Periodontal Dentistry In Elmhurst, IL

Periodontal services in Elmhurst, IL encompass a range of treatments and procedures aimed at maintaining your gum and bone health. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a prevalent condition caused by bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums. Your Elmhurst, IL dentist offers periodontal services that prevent, and when necessary, treat gum disease. These services may include deep cleanings, scaling and root planing, and maintenance therapy. By addressing periodontal issues promptly and effectively, periodontal services help prevent tooth loss, preserve oral health, and promote overall well-being. Regular visits for periodontal evaluation and treatment with Dr. Gotsch and his Team, are essential for maintaining healthy gums and a beautiful smile.

Oral Hygiene Appointment in Elmhurst, IL

An oral hygiene appointment is a fundamental component of periodontal services to maintain optimal oral health and prevent periodontal (gum) disease. During this general dentistry appointment, Dr. Gotsch’s dental hygienist thoroughly cleans your teeth, gums, and surrounding oral tissues to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains that accumulate over time. The cleaning process typically involves scaling to remove hardened plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, then polishing to remove surface stains and smooth the tooth surfaces.

In addition to cleaning the teeth, an oral hygiene appointment may include other preventive measures and services tailored to the individual's oral health needs. These may include oral health assessments to evaluate the health of the gums, screening for signs of gum disease or oral cancer, fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities, and education on proper oral hygiene techniques and home care practices. The hygienist may also provide personalized recommendations for oral hygiene products, such as toothbrushes, dental floss, or mouth rinses, based on the patient's specific needs and preferences.

Regular oral hygiene appointments are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing the progression of gum disease and other oral health problems. By removing plaque and tartar buildup, addressing early signs of gum disease, and providing education on proper oral care practices, oral hygiene appointments help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime. Some patients with existing periodontal issues, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, often require more frequent and specialized periodontal treatments. 

Periodontal Disease Treatment in Elmhurst, IL

Periodontal disease treatment in Elmhurst, IL, a key component of periodontal services, aims to address the various stages of gum disease to restore gum health and prevent further damage to the teeth and surrounding structures. Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, occurs when bacteria in dental plaque and tartar cause inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can progress from mild gingivitis to more severe forms of periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss.

The treatment of periodontal disease typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation by our dentist at Elmhurst Smiles. Dr. Gotsch will assess the extent of the disease and determine the most appropriate course of action. For mild cases of gingivitis, professional dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene practices at home may be sufficient to reverse the condition and restore gum health. However, for more advanced cases of periodontitis, a variety of treatment options may be recommended.

Common periodontal disease treatments include scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, which involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line and smoothing the root surfaces to prevent bacterial colonization. In some cases, adjunctive therapies such as antibiotic treatment or antimicrobial mouth rinses may be prescribed to help eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation. For severe cases of periodontitis, Dr. Gotsch will refer patients to a periodontist (a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease).

Periodontal disease treatment aims not only to address existing gum disease but also to prevent its recurrence and maintain long-term gum health. Following successful periodontal treatment, regular maintenance therapy visits are essential for monitoring gum health, removing plaque and tartar buildup, and preventing the progression of gum disease. By promptly and effectively addressing periodontal disease, periodontal services help preserve natural teeth, prevent tooth loss, and promote oral health and well-being. If you're experiencing symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your gum health, call us to schedule a consultation to discuss personalized periodontal disease treatment options. Contact our dentist in Elmhurst, IL today!

Scaling and Root Planing in Elmhurst, IL

Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a non-surgical periodontal treatment used to treat advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis. It involves deep cleaning of the teeth and gums to remove plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from below the gum line and smooth the root surfaces of the teeth. SRP’s are typically recommended for gum disease patients with pockets of bacteria and debris that cannot be reached with regular brushing and flossing alone.

SRP’s are usually performed in two sessions, each focusing on a different section of the mouth. During the scaling phase, our hygienist uses special instruments called scalers and curettes to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline. This process helps eliminate bacteria and toxins that contribute to gum inflammation and infection.

Following scaling, the root planing phase involves smoothing the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from adhering to them and to promote the reattachment of the gums to the teeth. This should reduce the depth of periodontal pockets and promote gum tissue healing. While SRP’s effectively treat early to moderate stages of gum disease, more advanced cases may require additional periodontal treatments such as surgical intervention or ongoing maintenance therapy to manage the condition and prevent recurrence. Overall, scaling and root planing play a crucial role in restoring and maintaining gum health, preserving the integrity of the teeth, and preventing further progression of periodontal disease.

Periodontal services are essential for maintaining healthy gums and teeth and preventing the progression of gum disease. Visit Elmhurst Smiles at 127 E. Vallette St., Elmhurst, IL 60126, or call (630) 834-8055 to discuss personalized periodontal services tailored to your needs.