Gum disease, or periodontal disease, poses serious threats to oral and overall health. Gum disease is caused by a buildup or imbalance of certain oral bacteria. If left untreated, these unhealthy bacteria can spread below the gumline and even travel throughout the body. This could cause bad breath, tooth decay, or tooth loss and even lead to or exacerbate serious health issues such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, or diabetes.
If you are suffering from these symptoms, or want to monitor your oral health, schedule a visit today at Lake Forest Smiles for an oral health checkup.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It starts with the buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not properly removed, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to inflammation, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
Stages of Gum Disease:
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation can affect the bone supporting the teeth, potentially leading to loose teeth.
- Gingivitis: The early stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing.
Periodontal Treatments at Lake Forest Smiles
Some patients may respond better to at-home or in-office treatments, which is why your unique treatment may include any combination of our tried-and-true methods. No matter the stage of periodontitis, our dentists prioritize personalized care, tailoring treatments to individuals.
Arestin
Getting rid of gum disease-causing bacteria is no easy task—even after a deep cleaning, it can still cause damage. Arestin is an antibiotic powder that gets applied directly to your gums, targeting harmful bacteria. It lasts up to a month after being applied and is usually combined with repetitive therapy for maximum efficacy.
LANAP® Periodontal Treatment
Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is an FDA-approved, advanced laser for treating gum disease. It is less painful and has more predictable outcomes than traditional osseous surgery. LANAP kills bacteria, eliminates inflammation, and promotes new tissue attachment without removing any healthy gum tissue. This minimally invasive procedure seals the gum pockets after the treatment to allow for bone regeneration.
Perio Protect
This at-home treatment helps to combat bacteria that cause gum disease in between appointments with your dentist. An FDA-approved medication is applied directly to your gums via a custom tray, much like teeth whitening treatments. It only needs to be worn 15 minutes a day, making it convenient, comfortable, and effective.
Repetitive Therapy
One of the most common treatments for periodontitis is a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums called scaling and root planing. A dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and removes any plaque or infected tissue below the gums. Repetitive therapy is performed regularly, at intervals recommended by your dentist depending on the intensity of your infection and the cause of your infection.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease can have major overall health consequences if left untreated for too long. Call our office for a checkup today if you notice any of the following.
Symptoms include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Bleeding gums
- Lingering bad breath
- Receding gums
- Gums that are swollen or sore.
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your Lake Forest Smiles dentist right away.
Who Is at Risk?
Gum disease affects half of U.S. adults. Several factors can increase an individual’s vulnerability to periodontitis, including:
- Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for gum disease. Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing infections, including gum disease. Conversely, gum disease can make it more challenging to control blood sugar levels.
- Genetics: Genetic factors can influence the body’s response to bacteria, affecting the likelihood of developing periodontitis.
- Osteoporosis: Conditions affecting bone density, such as osteoporosis, can contribute to the deterioration of the supporting bone structure around the teeth, increasing the risk of periodontal disease.
- Excessive Stress: Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections, including those affecting the gums.
- Medications: Some medications, like steroids, blood pressure medications, and cancer-fighting drugs, can impact oral health and increase the risk of gum disease.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make women more vulnerable to gum disease.
Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices are essential components of gum disease prevention. Early detection and intervention can prevent the progression of periodontal disease. If you identify with any of these risk factors, please contact our office to visit with our trained dentists!
Find Out What’s Going On In Your Mouth
To help you see how oral bacteria and other organisms are impacting your health, we offer oral pathogen testing from Swish Bio. Oral pathogen testing is an easy, painless way to look for early signs of gum disease that a regular exam can’t detect.
Swish Bio testing offers patients multiple benefits:
- The test can detect harmful microbes linked to gum disease and more.
- We can make targeted recommendations to protect your oral and overall health.
- We’ll be able to identify bacteria that can cause harm or indicate diseases.
Our commitment to utilizing such advanced solutions ensures our patients receive the highest standard of care and apply the best dental prevention. Ask us about getting your Swish Bio oral pathogen test.
Common Periodontal Conditions
Periodontal Abscess: A localized infection in the gum that can cause swelling, pain, and drainage. It requires immediate attention from a dental professional. and good oral hygiene practices are essential components of gum disease prevention.
Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. It is often reversible with good oral hygiene.
Periodontitis: A more severe form of gum disease that can result in the loss of tooth-supporting bone. Symptoms may include gum recessions, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth.
Recession: This occurs when the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots and increasing the risk of decay and sensitivity.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums
Maintaining healthy gums is essential for your overall well-being as well as preventing periodontal disease. Here are some tips for healthy gums that we suggest following:
- Eat a balanced diet, avoid tobacco products, and manage stress to create a healthy lifestyle.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth and under the gumline.
- Schedule regular dental visits and cleanings at least twice a year with our office.
Why Choose Us for Your Periodontal Treatment
When it comes to your oral health, particularly the health of your gums, you want the best care possible. At Lake Forest Smiles, we pride ourselves in providing quality care for all our patients and their dental needs.
At Lake Forest Smiles, we provide:
- An Expert Team: Our team consists of a highly skilled and trained team that is committed to ongoing education and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in periodontal care.
- Quality Care: We provide a full range of periodontal services, from preventative care and non-surgical treatments to advanced options. This comprehensive approach ensures that we can tailor a treatment plan that meets your specific needs.
- Personalized Treatment: We understand that each patient is unique. Our dentists take the time to listen to your concerns and conduct thorough evaluations to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your individual situation.
- Positive Patient Experience: We pride ourselves on delivering a positive experience for all our patients. Our friendly staff is dedicated to making your visits as pleasant as possible, and we are always here to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
Here are some frequently asked questions patients might have about periodontics and periodontal disease:
How is gum disease diagnosed?
Gum disease is diagnosed through a comprehensive dental examination, which may include:
- Taking dental X-rays to check for bone loss
- Measuring the depth of gum pockets around teeth
- Assessing gum tissue health
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup on teeth, which hardens into tartar if not removed. Other factors that can contribute include poor oral hygiene, smoking/tobacco use, hormonal changes, certain medical conditions (diabetes), and genetic predisposition.
What treatments are available for gum disease?
Treatment options range from professional cleanings and scaling/root planing to more advanced procedures like gum surgery or regenerative treatments. At Lake Forest Smiles, we offer at-home or in-office treatments to best fit your needs. Contact our office to learn more!
What is the link between gum disease and overall health?
Gum disease has been linked to several systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues, emphasizing the importance of oral health for overall well-being.
What are dental implants, and when are they used for periodontal disease?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed in the jawbone to support replacement teeth or bridges. They are often used when teeth are missing due to periodontal disease or other factors.
How often should I see a periodontist?
WIt’s generally recommended to see a periodontist if you have periodontal disease, or if you are worried about periodontal disease. Once your periodontal disease has been treated you will want to follow up with your periodontist around once a year.
Is periodontal treatment painful?
Many periodontal treatments are performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort. Patients may experience some soreness afterward, but it is usually manageable.
Protect Your Smile with Customized Care
Prioritizing your periodontal health is essential for a healthy smile and overall well-being. If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your gum health, contact Lake Forest Smiles now! Our skilled team is here to help you achieve and maintain optimal gum health.
At Lake Forest Smiles, we believe in transforming more than just smiles; we aim to transform lives. Join us on your journey to a healthier, more confident you. Call to schedule a consultation for preventing or managing gum disease today.