September 27, 2023

Gum disease is the most prevalent dental problem affecting people of all age groups globally. Periodontitis is the most advanced stage of gum disease that is preceded by gingivitis (early-stage disease). Periodontitis leads to loss of attachment and eventual tooth loss. 

Our dentist in Summit, IL, offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment of periodontal disease to improve your oral form, function, and aesthetics. 

Understanding periodontal disease 

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition affecting the supporting structures surrounding your teeth, which is the periodontium. This comprises the gums, PDL (periodontal ligament), cementum, and the alveolar bone. Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss. 

What factors are responsible for periodontal disease?

The buildup of excess plaque is the prime factor for periodontal disease. Plaque is a thin, sticky film that adheres to the tooth surface, which, when not removed properly, can lead to increased bacterial colonization. These microorganisms release harmful toxins that damage the soft tissues and impair your immune system to fight infections.

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing periodontal disease, such as:

• Genetic predisposition
• Poor oral hygiene
• Hormonal imbalance as seen during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause
• Unhealthy lifestyle habits like tobacco use, and smoking
• Stress
• Obesity (being overweight)
• Certain autoimmune diseases like lupus
• Diabetes 
• Heart or respiratory disease

What are the most classic symptoms of periodontal disease?

The most striking features of periodontal disease are as follows:

• Reddish purple gums
• Swollen and tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily while brushing or flossing
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Unpleasant or metallic taste
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth

What are the treatment options for periodontal disease?

Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition. 

Treatment options include:

• Scaling and root planing
  • Professional dental cleaning once every 6 months can prevent plaque formation.
  • It also helps to detect early signs of gum disease and halt the disease progression.
• Medications 
  • These include oral antibiotics for severe infection or antimicrobial mouth rinse.
• Tissue regeneration
  • This treatment encourages the growth of gum tissues through grafting.
  • A biocompatible layer or membrane is inserted into the affected area to promote regeneration of the tissues.
• Pocket elimination surgery
  • This is a flap surgery that reduces the size of the gingival pocket between the gums and the teeth.
• Dental implants 
  • Loss of teeth due to periodontal disease can be effectively replaced using dental implants.
  • These act as an anchorage for crown placement. 

Periodontal disease is common and reversible in the early stages. Seek timely dental help to prevent further deterioration of your oral health.

Today’s blog is for all the sports lover’s out there! We know how much you love your rugby, cricket, netball, and all the exciting activities that keep you moving. But let’s face it, with great sports comes the occasional bump, bruise, or even something more serious, but let’s try to keep today’s discussion a little more light-hearted. We’re here today to uncover and discuss common sports injuries in Christchurch and how a sports physiotherapist can be your ultimate teammate in diagnosing, treating, and preventing them.

Here at Fixed Physio, we help recreational and professional athletes treat and recover from sports injuries in Christchurch. Visit our website to schedule an appointment!

The Ankle Twist 

Ah, the classic ankle twist – a move every athlete unwittingly performs at least once in their career. Whether you’re pivoting on the rugby field or sprinting on the cricket pitch, ankle sprains are incredibly common in sports, and can range from minor twinges to more severe ligament damage. The good news? With the right guidance from a Christchurch physiotherapist, you can bounce back quicker than ever.

Hamstring High Jinks

If you’ve experienced a pulled hamstring before, you’ll know it’s quite a painful topic to discuss, no pun intended. But if you’ve yet to have your hamstring fail you, imagine your hamstring as a rubber band and suddenly having it snap, typically at the most inconvenient of times, like when you’re just about to score a try. Hamstring injuries are notorious for sneaking up when you least expect them. However, our experienced physiotherapists in Christchurch have seen it all and can tailor a recovery plan that gets you back in action, stronger and more flexible than before.

Shoulder Showdowns

Swimming, tennis, and even simple weightlifting can lead to shoulder injuries. Rotator cuff tears, impingement, and dislocations can be a real pain in the…well, the shoulder. But, it doesn’t have to hurt forever! Our Christchurch physio team has a variety of techniques, from targeted exercises to hands-on treatments, to get you serving aces or perfecting your breaststroke once again.

Head Bumps And Bruises

In contact sports like rugby, concussions are a real concern. Your brain is a precious asset, and we take its safety seriously. Our Christchurch physiotherapists can assess, monitor, and guide you through the recovery process following a head injury. Safety first, sports second – that’s our motto!

Runner’s Knee Rundown

Runners, we haven’t forgotten you! Patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as “runner’s knee,” can be a nagging issue. It’s the kind of injury that can turn your favourite pastime into a painful ordeal. But, you don’t have to give up the thrill of the open road beneath your feet! We’re here to help you pinpoint the cause and develop a plan to get you back pounding the pavement.

Treatment Tailored to You

From diagnosis to treatment, we ensure the best possible care and outcome for our patients. Here’s where our Christchurch physiotherapists shine. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your treatment plan will be as unique as you are. We’ll combine hands-on techniques, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments to help you regain strength, flexibility, and confidence, so you can get back to doing what you love: sports.

Prevention Is The Best Medicine

Of course, the best way to deal with sports injuries in Christchurch is to avoid them in the first place. Our friendly physiotherapists can help you create a personalised injury prevention plan. Whether it’s warming up properly, fine-tuning your technique, or understanding your body’s limits, we’ve got you covered. With our expert guidance, you can excel in your sporting endeavours while staying out of harm’s way.

[CTA] Sports injuries in Christchurch are part of the game, but they don’t have to keep you on the sidelines forever. With the guidance and support of our dedicated physiotherapists, you can recover, strengthen, and even excel in your chosen sport. So, don’t let an injury hold you back. Contact us today, and let’s get you back in the game!