The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis, the more advanced form of gum disease. It is common to experience little or no symptoms or obvious signs of gum disease. For this reason, regular visits to the dentist are critical to preventing and managing gum disease.
Common signs of gum disease include:
Chicago dentist Dr. Theodore offers several treatment options for periodontal disease. If you have early signs of gum disease, Dr. Theodore may recommend frequent dental cleanings (2, 3 or 4 per year) to control infection and prevent the further development of gum disease.
If more intensive treatment is needed, Dr. Theodore may recommend a deep teeth cleaning known as scaling and root planning. During this procedure, the dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of the gum.
Patients who have advanced signs of gum disease may require more intense treatment or surgery. Dr. Theodore may refer you to a local periodontist for treatment.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Plaque is constantly forming in the mouth. If it is not removed daily by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar. Bacteria thrives in this environment and over time, it can develop into gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease.
Gingivitis can progress into an infection, destroy gum tissue and eventually degrade bone to the point that teeth can become loose or missing.
What can be done to prevent gum disease
The best way to fight gum disease is prevention. Dr. Theodore encourages patients to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. Regular visits to our Chicago dentist office will also help reduce your risk for developing gum disease.
Another important step to preventing gum disease is having a healthy diet. This means limiting sodas, sweets and snacks between meals. Drinking water will also help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
"Dr. Theodore and her staff have been a part of my family's dental care for over 20 years. I have always had phenomenal service each and every time. Thanks so much for all you do!"
"Dr. Theodore has been our family dentist for over 12 years. She is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate and caring. She is attentive to our needs and communicates honestly and openly. She responds promptly to any concerns that we have and her office staff is competent, kind and helpful. My family and I are very satisfied with the care and service that we receive from Dr. T."
"Dr. Theodore gave me my smile and my life back. For years my horrible teeth embarrassed me, I never smiled anymore and if I did – I covered my mouth. I knew that I was in desperate need of extensive dental work but seemed to always end up with the wrong dentist. It wasn’t until I met Dr. Theodore that I knew I was in the right place. She immediately made me feel comfortable. Dr. Theodore created a complete dental plan for me that was manageable and thoroughly thought out, while making sure that I was involved with every decision that needed to be made. She is an expert in her field who is not only extremely knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring. I now am able to smile and laugh again."
"I've been a patient of Dr. Theodore's for over 10 years now. Two things that stand out: I have progressed from being the worlds biggest "dental wimp", preferring (seriously) to be fully anesthetized during routine cleaning, to not even feeling the need for local anesthetic on recent visits for fillings! She has well earned my trust with her confident, precise dentistry, which is balanced by her genuinely empathetic, and gentle approach. This combined with the professionalism with which her office is run, is the example that others in her field should aspire to."
"I spent a great deal of time searching for a good dentist. My search was not in vain. I had the good fortune of finding Dr. Theodore, who is a great dentist. She is very precise in her work. So much so that I would say that she is a perfectionist. Actually, she is a charming perfectionist. I have recommended Dr. Theodore to many friends and they share my great opinion of her work."
"We've been patients of Dr. Theodore for almost 10 years and have nothing but the highest praise and gratitude for her utmost professionalism and comprehensive dental care. She utilizes modern technology and advanced treatments in her practice, which she couples with a genuine care and concern for her patients’ overall wellbeing. Her staff is also extremely warm and kind, making the entire experience of 'going to the dentist' something to look forward to and surprisingly pleasant. We can't image going anywhere else for dental care!"
"I have been a patient of Dr. Theodore for over 10 years. From the moment I entered her office, I felt very comfortable. I appreciate the high level of professionalism from Mary, Cathy and Dr. Theodore. Dr. Theodore explains each step and procedure in a caring manner. Dr. Theodore truly loves her practice and it is reflected in the relaxing and extremely clean environment."
"I travel to see Dr. Theodore. She listens to my needs and provides the best work. I have been to many dentists in different states and her work is superior."
"I have been a patient of Dr. Theodore’s for as long as I can remember. Every visit has always been on schedule and any required services from a cleaning to X-rays is professional and personal."
"It started with the toy box and continues with the great care everyone gives our family. They are our special treat!"