- Dental ExaminationRemember that periodontal disease is an active infection within your body that can penetrate beyond your gums and into other systems. While this poses various risks, periodontal disease is both preventable and treatable. Proper daily brushing and flossing and regular oral examinations are easy steps you can take towards reducing your risk of stroke and improving your overall health.
- Oral Cancer ScreeningWhile we’re looking at your gums, we have an opportunity to check for symptoms of oral cancer. About 54,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with oral cancer every year; those that receive their diagnosis while the disease is still localized have a much higher chance of a successful treatment. If we see anything that could potentially point to oral cancer, such as a discolored red or white patch in your mouth, we will let you know and explain what your next steps should be.
- Teeth CleaningA periodontal cleaning is different from a regular dental cleaning. For one thing, it’s performed every three to four months as opposed to twice a year; more frequent cleanings are necessary in order to keep gum disease at a manageable level. And while dental cleanings are a preventive measure, periodontal cleanings are meant to address gum disease that’s already present. The process largely focuses on removing tartar and disinfecting the pockets of your gums so that the current issue doesn’t grow any worse.
- Fillings
- Veneers
- CrownsGum recession is one of the most noticeable symptoms of gum disease. As gums recede, they expose an increasing amount of the tooth crown and root. Gum recession can affect one or many teeth, causing a wide range of symptoms including sensitivity, inflammation of gum tissue, root exposure, and cavities. It is important to address because the gums are the primary barrier against bacteria which can cause bone and gum deterioration, lead to tooth loss, or enter the body and cause additional systemic issues.
- BridgesSometimes, crown lengthening is necessary for other cosmetic or restorative dental procedures. If a tooth is too decayed or has broken below the gum line, it can prevent the proper attachment of dental prosthetics like bridges and crowns. By altering the gum and bone line, more of the natural tooth is exposed, allowing enough room for prosthetics.
- Restorative DentistryToday, Dr. Van-Dinh takes a lot of continuing education focused on soft tissue grafting, bone grafting, and dental implant esthetics. She regularly attends the annual Academy of Periodontology meeting as well as the International Symposium of Periodontal and Restorative Dentistry in Boston.
- Deep CleaningScaling and root planing are the two steps of the deep cleaning process used to manage gum disease. Scaling is when we break down and remove tartar from behind your gum tissue, thus getting rid of much of the harmful bacteria contributing to your gum disease. Once scaling is complete, root planing is performed to smooth out the roots of the teeth. Smooth tooth roots have an easier time reattaching to the gums, and they’re less vulnerable to future bacteria buildup.
- DenturesDentures are removable prosthetics that replace missing or extracted teeth. Once fitted for a denture, it takes time to adjust to the way it feels and functions, as it differs greatly from your natural teeth. Aesthetically, modern denture designs look considerably more natural and realistic than older models.
- Dental ImplantsMillions of Americans across the country have dental anxiety in one form or another. We don’t want your fears to stop you from having important periodontal work done, which is why Dr. Van-Dinh is proud to offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. We’ll put your anxieties to rest so that you can have periodontal therapy, dental implant surgery, and other important treatments done while staying calm and comfortable. Call today to learn more about your sedation options at our Baltimore office.
- Oral Surgery
- Gum SurgeryWhen it comes to periodontal care, the coverage can vary quite a bit. Some plans will help pay for laser periodontal therapy, gum surgery, and dental implant placement, and some will not. There are specific periodontal-focused plans that people can sign up for, and these are typically recommended for those who have been diagnosed with gum disease. It’s important to read over your policy, talk directly to your provider, or reach out to our team directly before expecting your insurance to help pay for a treatment.
- Tooth Extractions
- Bone GraftingBone grafting is a procedure that replaces or augments deteriorated bone. There are three types of bone grafts: autogenous grafts, allografts, and xenografts.
- OrthodonticsA periodontist is a type of dental specialist that focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the structures that support the teeth, i.e. the gums and underlying bone. It’s a recognized specialty like orthodontics and pediatric dentistry.
- Invisalign Orthodontics
- Braces
- Teeth Whitening
- Cosmetic Dentistry