Would you like to learn more about periodontics? You've come to the right place! In today’s post, we’ll answer a few of the most common questions we receive about periodontistry. If you would like to learn more, or if you need to schedule an appointment, then get in touch with our office at 847-276-2500 or schedule an appointment using our convenient online contact form. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
Common Periodontistry FAQs
What Is the Primary Cause of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)?
The primary cause of periodontal disease is poor oral hygiene, though other lifestyle factors and health conditions can contribute to the disease’s progression. These factors include, but are not limited to:
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Old and worn-out fillings or bridges
- Diabetes
- Steroids, cancer treatment drugs, anti-epilepsy medications, and other medications
- Oral contraceptives
- Poor nutrition
- Obesity
While this list is not exhaustive, it covers the main factors that contribute to periodontal disease. Speak with your periodontist about your specific circumstances.
Is Periodontal Disease Treatable?
Yes! Periodontal disease is treatable, though it’s important for you to meet with a periodontist as soon as your general dentist notices the beginning stages of gum disease. Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your mouth — it can affect your entire body. In fact, research has shown that periodontal disease can contribute to heart disease, premature births, diabetes, and other serious health conditions.
If you see a periodontist, your treatment will vary according to the extent of the disease’s progression. Non-surgical treatments include:
- Root planing: As we mentioned above, the main cause of periodontal disease is poor oral hygiene and tartar buildup. Root planing smooths the surfaces of your teeth’s roots, which reduces inflammation and reduces tartar and bacteria buildup.
- Scaling: Scaling is the process of removing bacteria and tartar from the surface of your teeth using traditional or ultrasonic devices.
- Antibiotics: Because periodontal disease is partially caused by bacteria, antibiotics can help to control the spread of bacteria in your mouth.
Does the Initial Examination Hurt?
Most patients find that the initial examination is completed with little or no discomfort at all. When you come to our oral surgency center, you can expect a short oral examination of your teeth and gums. Your periodontist will check to see how easily your gums bleed, measure the size of the pockets between your teeth and gums, and potentially take X-rays. They will formulate a personalized treatment plan as soon as they’ve taken a thorough look at your mouth.
We hope that this post has answered some of your questions about periodontal disease and periodontistry. Keep an eye on our blog page for future posts in which we’ll continue to answer the most common questions we receive about this area of dentistry.
If you need to see a periodontist in Buffalo Grove, then get in touch North Shore Smile Surgery to schedule an appointment! You won’t be let down when you come to Buffalo Grove’s Top Rated Local® oral surgery center.
