Periodontal Disease Treatment

Your gums are a lot more important than you might think; they support your teeth, protect your bite, and contribute to your overall oral health. As periodontal disease progresses, resulting in gum recession, the teeth lose some of their natural protective barrier, and the roots may be left exposed to infection and damage. Periodontal treatment successfully stops infection and restores stability to teeth and gums.

Restoring Comfort and Protecting Your Gums

Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria accumulates under the gumline, causing inflammation to the soft tissues that surround the teeth. If left untreated, it may lead to gum recession, sensitivity, deepening pockets, loss of bone support, and tooth loss over time.

Depending on your need, treatment can include scaling and root planing to remove bacteria below the gums, localized medication, bite adjustments, and ongoing periodontal maintenance visits. When the gums recede enough to expose the roots or the tissue thins out, gum grafting may be recommended to strengthen and protect the area. A small graft is positioned and secured where the tissue has receded, and as it heals, it bonds with the natural gums, helping to restore coverage, reduce sensitivity, and support a healthier smile.

Non-Invasive Gum Surgery - Gums can recede leaving unsightly gaps in the gumline, correcting this non-invasively is a specialty of ours.

Long-Term Support and Follow-Up

After treatment, Dr. Tokunaga provides guidance on gentle brushing, professional maintenance visits, and monitoring areas prone to recession. Consistent care helps maintain gum health and treatment results. If you have noticed gum recession, sensitivity, or bleeding gums, schedule a periodontal evaluation with Dr. Tokunaga in Arlington Heights today.