Healthy gums, healthy smile
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it often starts without pain. At Shady Grove Dental Care, Dr. Shalini Chittamuri, DDS, and our hygiene team catch gum problems early and treat them with deep cleanings, gentle laser-assisted therapy and regular maintenance visits.
Warning signs of gum disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bad breath that doesn't go away
- Gums pulling away from your teeth
- Loose teeth or a change in your bite
- Pus between your teeth and gums
Gingivitis and periodontitis
Gingivitis
The early, reversible stage. Gums may be red and bleed easily. A professional cleaning and better home care can usually reverse it.
Periodontitis
Infection spreads below the gum line and damages the bone that holds your teeth. It needs deeper treatment to stop it from getting worse.
How we treat gum disease
Gum health check
We measure the spaces between your teeth and gums and take digital X-rays to see how far gum disease has progressed.
Deep cleaning
Scaling and root planing removes tartar and bacteria below the gum line and smooths the roots so gums can heal. The area is numbed for comfort.
Laser-assisted therapy
Our Gemini diode laser can help reduce bacteria and support healing in infected gum pockets. About laser dentistry
Periodontal maintenance
Regular cleanings, often every three to four months, help keep gum disease under control.
For advanced gum disease, we refer you to a trusted periodontist (gum specialist) we work with closely. Our front desk coordinates the referral and records, and we continue your routine care here.
Why gum health matters
Keep your teeth
Treating gum disease early helps protect the bone that holds your teeth in place.
Your overall health
Research has linked gum disease with conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Fresher breath
Healthy gums mean less bleeding, less swelling and fresher breath.
Insurance and payment
In-network PPO plans
We're in-network with CareFirst BCBS (including FEP BlueDental), Aetna, Cigna, MetLife, Guardian, GEHA, Physicians Mutual, Ameritas, Humana, Reliance Standard Life and Medicare Advantage plans. Most PPO plans cover part of deep cleanings and periodontal maintenance. We check your benefits and explain your expected cost before treatment.
Insurance details →Self-pay savings and financing
No insurance? Ask about our self-pay discount. Financing is available through CareCredit, Cherry and HFD, subject to credit approval.
Payment options →Frequently asked questions
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are often an early sign of gingivitis. A professional cleaning and good home care can usually reverse it, so schedule a visit if your gums bleed regularly.
What is a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, removes tartar and bacteria from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots so your gums can heal. We numb the area for comfort.
Is laser gum therapy painful?
Laser-assisted therapy is gentle. The laser seals tissue as it works, which can mean less bleeding and a more comfortable recovery.
How often will I need periodontal maintenance?
Many patients with a history of gum disease need cleanings every three to four months. Dr. Chittamuri will recommend a schedule based on your gum health.
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis can usually be reversed. Periodontitis can be controlled with treatment and regular maintenance, but the bone it destroys doesn't fully return, which is why early care matters.
Will I need to see a specialist?
Most patients are treated in our office. If you have advanced gum disease, we'll refer you to a trusted periodontist and coordinate your care.
Book your gum health visit
Shady Grove Dental Care is at 15200 Shady Grove Road, Suite 340, Rockville, MD 20850, just off I-270 with free parking. Hours: Monday 8 AM–8 PM, Tuesday–Thursday 8 AM–4 PM. Se habla español.
New patient? See what to expect at your first visit and pre-fill your forms.
Related care: laser dentistry, cleanings and checkups and dental implants.