The gums and bone that support your teeth play a crucial role in your oral health. If they are not properly cared for, your teeth will eventually become loose and fall out. This is the result of periodontal disease, an inflammatory condition that causes the loss of the supporting tissue. Chicago periodontics is the dental specialty that treats this condition and its related problems.
Chicago periodontists are experts in saving and replacing your natural teeth using the latest research. They also have extensive training in treating and managing tooth replacement procedures such as dental implants.
The main goal of any periodontist is to treat and prevent gum disease. This is because the loss of teeth and bone that occurs in periodontitis can contribute to other conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney problems and sleep apnea. It is important that patients receive periodontal treatment when they first notice symptoms such as swollen and tender gums, redness of the gums, or bad breath.
Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease and can usually be treated with deep cleaning and proper home maintenance. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis which has more severe symptoms and damage to the tissues and bones surrounding your teeth. Periodontitis may be treated with surgery or non-surgical treatment. The latter includes scaling and root planing which removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the surface of the teeth and beneath the gum line. It also involves the use of a localized antibiotic and antimicrobial wash to eliminate infection-causing bacteria.
In addition to traditional treatments, a periodontist can also perform grafts to regenerate lost gum and bone tissue. This can be performed in conjunction with other surgeries such as root canal therapy or dental implant placement. Grafts can also be used to improve the appearance of the mouth by reducing uneven gum lines or covering exposed roots.
If you have any of the telltale signs of gum disease, then it is important to contact a Chicago periodontist to schedule your appointment today. Timely periodontal treatment can save your teeth and prevent the serious complications associated with gum disease such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney problems.
Periodontists specialize in the surgical and non-surgical management of gum diseases and other soft tissue problems. They have advanced training in periodontal therapy and advanced implant treatment including sinus augmentation, ridge augmentation, bone grafting, and All-On-Four dental implants.
A new classification of periodontitis has been developed to help orthodontists and dentists identify when a patient is at risk of losing their natural teeth. The new system is called the Periodontitis Severity Index (PSOI) and divides the disease into different stages and grades. It is based on new scientific evidence regarding periodontitis. The PSOI uses the following criteria: