Periodontics in Peoria

Meet the Periodontist

A periodontist is a dental specialist who has additional experience and training in managing severe or complex cases of gum disease. Periodontists may also specialize in dental implants and other restorations that are needed after disease has caused tooth loss. If you’re looking for skilled periodontists in Peoria, we can help. Contact us today to get in touch with a provider who can meet your needs.

Gum Disease Causes

Gum disease begins as a mild infection and inflammation of your gums. It’s usually caused by the presence of plaque and tartar that has built up on tooth surfaces over time. If you don’t remove plaque by brushing and flossing, the sticky film remains on your teeth and irritates your gums. Eventually, the bacteria contained in plaque lead to serious infection and progressive damage to the structures that hold your teeth in place. Systemic illnesses, lifestyle habits, and immune suppression can make you more vulnerable to gum disease.

Two Types of Gum Disease

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main types of gum disease affecting adults. Gingivitis is the mildest form, and causes swollen, red gums, and sometimes bad breath. If you have gingivitis, you may find that your teeth bleed easily, especially when you brush or floss.

Periodontists gets involved when gingivitis is neglected and the infection spreads deeper into the supporting tissues that hold teeth in place. Advanced gum disease causes gums to recede and deep pockets to form at the base of teeth. Prompt periodontal treatment is needed to prevent the disease from causing bone damage, loose teeth or tooth loss.

Additional Causes of Periodontitis

Periodontists also treat cases of severe gum disease that are caused by hereditary factors, severe systemic illness, cancer treatment, and even injuries to the gums. No matter what has caused your gum disease, our skilled and compassionate periodontists can help you optimize your oral health and prevent progression of your disease. Give our office a call today to learn more.

Understanding Periodontal Disease Stages

Stage One: Gingivitis

In gingivitis, mild swelling, bad breath, gum soreness, and bleeding are present. Treatment from periodontists is not usually required.

Stage Two: Mild Periodontal Damage

In the second stage, teeth and gums separate and pockets form at the gum line. Periodontists treat stage two of the disease with scaling, root planing, antiseptic rinses, and antibiotics.

Stage Three: Severe Periodontal Damage

Once the disease has affected the connective tissue and bone, teeth loosen and gaps form between them. At this stage, periodontists often perform graft or flap surgery and extract damaged teeth as necessary.

Periodontal Surgery for Advanced Disease

Periodontists often perform flap surgery to treat advanced disease. The procedure involves exposing and cleaning out tooth roots and repairing damages. Tissue and bone grafts are also options that periodontists may recommend.

Is There a Cure for Gum Disease?

If you obtain treatment in the early stages of gum disease when it is reversible, a cure is possible and even likely. Gum disease that has progressed may not be curable, but periodontists can help you manage it effectively and halt its progress to tooth loss. Don’t let gum disease ruin your smile. Contact us today to find the best periodontists in Peoria.