Gum Disease Treatment - Byron, IL & Pecatonica, IL
Don’t Let Gum Disease
Sneak Up On You!
Gum Disease: The Silent Threat to Your Smile!
Gum disease often begins its journey discreetly. Initially, you might sense a subtle tenderness or notice your gums exhibiting sensitivity, possibly accompanied by bleeding during your routine brushing and flossing. The progression occurs when layers of plaque and calculus build up on your teeth, triggering inflammation in your gums, which gradually retract from the teeth. If this process goes unattended, the consequences extend beyond a mere tint of “pink in the sink”. Gum disease, when unchecked, can pave the way for tooth loss, deterioration of bone structure, and may even contribute to systemic health issues such as cardiovascular disease, strokes, or complications related to diabetes.
Fortunately, at Bonvallet Dental, we are equipped to provide you with highly effective, minimally invasive treatments. These interventions are designed not only to curb the infection but also to sustain optimal oral health over the years. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the first sign of symptoms; your oral health is our priority!
Gum Disease Warning Signs
- Tender, inflamed, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose, shifting teeth
- Toothaches
- Receding gums
Key Gum Disease Treatments
Scaling and Root Planing
A non-surgical treatment, scaling and root planing is often the first procedure in the fight against gum disease. Scaling removes the bacterial plaque from above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth surfaces to encourage healthy tissue reattachment and protection against future infection.
Periodontal Maintenance
Once gum disease has been comprehensively treated, periodontal maintenance is recommended to ensure it does not return. This procedure is completed every 3-4 months and involves a deep cleaning of the teeth at and below the gumline to remove bacteria and plaque accumulation. These deep cleanings will replace your regularly scheduled hygiene appointments.
Frenectomy
A frenectomy is a surgical procedure to address gum disease, specifically in cases where an abnormal frenum, a small fold of tissue connecting the lips, tongue, or cheeks to the underlying gums, contributes to periodontal issues. A frenectomy aims to eliminate or modify the frenum to alleviate tension and improve oral hygiene. When an overactive or restrictive frenum pulls on the gum tissues excessively, it can lead to gum recession, compromised blood flow, and difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene, all of which contribute to the progression of gum disease. By undergoing a frenectomy, patients can experience enhanced gum health, reduced inflammation, and an improved ability to maintain optimal oral hygiene practices, promoting a more effective and lasting resolution of gum disease.
Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure to address severe cases of gingivitis or periodontitis specifically. This procedure involves the removal of excess or diseased gum tissue to eliminate pockets that may have formed between the teeth and gums, serving as breeding grounds for bacteria. The procedure aims to reduce the depth of these pockets, thereby preventing further bacterial growth and facilitating improved oral hygiene. By removing damaged tissue, a gingivectomy helps restore the health of the gums, promotes better attachment of the remaining tissue to the tooth surfaces, and ultimately contributes to the prevention and management of gum disease. It is often advised when non-surgical methods prove insufficient in addressing advanced stages of periodontal conditions.
Targeted Treatment for Gum Disease
The great news is that gum disease is preventable—and curable at an early stage! Just be sure to brush and floss your teeth and have regular professional teeth cleanings and checkups. If you do require care for gum disease, we’re the team to trust. We provide multiple treatments for gum disease in Byron, IL & Pecatonica, IL, depending on the severity of your case and the stage of gum disease you’re in. We’ll begin with a consultation that includes an oral examination.
Our dentist will assess your current oral health and provide you with a customized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs. Depending on your treatment and your anxiety level we may offer calming sedation dentistry to guarantee you’re comfortable throughout your visit. With proper treatment, maintenance, and good oral health habits, gum disease doesn’t have to damage your smile again. Most importantly, a smile free from bacteria and infection helps you live an overall healthy lifestyle!