Periodontal Therapy – Baltimore, MA
For Healthier Gums and a Safer Smile
Periodontal disease, or gum disease as it’s more commonly known, is a chronic condition where the gums have become infected, often as a result of poor oral hygiene. The disease starts off mild, but if you aren’t able to get it under control in time, it could lead to tooth loss or an increased risk of heart disease. Luckily, with the help of Dr. Van-Dinh, you can get your gum disease under control and protect the rest of your smile from further damage.
Why Choose Harbor Periodontics for Periodontal Therapy?
- Capable, Friendly Team Led by Board-Certified Periodontist
- Nearby Garage Parking Available
- Dental Insurance Accepted
Periodontal Cleanings
A periodontal cleaning is different from a regular dental cleaning. For one thing, it’s performed every three to four months as opposed to twice a year; more frequent cleanings are necessary in order to keep gum disease at a manageable level. And while dental cleanings are a preventive measure, periodontal cleanings are meant to address gum disease that’s already present. The process largely focuses on removing tartar and disinfecting the pockets of your gums so that the current issue doesn’t grow any worse.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are the two steps of the deep cleaning process used to manage gum disease. Scaling is when we break down and remove tartar from behind your gum tissue, thus getting rid of much of the harmful bacteria contributing to your gum disease. Once scaling is complete, root planing is performed to smooth out the roots of the teeth. Smooth tooth roots have an easier time reattaching to the gums, and they’re less vulnerable to future bacteria buildup.
Learn More About Scaling & Root Planing
Oral Cancer Screening
While we’re looking at your gums, we have an opportunity to check for symptoms of oral cancer. About 54,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer every year; those that receive their diagnosis while the disease is still localized have a much higher chance of a successful treatment. If we see anything that could potentially point to oral cancer, such as a discolored red or white patch in your mouth, we will let you know and explain what your next steps should be.
Dangers of Gum Disease
Millions of germs and bacteria are living inside your mouth right now. The damage caused by gum disease can give these harmful organisms a way to enter your bloodstream. If that happens, they can travel to different parts of your body and put you at risk for a wide variety of health issues.
Researchers are continuing to shed light on the connection between gum disease and a number of other health problems. While some links still need further study, there’s quite a bit of evidence that gum disease can raise your risk for cardiovascular issues such as heart disease and ischemic stroke. Other conditions that gum disease can potentially contribute to include respiratory disease, head or neck cancers, kidney disease, and diabetes.
Of course, even without taking the rest of your body into account, gum disease can wreak havoc on your oral health. It is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults, and it’s a condition that only grows worse if it is left alone. You need to seek professional treatment as soon as possible if you want to keep your gum disease under control.