Periodontal Treatment

At Atlantic Dental Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care. For patients with gum disease, this means providing scaling and root planning, full-mouth debridement or periodontal maintenance appointments as determined by our dentists. If you require more advanced periodontal treatment, our office is happy to refer you to a trusted local periodontist or oral surgeon to help you receive the care you need. As your primary dental office, we will coordinate with these specialists as necessary to help ensure your continued oral health.

About Periodontal Disease
The CDC reports that nearly 50% of Americans have periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease has been linked to a growing number of systemic conditions including heart disease, diabetes, stroke and babies born with a low birth weight.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Your mouth is full of bacteria. If bacteria are not kept under control by brushing, flossing and professional cleanings, they can cause the development of gum disease. Other factors that contribute to gum disease are:

• Smoking
• Hormonal changes
• Diabetes
• Certain medications
• Dry mouth
• Genetics
• Chronic illness
• Pregnancy

If you fall into any of these high-risk categories, you may need to have more frequent or specialized dental cleanings to help keep the bacteria level in your mouth under control.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
Symptoms of periodontal disease vary from person to person, and some people may not notice any symptoms at all in the early stages. Common symptoms are:

• Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
• Bad breath
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Swollen or red gums
• Sensitive teeth
• Gum recession

When left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and bone loss. Recommendations include daily flossing, twice-daily brushing and regular dental cleanings with a dental hygienist.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
In the early stages, gum disease can be reversible. At Atlantic Dental Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we place a high priority on the early detection and treatment of periodontal disease in order to promote your overall health and protect your teeth.

Specialized dental cleanings that gently remove bacteria and sterilize below the gumline are sometimes necessary and a great line of defense against periodontal disease. Because the hygienists at our practice are highly skilled, these cleanings are effective and comfortable.

Contact Us
Want to learn more about periodontal disease in Ocean City, Maryland? Call our office at 410-213-7575 and schedule a visit with our dentists, Dr. Lawrence Michnick, Dr. Christopher Takacs or Dr. Kristen Mazzei.