Often called the “silent disease”, gum disease can slowly and stealthily deteriorate your oral health with few signs or warnings in the early stages.
Many patients do not realize they have gum disease until they come in for a visit with Dr. Finlay and Dr. Lim in their Annapolis area dentist office. A periodontal screening is part of all routine dental visits and an important part of maintaining a healthy smile- healthy gums support healthy teeth!
Dr. Finlay and Dr. Lim also educate patients on the signs of early gum disease, especially if they are considered at higher risk due to oral health issues or lifestyle practices. Understanding the signs of gum disease can help patients to take a more proactive role in their dental health and significantly reduce the risks associated with advanced gum disease, or periodontitis. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults and can be avoided with routine dentistry and a good at home oral hygiene routine.
Treating Gum Disease
For patients who have some form of gum disease, Dr. Finlay and Dr. Lim offer treatment options that will be tailored to the individual needs of the patient. In many cases of early stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, a thorough teeth cleaning may be sufficient for halting the development of the disease and restoring better oral health. If necessary, a more intense cleaning called scaling and root planing may be recommended or additional at home products may be suggested.
If gum disease has advanced to periodontitis, Dr. Finlay may use laser dentistry to address damaged tissue or refer the patient to a local oral surgeon.
Routine dental visits provide the opportunity for Dr. Finlay and Dr. Lim to monitor gum health and keep patients educated on the latest products and techniques for maintaining good oral health between visits. Your oral health can have an effect on your daily quality of life- keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition for a lifetime of healthy smiles!