How Can You Prevent Gum Disease By Periodontal Therapy?

December 15, 2022

Gum disease is a severe dental issue. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, and even systemic diseases. Luckily, there is periodontal therapy in Chicago that can help to prevent gum disease. In this blog, we will discuss the various ways this treatment can help prevent gum disease and why it’s crucial to seek periodontal therapy as soon as possible. 

What Is Periodontal Therapy? 

Periodontal therapy is a type of dental treatment that focuses on preventing gum disease by focusing on the gums. It includes scaling and root planing, two processes used to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. In addition, periodontal therapy can also involve antibiotics or other medications designed to reduce inflammation and infection in the gums. 

Why Is Periodontal Therapy Important For Preventing Gum Disease? 

Periodontal therapy is important for preventing gum disease because it helps remove plaque from areas that are otherwise difficult to access with a toothbrush or floss. This means that any bacteria or food particles stuck between your teeth may be removed before they have a chance to cause an infection or irritation in the gums. Removing these substances helps prevent the development of gingivitis and periodontitis, both types of gum disease caused by bacterial buildup and inflammation. 

In addition, periodontal therapy also helps improve oral hygiene by providing an opportunity for your dentist or hygienist to thoroughly clean areas that are not ordinarily accessible during regular at-home brushing and flossing sessions. This deep cleaning helps remove any food particles trapped between teeth or gum lines that could cause infection and irritation if left untreated. 

What Are Some Signs That You May Need Periodontal Therapy? 

Several signs indicate that you may need periodontal therapy to prevent gum disease. These include: 

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing 

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis) 

• Red or swollen gums 

• Gums receding away from teeth (receding gums)  

If you experience any of these signs, it’s essential to contact your dentist as soon as possible. An evaluation to determine whether periodontal therapy in Chicago may be necessary to prevent further damage from occurring due to gum disease. 

How Is Periodontal Therapy Performed? 

First, your dentist will assess your oral health to determine the extent of the damage caused by gum disease. Depending on their diagnosis, they may recommend one of several different treatments, including scaling and root planing, antibiotics such as tetracycline mouthwash or Chlorhexidine gluconate rinse, laser surgery, tissue grafts, guided tissue regeneration (GTR), etc. Each treatment is designed specifically with your needs in mind depending on what stage of gum disease you’re currently at.

Following an initial assessment of your oral health situation, your dentist will create a customized plan tailored towards helping you achieve optimal oral health through preventive care measures such as improved home hygiene practices combined with professional dental services such as periodic deep cleanings (scaling & root planing).

What Are The Benefits Of Periodontal Therapy For Preventing Gum Disease?  

There are many benefits associated with periodontal therapy for preventing gum disease:

 • Removes Plaque & Tartar Buildup  

Scaling & root planing removes all plaque & tartar buildup beneath the surface of the gums, which reduces inflammation & infection levels associated with advanced stages of periodontitis (gum disease). 

 • Improves Overall Oral Health 

By removing food particles trapped between teeth & along the gum line through professional cleaning services such as scaling & root planing combined with improved home hygiene habits, patients experience enhanced overall oral health due to reduced bacterial activity within their mouths which leads to minimized chances for developing cavities & other dental issues down the line which would require more complex corrective procedures than simply preventive care services such as those offered through periodontal therapy. 

 • Reduced Risk Factors Associated With Systemic Diseases

Research has shown links between increased risk factors related to cardiovascular diseases & diabetes when higher levels of bacteria are present within individuals’ mouths due primarily to unchecked amounts of plaque; periodical visits for preventive care services such as scaling/root planing offers patients protection against these systemic diseases by establishing an environment conducive towards better overall dental health leading towards minimized chances for these systemic illnesses later on down life’s road. 

The Bottom Line

Start taking care of your gum health before you have a problem. Periodontal therapy can help prevent gum disease and keep your smile looking its best. We highly recommend our friends at Periodontal Therapy if you’re in the Chicago area. They are experts in their field and will ensure you get the treatment you need to keep your gums healthy and strong. Contact them today to set up an appointment!