Protect your oral health with routine preventive teeth cleanings and checkups in Catonsville.

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal (gum) disease is a growing oral health problem and one of the most common conditions we treat.

While periodontal disease is preventable with good oral hygiene habits, it can still develop. And the earlier we catch it, the easier it will be to treat.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is caused by plaque that builds up on the teeth, especially under the gumline. The sticky plaque attracts bacteria and eventually turns into hard tartar. The tartar and bacteria irritate the gums and cause infection.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Brushing twice a day and flossing once using proper techniques removes a lot of plaque. However, even the most diligent brusher and flosser may have difficulty removing all the plaque, especially under the gumline. You can improve your chances of preventing gum disease with twice-yearly professional dental cleanings from a skilled dental hygienist as recommended by the American Dental Association.

But what if you brush and floss and get your regular cleanings like you are supposed to and still get periodontal disease? Other factors can contribute to and cause a predisposition to gum disease:

Smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease. If you need help quitting, speak with your dentist.
Diabetes and heart disease are both linked to periodontal disease.
Numerous prescription medications cause dry mouth that contributes to gum disease.
Illnesses like cancer inhibit your immune system and increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
Genetics also plays a role as gum disease tends to run in families.

Our Team

Meet More of Our Team

Dr. Jasmine Gear

Hello, and welcome! I’m Dr. Jasmine Gear, and I’m thrilled to be your trusted dentist. My journey has taken me from Owings Mills to Catonsville, and it has truly been an incredible adventure.

My passion for dentistry began in high school when I spent my summer vacations assisting in my aunt’s private dental practice. It was during those formative years that I discovered my true calling.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology from Southern Connecticut State University in 2013. The following year, I was accepted into the Howard University College of ...

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Treating Periodontal Disease

How we address gum disease depends on how advanced it is and how much damage it has caused. Treating gum disease is important even in the early stage called gingivitis. As a progressive disease, delaying treatment will only allow further damage to your teeth and the bones and ligaments that support them.

Worse yet, untreated gum disease can also contribute to general health problems like heart and lung disease, stroke, dementia, and pregnancy complications.

Treating mild gum disease requires a renewed commitment to good oral hygiene habits and daily use of an antimicrobial mouthwash. Treatment for moderate-to-advanced gum disease may involve a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. Our hygienist removes tartar buildup from below the gumline during this treatment and smooths rough spots where bacteria gather.

If you are concerned that you might have periodontal disease, don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment and provide treatment if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What treatments are available for gum disease?

The appropriate treatment for your gum disease will vary depending on how far your disease has progressed and any contributing factors such as hygiene and other health conditions. Some of the treatments recommended for gum disease include:

An increased dedication to excellent oral hygiene
Antimicrobial rinses and other products
An antibiotic medication that is placed in the gum pockets
Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
Laser therapy
Gum surgery

We will discuss your situation with you and recommend the treatment that we believe will be the most appropriate for your unique needs.