That pink tinge on your toothbrush or floss isn’t something to ignore—it’s your gums sending an urgent message. Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and teeth that feel loose are all warning signs of gum disease, a progressive condition that can lead to tooth loss and serious health complications when left untreated. The good news? Modern periodontal treatments can stop gum disease in its tracks and restore your healthy smile.
At Dental Group of Chicago, we provide comprehensive periodontal care that addresses both immediate symptoms and long-term oral health. Our team combines advanced technology with a gentle, personalized approach to make gum disease treatment as comfortable and effective as possible. Whether you’re experiencing early warning signs or need treatment for advanced periodontal disease, we offer solutions tailored to your specific needs and designed to fit your busy schedule.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection affecting the tissues surrounding your teeth. Beginning as gingivitis with symptoms like bleeding gums and inflammation, it can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. This advanced stage damages the supporting structures of your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss and serious health complications.
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. During a comprehensive periodontal evaluation at Dental Group of Chicago, our specialists carefully assess your gum health, measure periodontal pockets, and identify risk factors that may contribute to your condition. This thorough approach allows us to create customized treatment plans addressing your specific needs.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Several factors can increase your susceptibility to periodontal disease. Poor oral hygiene creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, while smoking significantly impairs your body’s ability to fight infection. Medical conditions like diabetes can compromise your immune response, making gum infections more likely and severe.
Genetics also play a role in determining your vulnerability to gum disease. Some people are naturally more susceptible despite good oral hygiene practices. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gingivitis, requiring special attention to gum health during this time.
Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatments
For early-stage gum disease, non-surgical approaches are often highly effective. Scaling and root planing, a dental deep cleaning procedure, removes bacteria and calculus below the gumline while smoothing the tooth root surfaces to prevent future bacterial adhesion. This thorough cleaning helps gum tissue reattach to teeth and promotes healing.
Our Chicago periodontal disease specialists may recommend antibiotic treatments to complement your deep cleaning. These medications, delivered directly to infected areas, help eliminate persistent bacteria that mechanical cleaning alone cannot reach. The combination of professional cleaning and targeted antibiotics provides comprehensive care for addressing gum infections effectively.
Advanced LANAP Laser Therapy
For more advanced cases, Dental Group of Chicago offers LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) therapy. This revolutionary treatment uses laser technology to target infected tissue while preserving healthy gum tissue. LANAP offers significant advantages over traditional surgical approaches, including reduced discomfort, faster healing, and minimal recession.
The precise nature of laser gum therapy allows our specialists to selectively eliminate bacteria while stimulating healthy tissue regeneration. Many patients appreciate that LANAP requires no cutting or stitches, resulting in a more comfortable experience and quicker recovery time than conventional periodontal surgery.
Surgical Treatment Options for Advanced Periodontal Disease
Our experienced Chicago periodontists provide advanced surgical solutions when non-surgical treatments aren’t sufficient. Periodontal pocket reduction surgery removes bacteria from deep pockets while reshaping damaged bone, creating a healthier environment that’s easier to maintain. This procedure significantly reduces the risk of disease progression and tooth loss.
For patients experiencing gum recession, our team offers specialized gum grafting procedures. These techniques cover exposed tooth roots, protecting them from sensitivity and decay while improving aesthetics. Bone grafting may also be recommended in cases of severe bone loss, providing essential support for teeth and potentially preparing the area for dental implants.
Maintaining Your Periodontal Health
After your treatment, maintaining your results becomes essential. Our periodontal maintenance program includes regular deep cleaning appointments every three months to prevent reinfection and monitor your gum health. These visits allow us to catch and address any concerns before they develop into serious problems.
Effective at-home care forms the foundation of your periodontal health. Our specialists provide personalized recommendations for daily brushing and flossing techniques, as well as specialized tools like interdental brushes or water flossers that help clean hard-to-reach areas. For patients with higher risk factors, we may suggest additional measures such as antimicrobial mouth rinses to control bacteria between professional cleanings.
Schedule Your Gum Disease Treatment Today
Don’t let gum disease threaten your smile and overall health. At Dental Group of Chicago, our experienced periodontal specialists provide comprehensive, gentle treatment in our modern South Loop facility. With extended hours Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM and Saturday availability, we make it convenient to prioritize your gum health around your busy schedule.
Take the first step toward healthier gums by contacting Dental Group of Chicago today. We accept most PPO insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to make your treatment accessible and affordable. Call us at (312) 588-0043 or complete our contact form to schedule your comprehensive periodontal evaluation, or visit our website to request an appointment online.
