Oral Wellness
A Healthier Mouth = A Healthier You
Start your journey to wellness in Hagerstown, MD
How Does Oral Wellness Impact My Health?
Heart Disease
Stroke
Dementia
Diabetes
Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and harmful bacteria can enter your bloodstream, contributing to over 57 serious health issues, including heart disease, dementia, stroke, and diabetes.
Lead a Healthier Life
At Potomac Dental Centre, we help patients manage oral inflammation and improve overall health. With early gum disease detection and treatment, we can:
Prevent Tooth Loss
Protect gums and supporting bone structure by keeping your teeth strong and secure.
Reduce Health Risks
Lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other health issues linked to gum disease.
Improve Comfort
Reduce gum inflammation, tenderness, and bleeding for a more comfortable mouth.
Promote Fresher Breath
Eliminate persistent bad breath caused by bacterial infections.
Save Money
Prevent costly dental treatments by addressing issues early.
Support Overall Health
Reduce inflammation throughout your body, leading to overall wellness.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis
While harmful bacteria can be present without symptoms, common signs of an oral infection include:
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or shiny gums
- Red, puffy gums
- Loose or missing teeth
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease (Gum Disease) is what happens when Gingivitis is left untreated. Periodontal disease has all of the same risk factors that Gingivitis (above) has as well as loss of jaw bone.
Stages of Gum Disease
Stages of Gum Disease
What Are Risk Modifiers?
Risk modifiers are factors that increase your chances of developing gum disease. Left unmanaged, they can lead to tooth loss and affect overall health. By identifying these factors, we can create a personalized treatment plan to protect your smile and well-being for years to come.
If you have any of the following risk factors, your oral health and overall wellness could be at risk. Identifying and addressing these can help protect your health:
Tobacco Use
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Medications
Depression
Immuno-compromised
Specialized Gum Disease Treatment
Scaling and Root Planing
Our scaling and root planing service goes beyond standard cleaning. This deep-cleaning approach removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach. By reducing the harmful bacteria that contribute to gum disease, we also help minimize the systemic inflammation tied to concerns like heart disease and diabetes.
Whether you’re looking to address existing gum issues or prevent future complications, scaling and root planing is a crucial step toward achieving a brighter smile and a healthier body.
Personalized Oral Wellness Plans
Your preventative health matters. Here at Potomac Dental Centre, we take a whole-wellness approach and focus on your overall health. Our passionate dental hygienists can identify the harmful bacteria in your mouth by utilizing saliva testing. They look at your unique risk factors and can create a personalized treatment plan just for you. Treatments may include oral rinses, prescribed antibiotics, deep cleanings, and more. Together we can bring your mouth back to health and prevent disease.
Oral DNA Saliva Testing
Oral DNA Saliva Testing is a leading diagnostic tool designed to identify harmful bacteria in your mouth, often long before they cause noticeable symptoms. By detecting these bad bacteria, we can take proactive steps to safeguard both your oral health and your overall well-being.
Why It Matters
- Early Warning System: The test uncovers the presence of oral bacteria linked to gum disease and other health risks, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and potential birth complications.
- Personalized Care: Knowing exactly which bacteria are present allows us to customize your treatment plan. This may include specialized oral rinses, antibiotic therapies, deep cleanings, and more.
- Comprehensive Health Protection: Gum disease is an inflammatory condition. When left unchecked, it can contribute to serious health issues. Early testing and intervention can help prevent complications before they start.
A simple oral rinse is all it takes!
Take Charge of Your Health
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear, be proactive. By understanding your unique risk factors and bacterial profile, we can help you maintain a healthier mouth and a healthier body. Contact us today to schedule your Oral DNA Saliva Test and begin your journey toward optimal oral wellness.
3-Step Plan for a Healthier You
ASSESS Your
Oral Health
TREAT to Optimize
Your Health
MONITOR Your
Oral Health
Other Preventative Services We Offer
At our office in Hagerstown, MD, dental cleanings and exams serve as fundamental preventive treatments. We prioritize your smile’s well-being by:
- Removing plaque and tartar (dental calculus) during teeth cleaning to prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease.
- Assessing the condition of your gums and bone to ensure optimal oral health.
- Thoroughly floss and polish your teeth.
- Conducting dental X-rays to detect any signs of decay or infection.
- Examining your smile for potential dental conditions or diseases that may pose harm.
We offer two types of dental exams to meet your needs.
Our comprehensive oral exam thoroughly assesses all oral tissues and is recommended for new patients on their first visit and every 3-5 years for existing patients. This 90-minute exam includes evaluations of your gums, teeth, bite, X-rays, and TMJ.
For ongoing care, periodic exams during regular cleanings monitor changes in your dental and overall health.
Did you know that dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by 80%? Our dentists and hygienists can help protect your teeth and your child’s teeth from decay with this preventive treatment.
A dental sealant is a protective coating made of a clear or tooth-colored resin material. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, creating a barrier that blocks out bacteria and food debris, effectively preventing decay and cavities. The sealant also smooths the natural pits and grooves of the teeth, making them easier to clean with regular brushing.
At Potomac Dental Centre, we empower our patients to prevent dental issues through simple and effective measures like fluoride treatments. Fluoride, a natural mineral, combats harmful bacteria and strengthens tooth enamel, fortifying it against decay.
During dental hygiene visits, many of our patients opt for fluoride treatment. After removing plaque and calculus (tartar) during your cleaning, we apply the fluoride treatment to seal and protect the enamel.
Our fluoride treatments offer prevention for up to 6 months from the application, effectively safeguarding against tooth decay.
Our team prioritizes early detection of oral cancer, which affects areas like the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and palate. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes. During routine cleanings and exams, our team conducts thorough oral cancer screenings using advanced technology, including the VELscope, to detect abnormalities early and protect your health.
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
Your oral wellness is the key to a healthier, happier you. At Potomac Dental Centre, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with friendly, compassionate, and expert care. Don’t wait, schedule your visit today, and let us help you protect your smile and your health.