Our Services

Periodontal Disease

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
  • Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
  • New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
  • Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
  • Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
  • Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
  • Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
  • Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Related Procedures

Signs & Symptoms of Periodontal Disease Mouth - Body Connection Diagnosis Treatment LANAP (Laser Assisted New-Attachment Porcedure) Periodontal Scaling & Root Planing Maintenance
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I came in for a cleaning and I am the worst patient ever. Your staff has always been very kind to me. Not only do they take extra care in my treatment but on my very first visit Dr. Baptist (and staff) did their very best to put me at ease. After my visit Dr. Baptist called my home later that evening to check on me. I had only gone in for a cleaning. I go every 6 months for my check up and each time I get more relaxed. Thank you Dr. Baptist and staff.
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Maureen R.
This group of dentists are certainly the best I have ever known. Their breadth of experience, always up to date options and care, and personal, compassionate approach combine for not just a pain free experience, but also a welcoming and relaxing one. I have had the pleasure of being treated by each of them and am hard pressed to choose a favorite. You can't miss with Baptists and their staff.
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Dr Vicki C.
I love coming to you guys! Everyone is so friendly, and check ups are painless. You're the only dental practice I've ever known, and I plan on keeping it that way.
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Nora L
As usual everyone on the staff is always very personable and professional. All I can say is that I wish that I were working in an office as great as yours.
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John G.
Dr.Baptist has been my dentist for over twenty years. I look forward to my visits, because I know my experiences will be pleasant. i, actually, enjoy visiting my dentist.
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Rozanne M.
If you want to feel like family, this is the place to go and get your dental work done. We are currently looking to move to Western Suburbs and in no way plan to change our dentists. The entire staff is great. Dr. David Baptist is always on top of technology for new procedures/machines. Now that he has his sons along with him, the technology continues to advance. I now get email and text notifications a few days before appointment to confirm and for you old fashioned folks, Mary is always a pleasure to speak to in front office.
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Luis A.
I've come in three times now for my TMD issue and love Dr. Baptist. He is very warm and personable, as well as patient when explaining things I don't understand. He clearly loves what he does, and seems eager to explain the physiology behind dental issues. Honestly, my experience with him and the staff here is probably the best I've ever had, and I'm happy not to feel like I'm not still shopping around for a dental office that meets my standards. Keep up the good work! Thank you!
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Brandi M.
I have been a patient of Baptist Family Dental for over 25 years. The professionalism and personal concern shown to patients is exceptional.
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Rob C.
I have been coming to this office for over 20 years for a variety of dental appointments as well as my 3 children--Wonderful experiences--every single staff person is wonderful from Mary in the front to the dentists!!! Highly recommended!
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Kathy H.
I have been going to Dr. Baptist for years now. I have had quite of few other dentists before Dr.(David) Baptist & I will assure everyone that I talk or talked to I do tell them that Dr. Baptist is like family to me.

But it's not just Dr. Baptist, it's his staff also. Mary that works up in the front desk. And Deb, Dr. Baptist's assistant. And my personal dental hygienist, she is so sweet! They are all so very sweet & caring.

I have been sick for a long time & the whole Baptist crew always asks about how I am doing. Even if they call for someone else in my family. And when I had my thyroid surgery, the only non family member that sent me a get well card, was the Dr. Baptist crew.

I do not like going to the dentist, but I sure don't mind visiting Dr. Baptist & crew! Thanks for everything guys! Love all of yas like family!
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Amy G.

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