Periodontics Services at Ivanhoe Dental Group

What is Periodontics?

Periodontics is a dental specialty that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various conditions that affect the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. 

Understanding Gum Disease

Periodontics is primarily concerned with the treatment of gum disease, which can range from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more serious conditions like periodontitis. Gingivitis, the first stage of gum infection, is characterized as red and swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis, if left untreated can progress to periodontitis. This is a more severe form of gum disease which can cause irreversible damage.

The Role of Periodontists

Periodontists specialize in gum disease and other conditions that affect the supporting structures of teeth. They receive additional training after dental school to become periodontal experts. They are also skilled at performing procedures like deep cleanings, periodontal surgery, and gum grafting.


Our practice in Riverdale, IL is led by a team of experienced dentists including Dr. Salem and Dr. Shah. Our periodontists have the expertise to identify and treat periodontal conditions and provide treatments to maintain your gums' health and integrity.

Dr. Salem - LANAP and Bad Breath

Dr. Salem - LANAP and Gum Disease

Do You Have Any Questions?

Feel Free To Give Us A Call At (708) 849-8627

Smiling middle age woman at the dentist for preventative dental care

Gum Disease

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease or gingivitis) is an ongoing bacterial infection in the gums and bone around your teeth. It is an “ongoing” infection because your immune system cannot overcome the bacteria and heal the infection. That means you should not ignore this condition since it will not clear up on its own. It will, in fact, get worse and may permanently damage your teeth if left untreated. 

Symptoms of Gum Disease

  • Red or swollen gums.
  • Gums bleeding.
  • Receding gums.
  • Bad breath.
  • Sore or itchy gums.
  • Protruding or separating teeth.
  • Pain when chewing.
  • Loss of teeth.


If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to schedule a dental appointment right away. Our professional dentists will be able to verify if you have gum disease and let you know what your treatment options are.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Several factors can increase your risk of getting gum disease. The most common factors are: 


  • Plaque buildup.
  • Smoking or chewing tobacco.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Lack of proper nutrition.
  • Crooked teeth.


Thankfully, these factors can be easily fixed. In addition to taking care of your overall health and nutrition, routine visits to your dentist for plaque removal and dental checkups can help prevent gum disease. 


Ready to make your appointment? Schedule online or call us at (708) 849-8627 today!

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Periodontics Services

  • Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation

    Our team will perform a thorough periodontal examination to determine the health of your supporting structures and gums. This involves measuring pocket depths and evaluating gum recessiveness, as well as checking for signs of inflammation. We can detect any gum disease through comprehensive evaluations and create a treatment plan that is tailored to you.

  • Gingivitis Treatment

    Early gum disease is marked by inflamed gums and bleeding when brushing or flossing. Our periodontists offer effective treatment for gingivitis. This includes professional cleanings, as well as guidance on how to improve oral hygiene. We can stop gingivitis from progressing to more serious forms of gum disease by treating it promptly.

  • Periodontitis Treatment

    Periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease, requires a comprehensive treatment plan to prevent further damage. Periodontists provide a variety of treatment options to treat periodontitis. These include periodontal surgery and antibiotics. Our treatment plans are tailored to each patient's needs and gum health.

  • Gum Recession Treatment

    When the gums pull away from the teeth and expose the roots, the risk of decay and sensitivity increases. Our periodontists are experts in gum recession treatments, including gum grafting to restore lost tissue and improve your smile's appearance and health.

  • Dental Implants

    The temporomandibular joint is what connects your jaw to your skull. At this time, we do not treat TMJ disorders, but we can provide you with a mouth guard. If you are experiencing limited jaw movement or pain in your TMJ area, we would be happy to refer you to someone who can handle this issue. 

  • Periodontal Care

    It's important to keep up with regular follow-up appointments after undergoing periodontal therapy to ensure long-term success. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are offered by our periodontists to remove tartar and plaque below the gumline, and to monitor your gum health. These appointments are essential for preventing a recurrence and maintaining the results of treatment.

  • Patient Support and Education

    Our periodontal approach is built around education. Our periodontists educate their patients on the importance of good gum health and the proper techniques for oral hygiene. They also discuss lifestyle factors that can impact gum health. We encourage our patients to be active in their dental health, and we provide them with ongoing support and guidance during their treatment.

What Patients Are Saying...

Why Choose Ivanhoe Dental Group for Your Periodontal Needs?

  • Experienced Periodontists

    Ivanhoe Dental Group's team of experienced periodontists is composed of highly qualified professionals who have extensive experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing various gum diseases. Our periodontists are committed to continuing education and advanced training to ensure that they provide the best possible treatment to our patients.

  • Comprehensive Approach

    Our comprehensive periodontal treatment addresses not only symptoms but also the causes behind gum disease. Our periodontists perform thorough evaluations to accurately diagnose gum diseases and create personalized treatment plans that are tailored to the unique needs and goals of each patient.

  • State-of-the-Art Technology

    We use state-of-the-art technology at Ivanhoe Dental Group to provide precise and effective treatment. Our cutting-edge technology, from digital imaging to minimally invasive surgery, enhances the accuracy, efficiency, comfort, and safety of our periodontal treatments.

  • Patient-Centered Care

    In everything we do, we prioritize the comfort, safety, and satisfaction of our patients. Our compassionate and friendly staff creates a supportive and welcoming environment that allows patients to feel comfortable throughout their treatment. We listen to the concerns of our patients, answer any questions they have, and help them overcome any anxiety about their periodontal treatments.

  • Collaborative Approach

    Collaboration plays a key role in achieving optimal results in periodontal treatment. Our periodontists work with other restorative dentists and other specialists to provide coordinated, comprehensive care for our clients. This multidisciplinary approach provides continuity of care and superior results for patients.

  • Resources for Education

    We believe patient education is crucial to maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Our periodontists believe patients should have the resources and knowledge to control their gum health. Our periodontists provide patients with educational materials, oral care instructions, and lifestyle suggestions to maintain healthy gums in between appointments.

  • Exceptional Results

    Our ultimate goal at Ivanhoe Dental Group is to help patients achieve beautiful gums and a smile that will last a lifetime. We strive to deliver exceptional results, exceeding our patients' expectations and restoring their confidence, oral health, and function.

Do not let gum disease compromise your smile and oral health. Call Ivanhoe Dental Group to set up a periodontal assessment with one of our periodontists. We will assess your gums, discuss treatment options, and work with you to create a customized plan to restore and maintain your oral health. Here's where your journey to healthy gums begins!

Schedule Your Periodontal Exam Today!