What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene, though other conditions can intensify it. Daily brushing and flossing and regular checkups at Corner Stone Dental are the best ways to prevent periodontal disease.

What’s the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis is an early stage of periodontal disease — at this stage, the disease can often be reversed without extensive professional treatment. Once the disease progresses to the periodontitis stage, you’ll require dental treatment to restore your oral health.

What if I leave my gum disease untreated?

Untreated gum disease can lead to soreness, bleeding, swelling, bad breath, and eventually, tooth loss. Once gum disease progresses beyond gingivitis, it can’t be reversed without professional help. Your gum disease won’t simply go away on its own and may worsen.

What’s the best mouthwash to prevent gum disease?

It’s best to use an ADA-approved mouthwash — just look for their seal of approval on any mouthwash you buy. If you’d like a personal recommendation, Dr. Wilson or Dr. Banker at Corner Stone Dental can advise you.

Periodontal Disease | Swansea, IL Dentist Near You

Advanced Periodontal Care with Swansea, IL Dentists You Can Trust

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, affects nearly half of adults over 30. It occurs when plaque and bacteria build up along the gum line, causing inflammation, bleeding, and, in severe cases, tooth loss. At Corner Stone Dental, our Swansea dentists, Dr. Randall E. Wilson and Dr. Lauren B. Wilson provide quality care to help patients maintain healthy gums and a strong smile.

We proudly serve Swansea and surrounding communities including Belleville, Shiloh, O’Fallon, and nearby neighborhoods. Our goal is to deliver personalized treatments that address your specific oral health needs while ensuring comfort and lasting results. To learn more about gum disease treatments, contact our Swansea dental office by calling (618) 236-0501.

Top Periodontal Care at Corner Stone Dental

At Corner Stone Dental, our team prioritizes prevention, early detection, and advanced treatments for gum disease. From routine deep cleanings to advanced procedures like laser therapy and soft tissue grafting, we provide solutions tailored to every stage of periodontal disease.

Our patient, Dave A., shared:

“Dr. Wilson and his staff have been taking care of my oral needs for 37 years and he is an outstanding dentist with a very professional and helpful staff. I trust him and would recommend him to anyone looking for a dentist.”

Our office uses the latest technology and techniques for effective periodontal treatment in a comfortable environment.

What is Periodontal Disease Treatment?

Periodontal disease treatment encompasses a range of dental procedures designed to prevent, manage, and reverse the effects of gum disease. Gum disease occurs when plaque and bacteria build up along the gum line, causing inflammation, infection, and, in severe cases, damage to the bones and tissues that support your teeth.

Types of Periodontitis

The early stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. At this stage, the condition can be easily treated. But if your gum disease advances to the periodontitis stage, it can devastate your smile. Types of periodontitis include:

Chronic periodontitis — Inflammation within supporting tissues causes deep pockets and gum recession, making your teeth appear longer. This is the most common type of gum disease, with the gums progressively losing attachment.
Aggressive periodontitis — This version is essentially the same as the chronic type, but it progresses more rapidly. You’re likely to require surgical intervention with this type of gum disease.
Necrotizing periodontitis — A rare version of the disease, this type is more likely among people who suffer from HIV, immunosuppression, malnutrition, chronic stress, or those who smoke. With necrotizing periodontitis, tissue death occurs in the periodontal ligament, gingival tissues, and alveolar bone.
Periodontitis caused by systemic disease — Periodontitis can also be a symptom of another condition that’s affecting your body. In these cases, even if you make sure to clear all the plaque off your teeth, your periodontal disease can still intensify.

Periodontal Disease Treatments Offered

Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)

Deep cleaning is a cornerstone treatment for patients with early to moderate gum disease. Unlike a regular cleaning, this procedure reaches below the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause inflammation.

Scaling: Removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and below the gum line.
Root Planing: Smooths the tooth root to help gums reattach and heal properly.

Benefits include reduced bleeding, improved gum health, and prevention of further damage. Patients often notice fresher breath and healthier gums shortly after treatment.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a modern, minimally invasive solution for treating moderate to advanced periodontal disease.

Uses focused laser energy to remove diseased tissue without harming healthy gums.
Promotes faster healing and reduces bleeding and discomfort.
Can be combined with deep cleaning for enhanced results.

