A periodontist in Chicago is a dental specialist who concentrates on treating tissues surrounding the teeth. They thus treat gum disease and related conditions.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis or periodontal disease is a common condition in which the gums develop a bacterial infection. Periodontitis has two stages. During the first stage, which is called gingivitis, the infection is confined to the gums. In full-blown periodontitis, the infection spreads to other tissues, including bone. Untreated periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth loss.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
Periodontal maintenance is a treatment regime designed to keep a patient’s gum disease under control. It is particularly helpful for patients who, despite practicing good oral hygiene, are still susceptible to gum disease.
During each visit, the dentist will examine the patient and take X-rays. They will measure the pockets surrounding the teeth and perform a dental cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar. If necessary, they will prescribe medications.
What Is Scaling and Root Planning?
Scaling and root planning are standard treatments for gum disease. As a variation of the usual dental cleaning, scaling is the most common non-surgical treatment for gum disease. During scaling, the dentist will use ultrasonic or manual instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth above the gum line. During root planning, they will use the same tools to go under the gum line and clean the tooth roots. They will also smooth the tooth root to help healing.
Scaling and planning can be done on their own or before surgery.
Contact South Loop Dental Specialists or visit endoperiosurg.com to schedule an appointment with a periodontist in Chicago.