Periodontics in Peoria

A Periodontist Keeps Gums Healthy

Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist if your gum disease has become advanced or complicated. Periodontists have special training in diagnosing and treating severe gum disease and oral inflammation. Our experienced periodontist in Peoria can help restore your dental health when gum disease threatens to destroy it. Contact us today to learn more.

Causes of Gum Disease

Brushing and flossing regularly is necessary for removing plaque, which is a sticky, bacteria-filled film that forms on teeth after you eat certain foods. If you don’t remove plaque, it hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed with a toothbrush. As plaque and tartar build up, the bacteria infects your gums and causes your immune system to react with inflammation. Eventually, early symptoms of gum disease become apparent.

Main Types of Gum Disease

The mildest type of gum disease is called gingivitis. It involves superficial infection, mild swelling, and redness of the gums. If you have gingivitis, your gums may bleed when you floss or brush. If left untreated, your mild inflammation will become a more serious type of gum disease called periodontitis. This disease affects not only the gums but also the ligaments and connective tissues that support your teeth. Deep pockets form between your teeth and gums, and eventually your teeth may become loose and fall out. Prompt periodontal treatment is needed to halt the progression of the disease. Periodontists are often consulted to help save teeth when gum disease has become severe.

Can Other Things Cause Periodontitis?

Untreated gingivitis isn’t always the main cause of advanced gum disease. Periodontists also treat cases that are related to hereditary factors, cancer treatment, malnutrition, substance abuse, and other causes. Our experienced periodontists can help you regain your dental health regardless of what caused your gum disease. Contact us today so that we can connect you with a great provider.

Periodontal Disease: The Stages

Gingivitis

If you have gingivitis, you may experience swollen, red gums, or bleeding when you brush or floss. Because it is mild and usually reversible, most dentists don’t refer patients to periodontists.

Mild Periodontal Damage

In mild or moderate stages of disease, gums may separate from teeth and form deep pockets of infection. Treatments given by periodontists may include scaling or root planing, antibiotics, and medicated rinses.

Severe Periodontal Damage

The severe form of the disease may involve deep infection, loosening of teeth, or tooth loss. Periodontists may need to treat the condition surgically. Tooth extractions may also be necessary in some cases.

Understanding Periodontal Surgery

In cases of severe disease and extensive damage, periodontists can perform flap surgery to clean damaged tooth roots and remove or treat diseased tissue. Bone grafts and procedures designed to encourage new tissue growth are also possible. Periodontists only perform surgery when conservative methods cannot provide adequate improvement.

Will Treatment Cure Gum Disease?

If you suffer from an early stage of gum disease, you may be able to obtain a cure. Advanced disease often causes permanent damage, but periodontists can still stop the progression and help you preserve the integrity of your remaining healthy teeth. Our periodontists in Peoria are ready to help. Call us today to schedule a professional consultation.