Gum Disease Geneva IL

Geneva, IL dentist Dr. Neeraj Khanna offers periodontal therapy for the prevention and treatment of gum disease. It is estimated that 3 of every 4 adults is affected by some form gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and contribute to health risks such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke and premature birth.

The best periodontal therapy is preventive. Your oral health routine should include daily brushing and flossing as well as regular visits to the dentist for professional dental cleanings and examinations. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional periodontal therapy is necessary to prevent its progress.

Treating Gum Disease

Depending on your specific condition, there are a variety of treatment options for gum disease.

Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease, often characterized by sore and bleeding gums. For gingivitis treatment, plaque is removed from exposed parts of the teeth and gums through a procedure known as scaling and root planing. Antibacterial rinses and other aids may be recommended to reduce inflammation and cure gingivitis.

If you have developed periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, Dr. Khanna may need to provide more intensive treatment. Scaling and root planning are procedures that clean the deep pockets of the gums to remove bacteria and debris. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease is considered a “silent disease” because many patients with gum disease don’t experience pain or obvious symptoms until advanced stages of the condition. Common gum disease symptoms include:

  • Red, swollen or sore gums
  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Changes in the fit of dentures

Why Do My Gums Bleed?

It is not normal for gums to bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. Yet, a number of patients come to us with concerns about bleeding gums or sore gums. There are a number of reasons why gums bleed. In some cases, it may simply be that the patient is brushing their teeth too hard, using a toothbrush with too firm of bristles, or being overly aggressive when flossing. The gums are an extremely sensitive tissue and you should be careful not to abrade or cut the gum tissue and cause bleeding.

Women are commonly affected by gum disease and bleeding gums during pregnancy due to hormonal changes taking place in the body. Pregnant women should continue to brush and floss, but be extra cautious around sensitive gum tissue to prevent bleeding. It is important to maintain routine visits to the dentist during pregnancy to monitor gum health.