good oral hygiene habits at a young age and beyond is key to keeping those gums strong and healthy at every age!
If you are seeking a team of periodontists that can assist you with your oral health and wellness, we welcome you to call Perio Implant Chicago. We are located at 939 West North Avenue, Suite #700, and can be reached for an appointment by calling (312) 736-7959 .
