Decoding Periodontal Plastic Surgery: Restore Your Smile with Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery | Dr. Katie O’Keefe

At Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery, we understand that restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile is about more than just appearance—it’s about your overall oral health and confidence. Periodontal plastic surgery offers an advanced solution to address gum-related issues, from treating gum recession to enhancing symmetry. Whether you’re seeking to correct dental damage, improve aesthetics, or prepare for dental implants, our Oral Surgeon in Orland Park provides personalized care to meet your unique needs.


What is Periodontal Plastic Surgery?

Periodontal plastic surgery focuses on reshaping and restoring the soft tissues and underlying bone that support your teeth. These procedures are designed not only to improve aesthetics but also to prevent oral health issues caused by gum recession, excess tissue, or injury. By addressing these problems early, you can enjoy long-term stability, improved functionality, and a smile that looks and feels natural.


Treatment Options Available

1. Behavioral Changes: Prevent Problems Before They Start

Prevention is the first step toward a healthy mouth. Adjusting your lifestyle—like enhancing your oral hygiene routine or quitting smoking—can reduce your risk of developing periodontal diseases. These changes may even eliminate the need for surgery by preserving your gum health naturally.

2. Deep Cleaning: Going Beyond Routine Care

For patients experiencing gum disease, a deep cleaning is often the first step. This thorough cleaning removes stubborn tartar and plaque from above and below the gumline, halting the progression of gum disease. Regular deep cleanings help preserve your oral health, minimizing the likelihood of more invasive treatments later.

3. Surgical Therapy: Correcting Gum Recession and Aesthetic Concerns

For advanced gum issues, surgical intervention offers precise solutions. Our Oral Surgeon in Orland Park may recommend procedures such as:

  • Gum Grafts: Used to treat gum recession by covering exposed roots, protecting teeth from further decay, and enhancing aesthetics.
  • Root Coverage Procedures: These techniques address exposed tooth roots, improving gum health and protecting teeth from sensitivity and damage.
  • Gum Contouring: Excess gum tissue is carefully removed and sculpted to correct a “gummy smile,” creating a balanced and symmetrical appearance.

4. Ridge Augmentation: Restoring Jawbone Contours for Dental Implants

If you’ve lost a tooth or had one extracted, the underlying bone can shrink, creating an uneven jawline. Ridge augmentation restores the natural contours of the bone and gum tissue, preparing the site for natural-looking dental implants. This procedure not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures implants are secure and easy to maintain.


The Benefits of Periodontal Plastic Surgery

Choosing periodontal plastic surgery offers multiple advantages:

  • Enhanced Aesthetics: Achieve a natural-looking, symmetrical smile by addressing gum irregularities.
  • Improved Functionality: Protect exposed roots and support compromised teeth for better oral function.
  • Long-Term Oral Health: Restore tissue attachment and reduce the risk of further gum disease and decay.
  • Optimized Implant Placement: Prepare the jaw and gumline for dental implants that blend seamlessly with your smile.

At Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery, we incorporate advanced surgical techniques for soft and hard tissue replacement. Whether you’re looking to correct gum recession, restore jawbone volume, or improve your smile’s appearance, our experienced team is here to provide exceptional care.


Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re ready to explore how periodontal plastic surgery can transform your oral health and confidence, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Oral Surgeon in Orland Park. Our skilled professionals offer tailored solutions designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking a comprehensive restoration or a subtle aesthetic enhancement, we’re here to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Take the first step toward long-term dental health and confidence—schedule your appointment today and discover the benefits of advanced periodontal care.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467

Protect Your Smile: The Importance of Mouthguards in Preventing Facial Injuries | Oral Surgeon Near Me

At Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery, we know how quickly sports-related accidents can happen—even in non-contact activities. Did you know that up to 40% of all dental injuries occur during sports? From basketball courts to soccer fields, the risk of impact to the teeth, mouth, or face is ever-present. Whether from an accidental elbow, a fall, or a fast-flying ball, these incidents can result in serious injuries such as chipped teeth, jaw fractures, or soft tissue damage.

These injuries not only cause immediate pain but can also require complex treatments, including root canals, dental implants, or even surgical procedures to realign facial structures. That’s why we encourage every athlete to use proper protective gear. If you’re looking for expert advice or dental solutions, an Oral Surgeon in Orland Park from our practice is here to help keep you safe and healthy.


Why Mouthguards Are Essential for Athletes

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, mouthguards are essential in minimizing trauma to the teeth and jaw. By absorbing the impact of sudden blows to the face or head, mouthguards help prevent not only dental injuries but also concussions. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard ensures athletes can play safely and confidently, reducing the risk of serious injuries that could require extensive treatments, such as dental implants or jaw surgery.


Types of Sports Mouthguards

If you’re considering a mouthguard for yourself or a family member, it’s important to choose the right one for optimal protection. Here are the three main types of mouthguards:

1. Stock Mouthguards

These guards are readily available at most sports stores, offering a quick solution for athletes. However, their one-size-fits-all design often makes them uncomfortable and less effective. Because they don’t provide a secure fit, stock guards may move around during play, increasing the risk of injury. While they’re better than nothing, they’re not ideal for long-term protection.

2. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards

Boil-and-bite guards are popular because they provide a semi-custom fit. The user softens the guard in boiling water, bites down on it, and molds it to the shape of their teeth. This customization improves comfort and protection over stock guards, helping reduce the risk of injury during sports. However, they may not provide the same level of precision and durability as professionally made custom guards.

3. Custom-Made Mouthguards

For the best possible fit and protection, custom mouthguards are the way to go. Made from dental impressions taken by a professional, these guards are designed specifically for your mouth. Custom guards offer superior comfort, durability, and protection, which can save athletes from costly dental injuries and extensive treatments. While they require a higher initial investment, their precision fit ensures they stay in place, giving you peace of mind during intense play.


Don’t Let Sports Injuries Derail Your Health

Every year, more than 5 million teeth are knocked out due to sports-related accidents, leading to an estimated $500 million in treatment costs. In many cases, timely intervention by an Oral Surgeon in Orland Park can help save or reimplant a knocked-out tooth. Acting quickly after an injury—and wearing a protective mouthguard—can make all the difference in preserving your smile.


Invest in Custom Protection Today

If you or your child participates in sports, now is the time to invest in a custom-made mouthguard. At Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery, we are committed to helping athletes protect their smiles. Custom mouthguards not only provide the best fit and comfort but also help prevent costly and painful injuries to the teeth and jaw.

Schedule a consultation with our Oral Surgeon in Orland Park today to explore your options. We’ll help you find the right mouthguard for your needs so you can focus on playing your best—without worrying about facial injuries.


Don’t leave your dental health to chance. Take the proactive step of wearing a mouthguard and safeguard your smile for the future. Call our office today to schedule an appointment and keep your smile—and your game—on point.

Chicago Dental Implants, Oral & Facial Surgery
Phone: (708) 301-5000
10713 W 159th Street
Orland Park, IL 60467