At Highland Family Dental Care, Dr. Mana Shoeybi understands that healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile and overall wellness. Gum disease affects nearly half of American adults over 30, often without noticeable symptoms until advanced stages. Our Highland, MD dental practice offers state-of-the-art periodontal therapy, including advanced laser treatments, to restore and maintain your gum health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is a progressive infection that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth. When plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up along and under the gumline, it can lead to inflammation and, eventually, damage to the supporting structures of your teeth.
Gingivitis: The Early Stage
Gingivitis is the mild, initial form of gum disease characterized by:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Tender gums
The good news? Gingivitis is completely reversible with proper dental care. At Highland Family Dental Care, Dr. Shoeybi can detect gingivitis during your regular checkups and provide treatments to restore gum health before permanent damage occurs.
Periodontitis: The Advanced Stage
If gingivitis goes untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that causes:
- Receding gums that create “pockets” where bacteria thrive
- Breakdown of bone and connective tissue
- Loose teeth that may eventually fall out
- Persistent bad breath and unpleasant taste
- Changes in your bite
While periodontitis isn’t reversible, Dr. Shoeybi offers effective treatments to manage the condition, prevent further damage, and save your teeth.
Our Periodontal Treatment Options
At Highland Family Dental Care, we provide personalized periodontal therapy based on the severity of your condition and your specific needs.
Treatment for Gingivitis
For early-stage gum disease, we recommend professional dental cleaning where our hygienists thoroughly remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. We’ll also provide guidance on improved home care with proper brushing and flossing techniques, and recommend specific oral hygiene products tailored to your needs. In many cases, we suggest more frequent cleanings, often every 3-4 months instead of the standard 6 months, to closely monitor your gum health and ensure the infection doesn’t progress.
Treatment for Periodontitis
For more advanced gum disease, Dr. Shoeybi offers scaling and root planing, a deep-cleaning procedure that removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching. We may complement this treatment with antibiotic therapy, placing topical antibiotics in the periodontal pockets or prescribing oral antibiotics to control bacterial infection. These treatments work together to reduce inflammation, eliminate infection, and create an environment where your gums can begin to heal.
Advanced Laser Dentistry for Gum Disease
Dr. Shoeybi proudly utilizes state-of-the-art laser technology for periodontal treatment, offering several advantages for our patients. Laser therapy is significantly less invasive than traditional methods, resulting in minimal discomfort during and after treatment. The laser energy stimulates tissue regeneration, accelerating the healing process while precisely targeting infected tissue and preserving healthy gums. This advanced approach also reduces bleeding by sealing blood vessels as it works, minimizing bleeding during treatment. Most patients experience less recovery time and can resume normal activities immediately after laser periodontal treatment, making it an excellent option for busy individuals.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Diabetes and other systemic conditions
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
- Genetic predisposition
- Stress, which weakens your immune response
- Poor nutrition
Understanding your personal risk factors helps Dr. Shoeybi develop a tailored prevention and treatment plan for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Treatment
Is gum disease painful?
Early stages may be painless, which is why regular dental checkups are essential for early detection. Advanced gum disease can cause discomfort, especially when eating or brushing.
How long does periodontal treatment take?
Initial therapy typically requires 1-2 visits for scaling and root planing. Laser treatments are often completed in a single appointment. Maintenance visits are usually scheduled every 3-4 months.
Is periodontal disease contagious?
The bacteria that cause gum disease can be transmitted through saliva, but having good oral hygiene typically prevents infection.
Will I lose my teeth if I have gum disease?
With early intervention and proper treatment, tooth loss can often be prevented. That’s why Dr. Shoeybi emphasizes the importance of regular dental checkups.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes. Research has linked gum disease to serious health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and pregnancy complications.
Does dental insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for periodontal treatment. Our office team will work with you to maximize your benefits and discuss payment options.
Request Your Appointment Today
Don’t wait until gum disease progresses and causes irreversible damage to your smile. Contact Highland Family Dental Care today to schedule your periodontal evaluation with Dr. Mana Shoeybi.
Call us at 301-635-4619 to speak with our friendly staff or use our convenient online appointment request form below. We proudly serve patients throughout Highland, MD and surrounding communities.
Your journey to healthier gums and a beautiful smile starts with a single step – contact us today!
