If your dentist has told you that you have periodontal disease, you certainly are not alone. Periodontal, or gum disease is not one disease but several. The one common denominator of all periodontal disease is the cause; bacteria found in dental plaque. Periodontitis treatments in Chicago are needed if gingivitis is left untreated.
The cause of gum disease:
Both gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by bacteria. Bacteria, along with other small particles mixed with mucus forms into a sticky substance called “plaque.” Plaque forms very quickly, it can be effectively removed with consistent brushing and flossing. Any plaque that remains on the surface of the teeth turns into “tartar,” a hard material that cannot be removed by brushing.
Gingivitis:
- The most common gum disease is gingivitis. The gums become inflamed, this is caused by bacteria along the gum line. Symptoms also include swollen gums and bleeding. Gingivitis is often accompanied by halitosis; bad breath. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease, when caught early enough it can be reversed with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings by a dentist or oral hygienist.
Periodontitis:
- When gingivitis is not dealt with, it advances to periodontitis. When gum disease reaches this stage, gums start to pull away from teeth, this results in a space between the gums and teeth, the space or pockets become infected which begins to break down the supporting bone and tissue. To save the teeth from becoming loose and eventually falling out, periodontitis treatments in Chicago become necessary.
The goal of periodontitis treatment is to eliminate infection. There are various approaches to treatment depending on the extent of the disease. The dentist can remove plaque by a method called “scaling.” The tartar is scraped off the surface of the tooth, above and below the gum line. This treatment rids the teeth of areas where bacteria form. Gum disease of any form requires that you maintain excellent oral hygiene at home.
Periodontitis treatments are a necessity for anyone that has a gum disease. If you need periodontitis treatments in Chicago, you are invited to make an early appointment with South Loop Dental Specialists.
