Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, goes beyond affecting your smile—it can lead to tooth loss and, if left untreated, more serious health issues. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, a deep cleaning is highly recommended. Deep cleanings, despite sounding similar to regular teeth cleanings, are actually the most effective and widely accepted treatment method for patients diagnosed with gum disease. This procedure is alternatively known as "scaling and root planing" or "periodontal therapy."

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, initially known as gingivitis, occurs when excessive bacteria found in plaque attack the soft tissues of your mouth. Early signs of this disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If detected early, we can help reverse the damage. However, if diagnosed at a later stage, we offer various effective restorative dentistry procedures to restore your mouth to a healthy and beautiful state. Regular examinations, cleanings, and specialized interventions to treat gum disease, if needed, can help you maintain strong and disease-free teeth and gums.

Benefits of Deep Cleanings:

While deep cleanings cannot cure gum disease, they can slow down or halt its progression. Deep cleanings effectively remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth and tooth roots. Additionally, the dentist or hygienist smoothes the surface of the tooth root, making it more challenging for bacteria to adhere to and easier for the gums to reattach. This process often results in healthier, pink gums, replacing the previously swollen and bleeding ones. Deep cleanings can also help decrease the necessity for future surgical interventions.

Incorporating Deep Cleanings into Your Routine Dental Visits:

As part of your regular dental visits, we may suggest incorporating deep cleanings and periodontal maintenance checkups if you have gum disease. This proactive approach helps manage gum disease and prevents its advancement.

Overview of Periodontal Treatments:

The management of gum disease involves a range of treatments in addition to deep cleanings. Periodontal therapy focuses on enhancing the gum tissue that supports your teeth. Diseased tissue is replaced with healthy tissue whenever possible. In cases where gum recession has occurred, gum grafting may be necessary to restore gum tissue and protect exposed tooth roots. Topical antibacterial or antibiotic solutions may also be applied to directly address bacterial infections in the tissues, either independently or in conjunction with other treatments mentioned.

Specialized Care for Advanced Gum Disease in Lake Forest:

Patients with advanced or complicated gum disease may require the expertise of a periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating gingivitis, periodontal disease, and other oral soft tissue conditions. They undergo additional specialized training in periodontics following their general dental degree. While all dentists are trained to treat gum disease, a periodontist's extensive training makes them experts in the field. If you have received a diagnosis of advanced gum disease, a periodontist can play a crucial role in your regular dental care. They will work collaboratively with us to create a treatment plan aimed at preventing the further progression of your condition.

If you are in Lake Forest and experiencing gum disease, we are here to help. Don't let gum disease jeopardize your oral health and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take proactive steps towards healthier gums and a brighter smile.