What is periodontal therapy?

Dental issues including gingivitis and periodontitis can often lead to severe harm to both your teeth and gums. However, Dr. Blanca Fernandez and her team at Highland Dental Clinic in South Lakeland, Florida, assure you that these dental problems can be entirely prevented with proper dental care and maintenance. Prevention is key to avoiding treatments for gum disease and tooth decay. Let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about periodontal disease and therapy treatments often recommended after a diagnosis.

What is periodontal or gum disease?

Dr. Blanca Fernandez describes periodontal disease as an infection that leads to the inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues, specifically the gums. If left unchecked, this condition might spread, causing more harm. However, periodontal therapy can help many patients retain their oral health over time and prevent their condition from deteriorating, thus saving your smile from further damage!

Why is the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease crucial?

If one of our patients is diagnosed with periodontal disease at any stage, Dr. Blanca Fernandez of Highland Dental Clinic typically suggests they consider the benefits of periodontal therapy. This treatment aims to target and eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics might even be applied directly to the gums or taken orally to combat bacteria and restore your smile’s health.

What can happen if I do not seek gum disease treatment?

Neglecting a diagnosis or treatment can put not just your smile but your overall health at risk! The bacteria associated with periodontal disease is known to infiltrate the bloodstream, increasing the potential risks of developing more severe medical conditions like premature birth in pregnant women, heart disease, strokes, and even heart attacks. Patients with conditions like diabetes might also face elevated blood sugar levels, which can become increasingly challenging to manage when combined with the relentless cycle of periodontal inflammation. Therefore, treatments like scaling and root planing are often prescribed to patients recently diagnosed with gum disease to treat and regulate the infection. Once the condition has been diagnosed, regular management is needed to keep it from worsening again in the future. Prevention is critical to avoiding these issues completely.

Where can I find a dentist in the South Lakeland, Florida, area who can assist with gum disease treatment and periodontal therapy?

Your oral health is in reliable hands when you truly trust and respect your dental team. Connect with Dr. Blanca Fernandez and her team at Highland Dental Clinic if you are around the South Lakeland, Florida, area and are looking for a local dentist dedicated to your oral health and wellness. To schedule an appointment, call our friendly front office team at (863) 457-1954. Our office, located at 5163 US Highway 98, welcomes new and established patients and invites you to our state-of-the-art dental clinic for superior oral healthcare!

Blanca Fernandez, DMD
Blanca Fernandez, DMD

Dr. Blanca Fernandez is a skilled dentist in Lakeland, FL. She studied general dentistry at the Colombian Dental College and studied prosthodontics and received a Master of Science at the Dentistry Foundation of San Martin in Bogota, Colombia. She earned her Doctorate in Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. With specialized training in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and oral surgery, Dr. Fernandez is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and member of the American Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, West Coast Dental Association, and Polk County Dental Association.