Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal Therapy Chicago
Periodontal disease is an infection of the hard and soft tissue surrounding the teeth, which gradually destroys the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous disease entities requiring different treatment approaches.
Periodontal Disease
Adults over 35 lose more teeth to periodontal disease than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.
Periodontal disease can be accelerated by a number of different factors. However, it is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). Bacteria found in plaque and tartar produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss, and can also be linked to systemic health problems.
Other important factors affecting periodontal health:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Stress
- Clenching and grinding teeth
- Medication
- Poor nutrition
Periodontal Disease Treatment
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, a routine cleaning is not the appropriate treatment for you. To treat the early stages of periodontal disease we perform non-surgical scaling and root planing therapy. This therapy allows proper cleaning of pockets and removal of tartar or calculus deposits. For your comfort, this therapy is usually done with the use of local anesthesia. Following your scaling and root planing treatment, we will recommend an appropriate schedule of maintenance visits of either 3 or 4 times per year.
Preventing Periodontal Disease
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and maintenance appointments. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress. Most patients need a minimum of 3-4 maintenance appointments a year following non-surgical therapy for it to remain effective.
