Periodontal Treatment in Wheaton, IL
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, yet many patients do not realize they have it until significant damage has occurred. At 20/32 Dental Co. in Wheaton, IL, Dr. de la Fuente provides expert periodontal treatment to stop gum disease in its tracks, protect your teeth, and restore your gum health. We treat patients from Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Carol Stream, Winfield, and the surrounding DuPage County communities.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, which causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, bone is lost, and teeth may eventually become loose or need to be extracted.
The bacteria responsible for gum disease live in plaque and tartar that build up along and below the gumline. Regular dental cleanings remove this buildup, but once gum disease has progressed beyond the early stage, a standard cleaning is no longer sufficient.
Our Periodontal Treatment Options
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
This is the primary non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar deposits from the tooth surfaces above and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the root surfaces so the gum tissue can heal and reattach more effectively. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia for your comfort.
Periodontal Maintenance
After the initial deep cleaning, regular maintenance visits every three to four months help keep gum disease under control. These visits include careful measurement of gum pockets, targeted cleaning below the gumline, and monitoring for any signs of progression.
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, Dr. de la Fuente may place localized antibiotics directly into deep gum pockets to help eliminate stubborn bacteria and promote healing.
Why Treating Gum Disease Matters
Protect Your Teeth
Untreated gum disease destroys the bone that holds your teeth in place. Treatment stops this process and preserves your natural teeth.
Improve Your Overall Health
Research connects periodontal disease to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory issues, and pregnancy complications. Treating gum disease benefits your whole body.
Eliminate Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath is often caused by the bacteria associated with gum disease. Effective periodontal treatment addresses the root cause, not just the symptom.
Prevent Costly Restorations
Addressing gum disease early is far less expensive than the implants, bridges, or dentures that may be needed if teeth are lost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Treatment
Common signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach. It is the primary non-surgical treatment for gum disease.
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be reversed with professional treatment and improved home care. More advanced periodontitis can be managed and stabilized but may require ongoing maintenance.
After initial treatment, most patients benefit from periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months, rather than the standard six-month schedule. Dr. de la Fuente will tailor a plan to your specific needs.
Healthy Gums Are the Foundation of a Great Smile
Do not let gum disease go untreated. Schedule your periodontal evaluation at our Wheaton, IL office today.
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