This treatment is ideal for patients who want effective gum disease management with minimal downtime.

Soft Tissue Grafting

Gum recession exposes tooth roots, which can lead to sensitivity and increased risk of decay. Soft tissue grafting restores lost gum tissue and protects teeth from further damage.

Tissue is carefully harvested from the patient or a donor source.
Grafted tissue is attached to areas of recession to rebuild the gum line.
Enhances both oral health and aesthetic appearance of your smile.

Soft tissue grafting is often part of a comprehensive periodontal care plan for patients with advanced gum recession.

How to Know Which Periodontal Treatment is Right for You

Determining the right periodontal treatment depends on the stage of gum disease, your oral health, and your personal needs. At Corner Stone Dental, our Swansea dentists take a careful, personalized approach to ensure the most effective care for each patient.

Assessing Your Gum Health

The first step is a thorough examination. This includes checking for gum inflammation, bleeding, recession, and loose teeth. X-rays or advanced imaging may be used to evaluate bone health and detect hidden infection.

Matching Treatment to Your Needs

Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing): Best for early to moderate gum disease. It removes plaque and tartar below the gum line and smooths roots to promote healing.
Laser Therapy: Ideal for moderate to advanced cases. This minimally invasive procedure targets diseased tissue, reduces bacteria, and promotes faster recovery.
Soft Tissue Grafting: Recommended when gum recession exposes tooth roots. Grafting restores lost tissue, protects teeth, and improves the appearance of your smile.

Personalized Care Plan

After evaluation, we create a custom treatment plan tailored to your condition. Some patients may need a single procedure, while others benefit from a combination of treatments. We also guide patients on oral hygiene and maintenance to prevent recurrence and maintain long-term gum health.

Schedule a consultation at Corner Stone Dental by calling (618) 236-0501 to discover the best periodontal treatment for your gums and enjoy a healthier, more confident smile.

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease

Preventing gum disease starts with good habits and regular dental care. Dr. Randall E. Wilson and Dr. Lauren B. Wilson recommend:

Brush and Floss Daily: Remove plaque along the gum line and between teeth.
Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and exams catch early signs of gum disease.
Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet, and manage chronic conditions like diabetes.
Watch for Symptoms: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums and persistent bad breath are warning signs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gum disease often develops gradually, so early signs can be subtle. Common symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, sensitive teeth, loose teeth, and discomfort while chewing. Some patients may notice changes in how their teeth fit together when biting. Routine dental exams and periodontal screenings with Swansea, IL dentists like Dr. Randall E. Wilson and Dr. Lauren B. Wilson are essential for early detection. Catching gum disease early allows for less invasive treatment and better long-term results.

Most periodontal procedures are performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Patients typically feel little to no pain during treatment. Advanced treatments, such as laser therapy, are minimally invasive and designed to reduce swelling and speed healing. Some post-procedure soreness or tenderness is normal, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and proper home care. Our team at Corner Stone Dental ensures every patient’s comfort throughout their treatment.

Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure and your individual healing. Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) often allow patients to return to normal activities the same day, though gums may feel slightly sensitive for a few days. Laser therapy typically has a short recovery period of a few days, with minimal discomfort. Soft tissue grafting, used for gum recession, usually requires 1–2 weeks for healing, with careful attention to oral hygiene and diet.

Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be reversed with professional treatment and improved daily oral care, including brushing, flossing, and antimicrobial rinses. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) cannot always be fully reversed, but it can be effectively managed. Treatments like deep cleaning, laser therapy, and soft tissue grafting help control infection, prevent further damage, and preserve teeth. Consistent dental care and home hygiene are essential to maintaining healthy gums over time.

Trusted Gum Disease Care at Our Swansea Dental Office!

Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, confident smile. Corner Stone Dental offers comprehensive periodontal disease treatment, including deep cleaning, laser therapy, and soft tissue grafting. Dr. Randall E. Wilson and Dr. Lauren B. Wilson are dedicated to helping patients prevent and manage gum disease while maintaining comfort and long-term results. Don’t wait, protect your oral health and schedule an appointment with the best dentists in Swansea by calling (618) 236-0501.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease in Swansea, IL