Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions adults face, and the good news is it is treatable. At First Class Smiles in Des Plaines, IL, our team helps patients at every stage of gum disease, from the earliest signs of inflammation to more advanced infection. If your gums bleed when you brush, feel sore, or look like they are pulling away from your teeth, do not wait. Early treatment protects your teeth, your bone, and your overall health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and gums. When plaque is not removed through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Tartar irritates your gums and creates a cycle of inflammation and infection that, over time, damages the bone supporting your teeth.
Gum disease develops in two main stages:
- Gingivitis: The earliest and reversible stage. Your gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this point, no bone or tissue damage has occurred.
- Periodontitis: The advanced stage. Infection spreads below the gum line, destroying the bone and connective tissue that anchor your teeth. Without treatment, teeth become loose, and tooth loss follows.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Several factors contribute to gum disease. Understanding your risk helps you and your dentist develop a prevention and treatment plan that fits your life.
- Poor oral hygiene, infrequent brushing, and flossing
- Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco
- Diabetes and other systemic health conditions
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications that cause dry mouth or gum overgrowth
- Crooked or crowded teeth that are harder to clean
- A family history of periodontal disease
- A weakened immune system
Warning Signs of Gum Disease You Should Not Ignore
Gum disease often progresses without pain, which is why regular dental visits matter. Watch for these signs and contact our Des Plaines, IL office if you notice any of them:
- Gums that bleed during or after brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
- Persistent bad breath that does not go away with brushing
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from your teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Visible pus between your teeth and gums
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- Certain medications reduce saliva flow or cause gum overgrowth, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive.
- Genetic predisposition may increase vulnerability to periodontal disease despite good oral hygiene habits.
- Stress impacts immune function, making it more difficult for the body to fight gum infections.
- Poor nutrition deprives the body of essential vitamins and minerals needed to maintain healthy gum tissue.
At First Class Smiles, we evaluate both oral and systemic factors to create a targeted treatment plan.
Gum Disease Treatment Options at First Class Smiles
Our team creates a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition. We use proven, effective methods to stop the infection and restore your gums' health.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
This is the primary non-surgical treatment for gum disease. Our hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Then we smooth the root surfaces so your gums reattach to your teeth and bacteria have fewer places to cling. Most patients complete this treatment in two appointments, one side of the mouth at a time.
Antibiotic Therapy
After a deep cleaning, we place antibiotic medication directly into the gum pockets. This targets bacteria that remain below the gum line and supports healing in areas where infection persists. This approach works alongside your cleaning to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of the infection returning between your follow-up visits.
Periodontal Maintenance
After active treatment, your gums need closer monitoring. We schedule cleaning visits every 3 to 4 months instead of every 6. Each visit allows our team to remove new buildup, measure your gum pocket depths, and catch any early signs of recurrence before they develop into a larger problem that requires more intensive care.
Surgical Referral
When gum disease is severe and non-surgical treatment does not fully resolve the infection, we refer you to a trusted periodontist. Procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafting address advanced bone and tissue loss. Our team coordinates your care throughout the entire process so you always know what to expect next.
Meet Your Dentist
Victor J. Grandinetti, DDS
Dr. Victor Grandinetti earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School in 1998 and completed advanced training in TMD and Orofacial Pain at The Dawson Academy. He is a preferred Invisalign provider with extensive experience in All-on-4 dental implants and full-mouth restoration. Named one of America's Best Dentists in 2021, Dr. Grandinetti is an active member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He believes patient education is the foundation of lasting oral and total body health.
Paul Morrison, DDS
Dr. Paul Morrison earned his Bachelor of Science from Notre Dame and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Maryland in 2011. He holds a sedation licensure through the Oregon AGD and completed a two-year intensive implant training maxi-course under leading clinicians in the field. Dr. Morrison is an active member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. His focus on sedation and implant dentistry allows him to deliver comfortable, life-changing results for patients with complex dental needs.
