Periodontal Therapy An Overview
Dr. Brent Engelberg can provide comprehensive periodontal therapy for treating the various symptoms of gum disease and restoring your dental health.
Maintaining the health of your gums is the key to enjoying a lifetime of optimal dental health. Gum disease affects approximately 75% of adults at some point in their lives and remains the leading cause of tooth loss today.
Routine dental care provides the opportunity for our staff to spot the early signs of gum disease during a periodontal screening. Spotting the signs early on can significantly reduce the risk of permanent damage as a result of advanced periodontal disease.
What Are Some Typical Signs of Gum Disease?
Understanding and recognizing the signs of gum disease can prevent progression and possible damage to teeth and gums. Common signs and symptoms can include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifted teeth
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Changes in the fit of dentures
- Sores in the mouth
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease has four stages and can often progress unnoticed in patients who do not receive regular dental care or are prone to periodontal disease. Early intervention can avoid deteriorating dental health and the need for extensive treatment to address damage to both the teeth and the gums.
Gingivitis
This is the first stage of gum disease and the only one that’s reversible. Plaque builds up on the teeth, irritating and inflaming the gum tissue. Many of the early symptoms of them are painless, so it can be hard to notice them early. Most likely, you’ll notice your gums bleeding regularly. When caught early enough, we can use an increase in oral healthcare to treat it. We may give you a special mouthwash or toothpaste to use to help.
Slight Periodontal Disease
At this point, the condition is no longer reversible but can be managed. The infection spreads and starts to attack the jawbone because the bacteria have become more aggressive. Scaling and root planing manage the condition at this stage. Bacteria and debris are removed from the gum pockets that have formed. Then, we smooth down the tooth roots so that the gum tissue can reattach to the bone.
Mild Periodontal Disease
At this stage, the bacteria become even more aggressive and enter the bloodstream as well as the bone. Once the bacteria are in the blood, they can carry infection and inflammation around to other parts of the body. Like with slight periodontal disease, scaling and root planing are used to manage the infection at this stage.
Severe Periodontal Disease
At this stage, the infection has completely evolved into disease-causing bacteria. Your gums are red and oozing pus, you have severe bad breath, and it’s hard and painful to chew food. Left alone, your teeth start to become loose and can completely fall out because their support is damaged. At this stage, gum surgery or laser periodontal therapy are the only options to manage the condition.
"I really didn't think going to the dentist would ever be enjoyable, but Dr. brents team go out of their way to make me feel comfortable and relaxed. Oh yeah, they did a great job on my teeth as well. Thanks Doc."Thomas M.
"Dr. Engelberg and his staff are always on top of their game. Highly recommended practice for your dental needs."Patrick H.
"I use to hate going to the dentist. But my experience with Dr. Brent Engelberg and his staff has changed my perception of going to the dentist. They are excellent at what they do and his office has a very calming atmosphere. I would highly recommend Dr. Engelberg to anyone looking for a new dentist in the Chicago area."Tim E.
"I have always had a great experience when going here. The front desk is always friendly and helpful with any questions I've had regarding my payments/insurance. Pam is the hygienist I always go to and she does an amazing job. I always leave a happy customer."Alyssa M.
"I have been coming to this practice for over 20 years. Whenever you walk through the doors you are greeted by a smile behind the desk. I have a special bond with Pam one of the hygienist who is always so caring and goes over the top to get me sceduled in with her. She even goes out of her way if I've cancelled an appointment she will call me personally to rescedule. She only wants what is best for my teeth. The atmosphere is like a spa like feeling. You almost forget you are at the "dentist" when you are all done with your cleaning and you get handed a warm towel."Beth C.
"Hi! I'm Les' wife, Eydie, using his FaceBook page. Well, where do I begin? I've been with this dental group for almost 35 years and when Dr. Engelberg took over the practice, we remained. My words can only help you make a decision to have your dental care here, but you truly need to experience this for yourself. I promise you, you won't go anywhere else! Dr. Engelberg takes a personal interest in my dental health and has always fit me in for emergencies. He's friendly, professional and caring. Most of all, he's a darn good dentist! I've been fortunate enough to have Margaret as my hygeniest, a great technician who cares about the quality of her work. We go way back .. we've watched our own families grow. Occasionally, other technicians have taken care of me ... they all have set high standards. The office staff greets you and makes you feel that you're an important part of making the entire practice a success. High quality work, competent employees, friendliness. Why go somewhere else? Become part of the family!"Les M.
Periodontal Therapy What to Expect
What Are My Options For Treatment of Gum Disease?
Dr. Engelberg will assess your oral health and recommend the appropriate periodontal therapy for your unique needs. Treatment will depend on the stage of gum disease and any contributing medical or lifestyle factors. Treatment options can include:
- Anti-bacterial rinses: For early-stage gum disease, an antibacterial rinse can reduce the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
- Scaling and root planing: A thorough cleaning technique performed in our office that removes plaque from the tooth roots and deep recesses of the gums.
- Laser dentistry: Gentle dental lasers can remove damaged and diseased tissue, enabling the gums to heal.
- Referral to a specialist: For advanced cases of gum disease requiring more extensive treatment, Dr. Engelberg will refer patients to a local specialist.
