Preventive and Periodontal (Gum) Care
One of the most common dental concerns adults experience is gum (periodontal) disease. This condition affects as many as 75 percent of patients, and it can lead to cavities, tooth loss, and other types of damage. Gum disease develops when bacteria eats into the gums. Signs that indicate periodontal disease has developed include red, swollen, and tender gums, receding gums, gums that bleed easily, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. Our experienced dentists can identify and address periodontal disease. Our skilled team is dedicated to providing exceptional, effective care in a comfortable and compassionate environment.
For additional information about our gum care treatments reach out to our team for more information. We can also help you schedule a consultation if you’re ready to speak with our dentist.
Soft Tissue Management
Diagnosis and treatment of periodontal, gum, and bone disease can significantly affect oral and physical health. Studies have linked gum disease to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other life-threatening conditions. Our dentists design soft tissue management (STM) plans to achieve lifelong dental health by eliminating gum infection, inflammation, deep pockets, and bleeding to obtain periodontal health. An STM plan typically consists of:
- A thorough periodontal exam, including deep pocket measurements
- Deep cleaning below the gum line into the pockets
- Irrigating treated areas with medication
- More frequent cleanings
- A long-term home cleaning regimen
When treated in the early stages, the ravaging effects of periodontal disease can be stopped and often improved. North Brooklyn Dental Care uses some of the most effective periodontal treatments and technologies available to help you enjoy fresher breath and healthier gums and teeth.
Periodontal Surgery
In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgery may be necessary to effectively treat the problem. Our dentists use advanced techniques to help restore the health of your mouth while preserving the strength and appearance of your teeth and oral structures. A procedure known as osseous surgery can help protect teeth from bacteria that could lead to severe dental damage. In this treatment, the gum tissue is lifted and plaque is cleared away from the pockets. The affected tooth or teeth will then be smoothed and lightly reshaped so bacteria cannot easily attach itself to the surface. Additionally, we can utilize a medication called ARESTIN® to further improve gum health. This antibiotic can be applied under the gums during scaling and root planing (SRP) to help fight inflammation.
Crown Lengthening and Gingivectomy
Certain restorations and cosmetic treatments may require access to areas of your teeth that are currently covered by gum tissue. Crown lengthening is used to reshape the gum line to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This procedure may be necessary if the tooth is broken or if the tooth is too weak or unstable for a restoration like a dental bridge or crown.
A gingivectomy can be performed to remove excess and unhealthy tissue. This procedure can also be administered as a cosmetic treatment to address a “gummy smile.” By removing a small amount of extra gum tissue, the proportion of the oral structures can be enhanced for greater aesthetic harmony. If you consider your teeth to be too “short,” this approach can make more of the tooth visible that would otherwise be covered with gum tissue.