Why Gum Health Affects More Than Your Smile
Chronic gum infection introduces bacteria directly into your bloodstream. Over time, that bacterial exposure puts stress on systems throughout your body and is associated with:
- Heart disease and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Poorly controlled blood sugar in people with diabetes
- Premature birth and low birth weight in pregnant women
- Respiratory infections, particularly in older adults
- Rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups
Treating gum disease in Des Plaines, IL, is not only about saving teeth. It is an investment in your overall health.
Cost of Gum Disease Treatment in Des Plaines, ILWhy Choose First Class Smiles for Gum Disease in Des Plaines, IL?
The cost of treatment depends on the severity of your gum disease, the number of teeth involved, and whether surgical care is needed. Below is a general estimate for common gum disease treatments. Your actual cost will be confirmed after your examination. We accept most major dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options.
| Treatment | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
| Routine Cleaning (Gingivitis Stage) | $75 - $200 | Covered or partially covered by most dental insurance plans |
| Scaling and Root Planing (per quadrant) | $150 - $350 | Most plans cover 50%-80%; 4 quadrants are typical for a full mouth |
| Full-Mouth Deep Cleaning (all 4 quadrants) | $600 - $1,400 | Cost varies by severity and number of teeth involved |
| Antibiotic Therapy (localized placement) | $75 - $150 per site | Often recommended alongside deep cleaning |
| Periodontal Maintenance Visit | $100 - $300 per visit | Every 3-4 months after active treatment |
| Surgical Referral (Flap Surgery, Bone Graft) | $1,000 - $3,000+ | Reserved for advanced periodontitis; specialist fees apply |
These are estimated ranges only. Your exact cost will depend on your diagnosis, insurance coverage, and treatment plan. Contact our office for a personalized estimate.
Why Patients Choose First Class Smiles for Gum Disease in Des Plaines, IL
Patients across Des Plaines and the surrounding area trust our practice for periodontal care because we combine clinical skill with a patient-first approach.
- We take time to explain your diagnosis and treatment options in plain language.
- We use modern diagnostic tools to detect gum disease at its earliest stage.
- We coordinate with specialists when advanced care is needed.
- We work with most major dental insurance plans to maximize your benefits.
- We offer flexible scheduling, including appointments for working adults and families.
- Our team treats every patient with respect, patience, and genuine care.
Schedule Your Gum Disease Evaluation Today
Your gum health cannot wait. The team at First Class Smiles is ready to help you stop gum disease in its tracks and restore your oral health with care that is thorough, clear, and built around you.
Call us at (847) 264-4152 or stop by our office at 780 Lee St., 2nd Floor, Des Plaines, IL 60016. Our team will review your symptoms, answer your questions, and get you scheduled at a time that works for you.
FAQs
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is fully reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care. Periodontitis is not reversible, but it is controllable. With the right treatment and consistent maintenance visits, we stop the disease from progressing and protect the teeth and bone you still have.
Does gum disease treatment hurt?
Scaling and root planing are performed under local anesthesia, so you do not feel pain during the procedure. You will feel some tenderness and sensitivity in your gums for a few days afterward. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft diet help most patients stay comfortable during recovery.
How long does gum disease treatment take?
A standard deep cleaning takes two appointments, each lasting about one hour. You complete one side of the mouth at each visit. After your active treatment is done, you return for periodontal maintenance every three to four months. The total length of your care depends on the severity of your condition.
Can gum disease come back after treatment?
Yes. Gum disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. That is why periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months are essential. These visits allow us to remove new buildup, check your gum pocket depths, and catch any signs of recurrence before they become a larger problem.
What happens if I leave gum disease untreated?
Untreated gum disease progresses steadily. The infection destroys the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Over time, teeth become loose, shift out of position, and eventually fall out. Beyond your mouth, untreated periodontal disease worsens systemic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Treatment now prevents far more complex and costly problems later.
Dental Financing Options At First Class Smiles
Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; please call at (847) 264-4152 for clarity.
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