Periodontists in Chicago for Treating Gum Disease

What is Periodontics?

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats diseases of the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. One of the most common conditions that adversely affects these tissues is gingivitis, which causes the gums to become inflamed and swell.

Without proper treatment, gingivitis will progress to periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis. Periodontitis causes the gums to shrink and recede. It can also cause damage to the dental bones, potentially leading to severe infection and tooth loss.

What Causes Gingivitis & Periodontal Disease?

Poor dental hygiene is the primary cause of gingivitis and periodontal gum disease, while smoking and illness can be contributing factors. These conditions cause a buildup of plaque, and without proper oral care, it can cause gum disease (gingivitis).

Plaque is a sticky, invisible film, composed primarily of bacteria, that forms on your teeth when sugars and starches in food interact with the bacteria that is normally found in your mouth. Plaque must be removed every day, as it re-forms quickly.

Plaque that’s left behind turns into tartar under the gum line, forming a protective barrier for bacteria to spread. Tartar makes it more difficult to remove plaque and causes irritation along the gumline. It can only be removed with professional teeth cleaning. The best way to prevent periodontal issues is with regular brushing and flossing.

Types of Periodontal Treatment

Fortunately, gum disease is not particularly difficult to treat. How far the condition has progressed will affect the type of treatment you need. All in all, a periodontal consultation is the best way to find out which treatments will be the most appropriate for you.

At Art of Modern Dentistry, our periodontal experts offer all of the following gum disease treatments in our Chicago offices.

• Teeth Cleaning

Having a thorough, professional teeth cleaning is the first step in regaining control of your dental health. During this procedure, your dentist will remove tartar and plaque along the gum line.

• Root Planing and Scaling

This is a slightly more invasive cleaning procedure, in which your periodontist will smooth the surface of your teeth. This will allow the gums to reattach themselves more easily, so bacteria will find it more difficult to grow and spread.

• Surgical Grafting

Surgical grafting involves replacing bone tissue that has been destroyed due to gum disease. This allows your teeth to reestablish their bond to gum and bone tissue and strengthens the bone structure.

• Pocket Reduction Surgery

During pocket reduction surgery, your periodontist will reduce and eliminate pockets that have formed between your teeth and gums. Afterward, the gums will be surgically lifted and the tarter and severely damaged bone will be removed. This procedure will discourage bacteria from forming and facilitate healing.

• Soft Tissue Grafts

If your gums are receding, this procedure – using healthy tissue from another area of the mouth – can repair them and strengthen your gums. This surgery is also used to cover exposed roots, preventing further damage and decay. The periodontists at Art of Modern Dentistry are the most trusted gum recession specialists in Lincoln Park and the surrounding Chicago neighborhoods.

Schedule an Appointment for Periodontics in Lincoln Park

If you’re suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis, turn to the experts at Art of Modern Dentistry. We’re the most trusted periodontists in Illinois, and it’s our goal to help you feel comfortable and informed about all of your treatment options.

Give us a call at 773-935-3600 to schedule an appointment.