Periodontal Disease

Ella DerMinassian, DDS -  - General Dentist

Fallsgrove Park Dental

Ella DerMinassian, DDS

General and Cosmetic Dentist located in Rockville, MD

Periodontal disease is a threat to your dental health, but you can prevent it and protect your smile with the right preventive dental care. At Fallsgrove Park Dental in Rockville, Maryland, Ella DerMinassian, DDS, is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and diseases of the gums and tissues of the mouth. Dr. DerMinassian can help you determine your risk of severe periodontal disease or gingivitis and enhance and protect your oral health with quality, individualized dental services. Schedule via the web or call Fallsgrove Park Dental. We also service the nearby areas of Gaithersburg, and North Potomac, MD.

Periodontal Disease Q & A

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease refers to infections of the structures around your teeth, including your periodontal ligament, your gums, and your alveolar bone. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease — an infection affecting your gums. All of the tissues can be involved with more severe forms of periodontal disease.

What is periodontics?

Periodontics is the avenue of dentistry centered around the gums and other structures in your mouth surrounding your teeth. With her experience, Dr. DerMinassian is able to:

  • Treat severe periodontitis
  • Clean infected surfaces in your mouth
  • Remove damaged or infected tissue
  • Place and maintain dental implants
  • Treat gingivitis (mild periodontitis)

Over time, unhealthy gums can negatively impact your oral health and are even associated with serious diseases like stroke, arthritis, and coronary artery disease.

Along with diagnosing and treating periodontitis, Dr. DerMinassian can also fit patients for TMJ / TMD night guards and sports guards in order to protect your teeth and gums from the effects of temporomandibular disorders and potential sports injuries.

Do I need periodontal care?

The following are some of the symptoms that could be signs of periodontal disease: 

  • Swollen gums
  • Receding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Sensitive teeth and gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Loose teeth

If you’re experiencing these symptoms and they don’t subside, you might have periodontal disease. You should seek professional dental treatment at Fallsgrove Park Dental as quickly as possible.

Am I at risk of getting periodontal diseases?

Several factors can increase your risk of getting periodontal disease, such as:

  • Tobacco use
  • Genetics
  • Hormone changes
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Poor diet
  • Obesity
  • Old age
  • Drug abuse

If some of these risk factors apply to you, you might need more frequent dental cleanings and checkups.

What are the treatments for periodontal disease?

Dr. DerMinassian determines the best course of treatment depending on the severity of your condition and your individual needs. Dr. DerMinassian can treat mild cases of gum disease with medications and lifestyle changes. More severe cases might need surgery to fully restore your smile. Common treatments for periodontal disease include: 

  • Bone grafts
  • Tissue grafts
  • Prescription mouthwash
  • Antibiotic treatments
  • Laser treatments
  • Antiseptic chip (a medicated piece of gelatin you place in your mouth)
  • Flap surgery (surgical pocket reduction)

For Dr. DerMinassian, preventive care is crucial in protecting your dental health. Professional teeth cleanings and scaling and root planing can help treat or protect you from periodontal disease. With scaling and root planing, Dr. DerMinassian removes all the tartar and plaque and deep cleans below the gumline.

Before suggesting surgery, Dr. DerMinassian always suggests less invasive options. If you or your loved one is due for a checkup or cleaning, call Fallsgrove Park Dental or book here on the website.