Periodontal TherapyAn Overview
As a family dentist in Fallston, one of our primary goals is to treat and prevent gum disease. Our Bel Air area dentist office has a strong dental hygiene department with excellent dental hygienists who can provide you with anything from a gentle routine cleaning to effective treatment of periodontal disease.
Gum disease has two main stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the milder form of gum disease and can be easily treated are reversed through regular flossing and routine professional teeth cleaning. Periodontitis is a more serious condition that causes receding gums, bone loss and ultimately tooth loss.
Factors that contribute to periodontal disease include smoking or chewing tobacco, certain medications, defective fillings, crooked teeth, systemic disease, improper home care, and irregular dental cleanings.
Symptoms Of Gum Disease
Because gum disease is usually not painful, most patients may not know they have it until it is too late. Biannual dental check-ups can help detect gum disease early for conservative treatment. Warning signs of gum disease are:
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the bite including fit of dentures
Dr. Elliott screens for oral cancer at preventive care visits!
Dr. Elliott performs an oral cancer screening as part of routine preventive care at Harford County Dentistry. Have you been screened?
Screening for this growing disease is important- if caught early on patients have a dramatically improved survival rate. Understanding the common signs and symptoms of oral cancer is also important for early detection:
- Persistent hoarseness
- Pain or difficulty swallowing
- Lump in the throat or neck
- Persistent earache- often in both ears
- Numbness in or around the mouth
- Lesion or sore that does not go away
Routine preventive care can not only help to support long term oral health, but is an important part of maintaining overall physical health and well being. We seek to create and maintain a long term relationship with patients as a partner in their health care.
Take the time to schedule a visit with Dr. Elliott as part of a commitment to a healthier lifestyle!