Who is the best periodontist in Alexandria?

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf offers comprehensive solutions for treating periodontal (gum) disease. Contact our office for more information.

What is a periodontist?

A periodontist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease ranges from a mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a serious condition that can result in soft tissue and bone damage. Periodontitis is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Do you accept new patients?

Alexandria VA and Waldorf MD dentist welcomes new patients of all ages. Contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask your general dentist for a referral.

What is the difference between a periodontist and a dentist?

A periodontist is a dentist with 2-3 years of additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Why are my gums bleeding? 

Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. It’s a common and mild form of gum disease, and it’s caused by a buildup of plaque at your gum line. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What should I do about my bleeding gums?

Treatment of bleeding gums depends on the cause. Common treatments include improved oral hygiene, professional teeth cleaning, or scaling and root planing procedures. Paying more attention to proper brushing and flossing can stop gums from bleeding if the problem is related to dental hygiene.  Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Signs of gingivitis, the mildest and most treatable form of periodontal disease, include reddening, swelling and bleeding gums. Other symptoms are chronic halitosis (bad breath), sensitive teeth, and difficulty or pain with chewing. At this point, professional periodontal treatment can prevent the gingivitis from advancing to periodontitis. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What impact can periodontal disease have on my overall health?

Periodontal disease has been linked to diabetes, heart/kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, osteoporosis, and some forms of cancer. Research continues into the cause-and-effect relationship between gum disease and other health conditions. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Is there a difference between gum disease and periodontal disease?

Gum disease is another term for periodontal disease. Both terms refer to the same bacterial infection of the gums. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS of Alexandria and Waldorf for more information or to schedule an appointment.