What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and surrounding tissue that supports your teeth. It’s extremely common—and one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. At our Park Ridge dental office, we provide comprehensive treatments to help prevent and manage gum disease, ensuring long-lasting oral health.
In its earliest stage (gingivitis), gum disease may cause mild bleeding or inflammation. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the infection reaches deeper beneath the gumline, causing bone loss, gum recession, and even tooth mobility.
- Common signs of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession or “long teeth”
- Tenderness or discomfort when chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term damage.
Why Treating Gum Disease Matters for Your Whole Body
Gum disease isn’t just a dental issue—it’s a whole-body health concern. Numerous studies have linked untreated periodontal infections to serious medical conditions, including:
Heart disease and stroke
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory illness
- Increased risk of Alzheimer’s
- Pregnancy issues such as low birth weight or preterm labor
By managing your oral health, you’re protecting more than your smile—you’re supporting your entire well-being.
Comfortable, Modern Gum Disease Treatment
At our Park Ridge dental office, we believe that gum disease treatment doesn’t have to be painful, intimidating, or disruptive. We use effective, evidence-based techniques to treat infection while keeping your comfort and long-term health in focus.
Perio Protect: A Gentle, At-Home Support for Gum Health
Perio Protect is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive system designed to fight gum disease between dental visits. It uses custom-made trays that deliver a powerful antimicrobial gel deep below the gums—right where brushing and flossing can’t reach.
The trays are worn at home for just a few minutes each day, making it easy to stay on top of your gum health. Perio Protect works in harmony with your professional cleanings to control bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote long-term healing
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from beneath the gumline. This deep cleaning helps smooth the tooth roots, allowing gum tissue to heal and reattach properly.
When diagnosed in its moderate or early advanced stages, gum disease often responds well to SRP. It’s one of the most common and effective ways to manage an active infection without surgery.
Benefits of scaling and root planing include:
- Thorough removal of bacteria and buildup
- Reduced gum inflammation and bleeding
- Slowing or halting of disease progression
- Promotes healing and reattachment of gums
We may recommend this treatment alone or in combination with Perio Protect for enhanced at-home care and ongoing maintenance.
Benefits of Perio Protect
Patients love Perio Protect because it’s comfortable, convenient, and incredibly effective. Some of the most appreciated benefits include:
- Non-surgical and pain-free gum treatment
- Easy at-home use in just minutes a day
- Helps eliminate harmful bacteria below the gum line
- Freshens breath and reduces bleeding or swelling
- Prevents the need for more invasive procedures
- Supports ongoing oral and systemic health
If you’ve struggled with gum disease or are looking for a preventive solution that fits your lifestyle, Perio Protect may be an ideal option.
Dr. Kuchta’s Approach to Gum Care
Although Dr. Kuchta is not a periodontist, he does offer advanced periodontal treatment as part of his general dental care. At Complete Health Dentistry of Park Ridge, our goal is to help you avoid gum surgery when possible by catching issues early and treating them with the most modern, patient-friendly tools available.
Whether it’s laser-assisted deep cleanings or non-invasive tray therapy with Perio Protect, Dr. Kuchta and our team prioritize comfort, education, and proactive care. For complex cases, we also collaborate with trusted specialists to ensure every patient receives the care they need.
Do You Need Gum Disease Treatment?
Gum disease often develops slowly—and without obvious symptoms at first. If you’re experiencing any of the following, we encourage you to schedule a periodontal evaluation:
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Gum tenderness or swelling
- Chronic bad breath
- Gums pulling away from your teeth
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted
The sooner we identify a problem, the more options we have for conservative treatment and long-term success.
Schedule Your Gum Health Consultation Today
If you’re concerned about your gum health or looking for a minimally invasive solution to treat gum disease, we’re here to help. With options like Perio Protect and soft tissue laser therapy, you don’t have to choose between comfort and results.
Contact Complete Health Dentistry of Park Ridge today at (847) 696-3240 to restore the health of your gums—and protect the health of your whole body.
