Bleeding, swollen gums, loose teeth, persistent bad breath, and mouth sores are all signs of periodontal disease, which is also known as gum disease. When left untreated, gum disease can lead to significant oral pain and even health problems elsewhere in the body. The current medical thought is that bacteria are able to enter the bloodstream where they then spread throughout the body.
Fortunately, with the help of a professional dentist, the symptoms of gum disease are reversible, and severe oral and overall health issues can be avoided when the infection is diagnosed early.
At Dental Care of Lombard, our desire is to help patients achieve and maintain a healthy smile through compassionate, conservative dentistry. Dr. Julie Glud is prepared to create a personalized treatment plan for each stage of periodontal disease. Schedule an appointment with our friendly team today at 630-629-5700.
Gum Disease and the Body
When gum disease spreads throughout the body, the immune system responds by sending white blood cells to combat the bacteria. This interaction between the disease-causing bacteria and white blood cells results in chronic inflammation of the infected areas, which can lead to arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
In women, gum disease can result from hormonal changes, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
For men, who are statistically more likely to develop periodontal disease, the oral infection can lead to prostate issues, heart disease, and cancer.
Both men and women should maintain good oral hygiene routines and visit their Lombard dentist for regular dental cleanings and exams to avoid the development of these oral and overall health problems.
Diagnosis
Before we treat your gum infection, a member of our dental team will determine which stage of gum disease you have: gingivitis, periodontitis, or advanced periodontitis. Depending on the stage of the infection, symptoms may be advanced or more subtle.
A member of our dental team will examine your gums for signs of inflammation, irritation, or bleeding. Measurements of the pockets around your teeth will be made.
Once your diagnosis is official, Dr. Glud will create a treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
At-Home Treatment
In its earliest stages, gum disease can be treated by twice-a-year dental cleanings and using effective oral hygiene methods at home, such as:
- Proper brushing techniques
- Regular flossing
- Rinsing with an anti-bacterial mouthwash
- Eating a healthy diet
These habits should effectively diminish any disease-causing bacteria and stop the progression of gum disease.
In-Office Treatment
At Dental Care of Lombard, we offer scaling and root planing for patients with moderate levels of gum disease. This conservative and affordable periodontal therapy consists of three steps:
- An anesthetic is applied to the infected area.
- Built-up tartar is gently removed.
- Any rough areas over the roots are smoothed to help the gums and roots reattach and to prevent the return of gum disease.
Dr. Glud will most likely suggest that you add an anti-bacterial mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine to keep the infection from resurfacing.
In cases where a patient has developed advanced periodontitis, Dr. Glud may recommend a periodontist for specialized treatment.
Contact Your Lombard Dentist Today
Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that periodontal disease will not return. This means, once it is treated, you must maintain healthy oral hygiene habits to keep the condition from redeveloping.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, don’t put off treatment. Dr. Julie Glud and her team are prepared to restore your oral and overall health through effective, conservative dental methods. Call our office today at 630-629-5700 to schedule an appointment.
