Maureen Lefkoff DDS, MS in Baltimore: Specialist Gum Treatment by Referral
Maureen Lefkoff is a periodontist offering scaling, root planing, graft surgery, and implant placement to patients referred by general dentists across Baltimore. Her practice focuses on treating gum disease and tooth loss using surgical and non-surgical methods, serving as a second-opinion resource for patients whose primary dentist has identified periodontal problems.
What Periodontists Do and Why Referrals Matter
Unlike general dentists, periodontists complete three additional years of training in gum disease, bone loss, and implant surgery. Patients do not typically schedule with a periodontist directly; instead, a dentist observes signs of gum recession, pocketing, or bone loss and refers the patient for specialist evaluation. At that point, the periodontist takes over diagnosis and decides whether scaling and root planing (non-surgical cleaning under the gum line) will halt disease, or whether surgery is necessary. This referral pathway means a visit to Maureen Lefkoff follows a conversation with your primary dentist and an understanding that gum damage has been detected.
Services Offered
Maureen Lefkoff provides non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatment. Non-surgical scaling and root planing removes tartar buildup below the gum line and smooths the tooth root, often halting mild to moderate gum disease. Surgical services include gum grafting to rebuild receded tissue, bone grafting to support implants, and implant placement itself. Some periodontists in Baltimore—including those affiliated with UMMC and Mercy Medical Center—offer regenerative treatments such as guided tissue regeneration or enamel matrix proteins; you may ask your referring dentist whether your case is suitable for these techniques or whether Maureen Lefkoff's approach aligns with your needs. Specific pricing for procedures is best requested during the consultation, as costs vary by the extent of disease and the type of surgery needed.
When to See a Periodontist vs. Managing Gum Care at Home
General dentists manage early gum disease through better brushing and professional cleanings. Once bone loss appears on X-rays, gum pockets exceed 4 millimeters, or grafting is needed to halt recession, your dentist will refer you to a specialist. Periodontists are also the path for implant placement when bone loss has occurred. By contrast, patients with stable gums and no implant interest typically never need to see a periodontist; their general dentist handles all care.
Maureen Lefkoff serves patients whose disease has progressed beyond what routine cleanings can manage. Other periodontists practicing in Baltimore include practitioners at the UMMC Dental School and those in independent private practices; your referring dentist will help determine which specialist fits your case.
The First Visit: What to Expect
At the initial appointment, Maureen Lefkoff will review X-rays, measure gum pockets, and examine any areas of recession or loose teeth. She will discuss findings and present treatment options, typically scaling and root planing first. If surgery is necessary, she will outline the procedure, recovery time, and costs. Bring your X-rays from your general dentist and any notes on medications or bleeding disorders; these details guide sedation and anesthesia choices.
Hours and Location
Confirm current hours and parking details directly with the office, as schedules can shift seasonally and construction in Baltimore neighborhoods may affect access.
Why This Practice Matters in Baltimore
Maureen Lefkoff fills the specialist role that general dentists depend on to handle advanced gum disease and implant surgery, reducing the wait time patients face when seeking referrals to major dental schools or hospital-affiliated centers. For patients whose referring dentist recommends specialist care, her practice offers a direct pathway to diagnosis and treatment without routing through a large institution.
