Gum Disease Awareness Month: What Rockford, IL Families Should Know About Prevention

Quick answers

• Gum disease is common, but early attention and consistent daily care can help manage it

• Dr. Jerome Austriaco at Aspen Dental in Rockford, IL provides gum health screenings and personalized care plans

• Preventive visits and steady oral care habits support gum health over time

• Aspen Dental works with most PPO insurance plans and offers financing options to help make care accessible

Why Rockford, IL residents should pay attention to gum disease

February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month, and Dr. Jerome Austriaco wants Rockford residents to understand an important aspect of gum health: gum disease does not always cause discomfort early on.

“One of the most common misconceptions I hear is that if gums don’t hurt, nothing is wrong,” Dr. Austriaco explains. In reality, gum disease can progress quietly, which is why regular dental visits play an important role.

Gum disease often begins as gingivitis, with symptoms such as redness, swelling or bleeding along the gums. Without attention, it can progress to a more advanced stage where the bone that supports the teeth may be affected. Seasonal changes in Rockford, including sinus pressure and allergies, can sometimes make early signs harder to notice, making routine checkups especially valuable.

What daily habits help protect gum health?

Dr. Austriaco often reminds patients that daily habits matter. When asked what makes the biggest difference, he emphasizes consistency, especially when it comes to cleaning between teeth.

Brushing helps clean tooth surfaces, but it cannot reach the spaces between teeth where plaque often builds up first. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from these areas before they harden and affect the gums.

A supportive daily routine includes:

• Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush

• Cleaning between teeth once daily using floss or interdental cleaners

• Using antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your care team

During preventive visits at Aspen Dental in Rockford, IL, patients receive guidance on technique and routine adjustments that can help support gum health at home.

How Aspen Dental in Rockford, IL detects and treats gum disease

Gum health evaluations at Aspen Dental begin with a thorough assessment. The care team measures gum pocket depths, checks for inflammation or recession and reviews X-rays to look at bone levels around the teeth.

For early-stage gum disease, professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone cannot reach. Many patients see improvement when cleanings are combined with consistent home care.

If gum disease has progressed, deeper cleanings may be recommended to address bacteria below the gumline and help support gum tissue health. When needed, the care team discusses additional options clearly so patients understand what is being recommended and why.

What gum disease means for your overall health

Gum health is closely connected to overall health. Research has found associations between gum disease and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes-related complications and respiratory concerns.

For patients managing diabetes, gum disease can make blood sugar harder to manage, while diabetes can increase the risk of gum concerns. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may also affect gum health.

Dr. Austriaco and the Aspen Dental team in Rockford, IL consider overall health history when evaluating gum health, helping support care decisions that take the whole picture into account.

Insurance and payment options for gum disease treatment

Aspen Dental in Rockford, IL works with most PPO insurance plans and reviews benefits before treatment begins. Preventive services such as cleanings and exams are often covered as part of routine care.

Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices.

For patients without insurance or those needing flexibility, financing options through third-party lenders are available. Many patients who apply for financing are approved, allowing treatment costs to be planned over time.

Clear cost estimates are provided after exams so patients know what to expect before moving forward.

When Rockford, IL patients should schedule a gum disease screening

Consider scheduling a visit if you notice bleeding during brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, redness or swelling along the gums or changes in how your teeth feel when biting.

Even without noticeable symptoms, routine checkups every six months allow early detection of gum changes that may not be felt at home. Patients with certain risk factors, such as diabetes, tobacco use or family history of gum disease, may be advised to visit more frequently.

Frequently asked questions about gum disease

Does Aspen Dental accept Medicaid for gum disease treatment?

No. Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices. Aspen Dental works with most PPO insurance plans and offers financing options to help make care accessible. The Rockford, IL team reviews coverage and explains costs before treatment begins.

Can gum disease be reversed?

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be managed with professional cleaning and consistent home care. Once gum disease progresses, treatment focuses on stabilizing gum health and preventing further changes. Early care makes a difference.

How long does gum disease treatment take?

Treatment timelines vary depending on the stage of gum disease. Some patients see improvement after a professional cleaning and home care adjustments, while others may need multiple visits. Dr. Austriaco creates personalized care plans with clear expectations for each patient.

Take control of your gum health this February

National Gum Disease Awareness Month is a reminder that gum health benefits from daily care and regular professional visits. Dr. Jerome Austriaco encourages Rockford patients to stay consistent with home care and schedule checkups to catch changes early.

Aspen Dental in Rockford, IL offers gum health evaluations, treatment and preventive care with flexible scheduling and clear communication. When you’re ready, you can schedule an appointment by calling the office or booking online.

Your gum health is an important part of your overall well-being, and your care team is here to support you every step of the way.