What Is Periodontics?
Periodontal or gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss. When the gums become inflamed, they pull away from the lower tooth surfaces. Deep pockets form where plaque and tartar accumulate and cause inflammation. Periodontic care treats gum disease and strives to reverse its damaging effects, saving teeth and preventing the onset of associated health conditions.
Benefits of Periodontal Care
- Deep cleaning of the gums reduces bacteria and inflammation
- Healthy-looking, clean gums improve your smile
- Fresh breath
- Prevents tooth loss
- Preserves the jawbone and prevents resorption
- Reduces risk of health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and preterm birth
Procedures Offered
We offer a comprehensive selection of periodontic services, including:
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling is the most common procedure that combats gum disease. It removes tartar buildup from surfaces above and below the gum line. Root planing involves smoothing the root to create a healthy surface for the gum to reattach, reducing pockets.
Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy involves surgically removing gum tissue. The procedure reshapes and removes diseased gum tissue to eliminate pockets between the gums and teeth. With the diseased tissue removed, the dentist can easily access tartar buildup and encourage restoration and healing.
Dental Crown Lengthening
Sometimes, a tooth does not have enough visible surface to attach a crown. In this case, the dentist can remove gum tissue around the tooth's base to expose more tooth structure. Dentists can also use this procedure for cosmetic reasons like a "gummy" smile.
LANAP Laser Treatment
LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It is an advanced periodontal tool that uses a laser to clear bacteria and reattach gum tissue to the root. The major difference between LANAP and traditional periodontal surgery is that the bone is able to regenerate, rather than being cut away.
Dr. Robert Gregg, a good friend of Dr. Fine since dental school, invented the procedure, and Dr. Fine has been performing it for decades.
Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation
Dr. Fine uses the Chao Pinhole Technique to treat gum recession. The system is an excellent alternative to gum or soft-tissue grafting. A needle makes a small hole in the gum tissue during the procedure, creating an access point to loosen and slide the gum tissue to cover the exposed root. The surgery needs no incisions or sutures.
Dr. Fine was the first dentist on the East Coast to use this procedure. His patients travel from around the world to receive his care, from countries like Ireland, South Africa, Israel, and China.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Swollen, tender, red gums or other oral pain
- Bleeding while flossing and brushing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Teeth moving out of position to create more space between them
- Mouth sores
- Pus along the gum line
- Bad breath
- Change in dental bite
Gum disease is associated with various severe health conditions. Scientists believe gum disease fosters pathogens that can produce toxins and affect other bodily systems. The connection is becoming more apparent as further medical research is published.
Some of the conditions that may be brought on or made worse by gum disease include preterm birth, heart disease, and diabetes.
The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It is fully reversible with proper oral care techniques. Following your dentist's recommendations for a healthy oral care routine can help prevent gum disease. Be sure to attend all regular dental cleanings and receive exams and X-rays when required.
Smokers, people with vitamin C deficiencies, and people with poor oral care habits are at a higher risk of periodontal disease.