Treatment for gum disease in bloomington

Periodontal (gum) disease is a common oral condition that will affect nearly 80 percent of American adults at some point in their life. It can range from mild (Gingivitis) to severe (Advanced Periodontitis).

Gingivitis

This is first stage of periodontal disease and the mildest form. It begins with a buildup of plaque that harbors bacteria between the teeth and under the gumline. The bacteria results in an inflammation of the gums. You are likely to notice your gums bleeding easily, especially while brushing. If you observe this, it is important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mike Milligan and the team at Eastland Dental Center as soon as possible.

Gingivitis can be reversed with proper care. Treatment typically includes a thorough cleaning that will remove all built up tartar and plaque from your teeth. Dr. Milligan may recommend more frequent routine checkups and professional cleanings along with changes to your home hygiene routine. Treating gingivitis early is vital because it can progress to periodontitis, which causes irreversible damage and can only be controlled and prevented from progressing.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease. When the bacteria that caused the gingivitis are not treated, the disease begins to damage first the gum tissue and then the bone surrounding the teeth. As this tissue begins to recede, there is an increase in the plaque and bacteria. This increase can result in further damage to the bone, and without treatment, the teeth can become so loose that they are eventually lost. Periodontitis is the number one cause of tooth loss.

Although, periodontitis cannot be reversed, it can be controlled and its progression stopped. In the past treating periodontitis often required highly invasive techniques such as gum surgery. Dr. Milligan and the team at Eastland Dental Center offer their patients Perio Protect to help control periodontitis.

Perio Protect uses custom-made trays that hold medication to treat the gum disease. The trays fit snugly over the teeth and push the medication between the gums and teeth where the harmful bacteria are located. Each case is different, and Dr. Milligan will create a custom treatment plan for you. Perio Protect does not take the place of routine dental care or oral hygiene; it is used in conjunction to improve the health of the gums.

The earlier you treat gum disease the better. Although periodontitis cannot be reversed as gingivitis can, the progression can often be stopped. Prompt treatment from Dr. Milligan and the team at Eastland Dental Center are vital to more than just your oral health. Gum disease has been linked to blood clots, diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory disease. If you think you may be suffering from gum disease, give us a call at, and schedule your appointment. Our office is located at 1404 Eastland Drive, Suite 101, Bloomington, IL 61701.

Website: http://www.eastlanddental.com/ http://www.eastlanddental.com/gum-disease/

Dr. Mike Milligan is a native of Bloomington/ Normal. After graduating 3rd in his class at University High School, he graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Houston.