Why Periodontal Care Is Key to Long-Term Oral Health

Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious oral health condition that remains the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. At Omnia Dental, we are committed to the prevention, treatment, and management of periodontal disease to maintain long-term oral health. Caring for your gum health today is one of the most important steps you can take to preserve your smile for a lifetime.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic and progressive condition affecting the gums, bone, and connective tissue that hold your teeth firmly in place. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, more so than even tooth decay.

The leading cause of periodontal disease is plaque and tartar buildup, which irritates the gums, leading to inflammation. Additional risk factors include genetics, smoking, health conditions such as diabetes, certain medications, and hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy.

What Are the Stages of Periodontal Disease?

The following is a look at the stages of periodontal disease:

• Gingivitis: Gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease, is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. At this point, the condition is still reversible in most cases because the bone and connective tissues supporting the teeth have not yet been affected.
• Early Periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to early periodontitis, during which the inflammation and infection intensify and the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that trap plaque and bacteria. At this stage, the infection begins to affect the supporting bone and connective tissue.
• Moderate Periodontitis: As the disease advances, the periodontal pockets deepen, and the destruction of bone and tissue supporting the teeth becomes more significant. While damage may now be irreversible, professional periodontal therapy combined with consistent at-home oral care can help prevent further damage.  
• Advanced Periodontitis: In this advanced stage of gum disease, the periodontal pockets will deepen, chewing may be painful, there may be significant bone loss, gum recession, and tooth mobility. If bone loss is extensive and treatment cannot save the teeth, extracting them may be the only viable option.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

While periodontal disease cannot be cured, it can be managed well in most cases with treatment and ongoing care. At Omnia Dental, we typically recommend a non-surgical deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing to restore your gum health. The procedure involves gently removing plaque and tartar from along and under your gum line, followed by cleaning and smoothing your tooth root surfaces. Scaling and root planing help discourage further plaque and bacteria and promote healing.

After scaling and root planing, we typically recommend periodontal maintenance appointments every 3 to 4 months. During your visits, we will clean your teeth, evaluate your gum health, and intervene, whenever needed, to safeguard your smile. It is also important to maintain meticulous at-home oral hygiene care, including regular brushing and flossing. The goal is to ensure your gums stay as healthy as possible and keep your teeth intact.

Periodontal Care Near Me in Buffalo Grove, IL

Contact Omnia Dental to learn more about maintaining your gum health. Dr. Shtilman and her team are dedicated to providing you with personalized periodontal care to safeguard your oral health. We invite you to call us at 847-495-2292 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!