Perfecting Your Smile With Periodontal Care
A healthy smile starts with healthy gums! Periodontal care focuses on maintaining gum health and the supporting structures of your teeth. This specialized field of dentistry is crucial for preventing and treating periodontal disease, a common oral infection that can seriously affect oral and overall health. Understanding the importance of periodontal care and seeking timely treatment can ensure a healthier smile and optimal oral health for years.
At DiFranco Dental Specialists & Dental Implants, we are committed to improving the health of your gums and enhancing your overall oral health. Our Park Ridge, IL, team, led by Dr. Chuck DiFranco Jr. and Dr. Josie DiFranco-Bordignon, provides personalized periodontal treatment options to address gum disease and related oral health concerns. With a focus on advanced techniques and compassionate care, we strive to help you achieve a healthier smile.
Periodontal Disease Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis is the foundation of effective periodontal care. Using tools like the periodontal probe, we carefully assess the health of your gums and identify the severity of your condition. Early detection of forms of gum disease, such as gingivitis, can prevent the progression to more severe periodontitis. If you’re experiencing symptoms like bad breath, tooth sensitivity, or gum tissue inflammation, schedule an evaluation with us to address these issues promptly.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Our periodontal treatment options are tailored to the severity of your condition, ensuring effective care for every stage of gum disease. Whether you need a treatment for mild gum recession or a deep cleaning for advanced periodontitis, our goal is to restore your gum line and promote optimal oral health.
Minimally Invasive Gum Grafting
Gum recession can expose the roots of your teeth, leading to sensitivity and increasing the risk of tooth decay, discomfort, and further periodontal damage if left untreated.
Periodontal Care FAQ
Gum health is the foundation of your entire smile — and at DiFranco Dental Specialists, it’s at the center of everything we do. If you’ve been referred for periodontal care or have questions about what to expect, you’re in the right place. Here are answers to the questions our patients ask most often.
Why is periodontal care important?
Periodontal disease affects the gums and bone that support your teeth. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to broader health concerns, including heart disease and diabetes. Treating gum disease early not only protects your smile — it supports your overall health, too.
Is periodontal disease contagious?
The bacteria that contribute to gum disease can be passed between people through saliva, so there is some risk of transmission in close contact. That said, developing it depends on a combination of factors, including genetics, oral hygiene habits, and overall health. Our dentists can help you understand your personal risk.
What is going to happen at my first appointment?
Your first visit is focused on getting a complete picture of your gum health. Our dentists will review your medical and dental history, take a close look at your gum tissue, measure pocket depths, and assess for any bone loss. From there, we’ll walk through your findings and build a personalized treatment plan together.
Will I experience any discomfort?
We take your comfort seriously at every step. Some patients experience mild sensitivity during or after a deep cleaning. However, most find treatment far more manageable than they expected. Our team works to ensure you feel at ease and will always discuss your options before we begin.
Does periodontal disease mean I need more frequent cleanings?
Yes. Once periodontal disease is diagnosed, routine cleanings at a general dentist aren’t enough on their own. Most patients with gum disease benefit from periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months to keep bacteria levels down and prevent the disease from progressing.
Will I go back to my general dentist?
Absolutely. Our dentists work closely with your general dentist throughout your care. Periodontal treatment is a partnership. We manage the health of your gums and supporting structures. Your general dentist continues to care for the rest of your smile. Clear communication between our offices keeps your care coordinated and consistent.
