Periodontal Care
About Periodontal Care
Periodontal disease — commonly known as gum disease — is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. At Smiles on Enterprise in Oak Brook, IL, Dr. Jessica Reddy offers comprehensive periodontal care ranging from early-stage gingivitis treatment to deep cleaning procedures for more advanced cases. Treating gum disease promptly is essential not only for your oral health but for your overall systemic health — research consistently links periodontal disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other serious conditions.
The Periodontal Care Process
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your gum tissue, including measuring periodontal pockets — the spaces between your teeth and gums. For early-stage gum disease, a professional cleaning and improved home care routine are often sufficient to get things back on track. For more advanced cases, Dr. Reddy recommends a deep cleaning — also known as scaling and root planing — which goes well beyond a routine cleaning. During this procedure, Dr. Reddy removes tartar and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to help gum tissue reattach and prevent future buildup. It is performed under local anesthesia for complete comfort. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and confirm the disease is stabilized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the signs of gum disease?
A: Common signs include red, swollen, or tender gums; bleeding when brushing or flossing; persistent bad breath; receding gums; loose teeth; or changes in your bite. Many patients have no symptoms in the early stages, which is why regular checkups are critical.
Q: Is gum disease reversible?
A: Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is fully reversible with professional treatment and consistent home care. More advanced stages can be managed and stabilized but not fully reversed.
Q: Is scaling and root planing painful?
A: The procedure is performed with local anesthesia so you will not feel pain during treatment. Some soreness and sensitivity in the days following is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Q: How can I prevent gum disease?
A: Brush twice daily, floss once daily, avoid tobacco use, eat a balanced diet, and maintain regular professional cleanings at least twice a year.
Cost of Periodontal Care
Scaling and root planing at Smiles on Enterprise typically ranges from $200 to $400 per quadrant. Most insurance plans provide partial or full coverage for periodontal treatment. Our team will confirm your benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.
How Long Does It Take?
Scaling and root planing is typically completed over two appointments — one per side of the mouth — lasting 60 to 90 minutes each. A follow-up is scheduled 4 to 6 weeks later to assess healing.
Post-Care Instructions
- Some soreness, swelling, and sensitivity is normal for several days after treatment.
- Rinse with warm salt water 2 to 3 times daily to reduce inflammation.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently around treated areas.
- Avoid tobacco products, which significantly impair healing.
- Take any prescribed antibiotics or medications as directed.
- Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery.
