How is periodontitis diagnosed?

Periodontitis is diagnosed during a regular dental check-up. At each check-up, your hygienist or dentist will probe your gums and measure how deep the pockets are. If these periodontal pockets have progressed beyond the normal range, we’ll inform you and talk with you about your treatment options.

Can periodontitis go away?

Periodontitis can go away with professional treatment, especially if the disease hasn’t progressed very far. The only stage of the disease that can be reversed without professional treatment is gingivitis. If you already have periodontal disease, you’ll need help from us. Severe cases of periodontal disease may require additional treatments and it can be more difficult to recover from.

How do I know if I have periodontitis or gingivitis?

Your dentist can let you know how severe your periodontal disease is. It can be difficult to tell on your own just how far your infection has progressed, and it’s essential to know which treatment you’ll need to recover from the disease. Generally, periodontal disease is marked by receding gums, persistent bad breath, and tender gums that bleed easily. If you notice these signs, you may have periodontal disease.

Diagnosing & Treating Periodontal Disease

Safeguard the Foundation of Your Smile

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious dental issues. Fortunately, our Swansea, IL, dentist, Dr. Randall Wilson, offers several types of periodontal treatments to help reverse the effects of gum disease.

If you’re looking for quality dental care and treatment, don’t hesitate to contact Corner Stone Dental by calling (618) 236-0501. Our experienced dentist is ready to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

Types of Periodontal Treatments

Scaling and Root Planing

This non-surgical treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and smoothing the roots to prevent further buildup.

Surgery

In more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue and restore the health of the gums.

Laser Treatment

This minimally invasive treatment uses dental lasers to remove bacteria and diseased tissue from the gums.

Soft Tissue Grafts

This surgical procedure involves transplanting healthy gum tissue to areas of the mouth that have been affected by gum disease.

How Periodontal Disease is Diagnosed

Periodontal disease is diagnosed through a comprehensive dental exam, which may include:

Reviewing your dental and medical history
Measuring the depth of pockets between the teeth and gums
Taking X-rays to evaluate the bone density and structure of the teeth
Checking for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or recession in the gums

Benefits of Periodontal Treatment

Some of the key benefits of periodontal treatment include:

Improved Oral Health: Periodontal treatment helps to improve overall oral health by removing harmful bacteria and plaque buildup from the teeth and gums. This can help to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Reduced Risk of Tooth Loss: By treating gum disease early on, patients can significantly reduce their risk of tooth loss and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
Fresher Breath: By removing harmful bacteria from the mouth, periodontal treatment can help to improve breath freshness and overall oral hygiene.
Enhanced Smile Appearance: By treating gum disease, patients can restore the natural shape and appearance of their teeth and gums for a more attractive smile.
Reduced Risk of Other Health Conditions: By treating gum disease, patients can reduce their risk of developing these and other systemic health conditions.

Who Qualifies for Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal treatment may be recommended for patients who have:

Gum disease
Deep pockets between the teeth and gums
Signs of inflammation or infection in the gums
Bone loss around the teeth

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease

Preventing periodontal disease is key to maintaining good oral health. Here are some tips to prevent gum disease:

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth
Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath
Eat a balanced diet that’s low in sugar and processed foods
Avoid smoking and tobacco products

Frequently Asked Questions

No, periodontal disease is not contagious. It’s caused by bacteria that are naturally present in the mouth, but it cannot be passed from one person to another through normal contact.

Yes, with proper treatment and good oral hygiene habits, it’s possible to reverse the effects of gum disease. Treatment typically involves a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing, along with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Most dentists recommend getting a dental cleaning every six months. However, the frequency of cleanings may vary depending on an individual’s oral health needs. It’s important to discuss this with your dentist.

Yes, periodontal disease has been linked to other health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Research suggests that the inflammation caused by gum disease may contribute to these and other systemic health conditions. This is why it’s critical to take care of your oral health as part of your overall wellness routine.

Protecting Your Smile at Corner Stone Dental

Periodontal disease can have serious consequences for your oral health, but with the right treatment and prevention strategies, it’s possible to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding or swollen gums, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your Swansea, IL dentist by calling (618) 236-0501. With proper care and attention, you can protect your smile for years to come.

Periodontal Diagnosis and Treatment in Swansea, IL