At Riverdale Dental, P.C. in Bronx, NY, we understand that the foundation of a healthy smile lies not only in the teeth themselves but also in the structures that support them. Our dedicated periodontics services focus on the health of these supporting structures — your gums, jawbone, and the connective tissue that holds your teeth in place. Committed to excellence and patient-centered care, our periodontal treatments are designed to ensure the longevity and health of your oral ecosystem.
Periodontics is a crucial branch of dentistry that goes beyond the teeth to encompass the overall health of the supporting structures of the oral cavity. If you’re experiencing issues with your gums or concerned about the health of your jawbone, our expert team at Riverdale Dental, P.C. is here to offer comprehensive, compassionate care.
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. This includes the management of gum disease, the maintenance of gum health, and the treatment of conditions affecting the jawbone and the connective tissue. Our periodontists are experts in treating everything from mild gingivitis to more severe periodontal diseases, ensuring the health and stability of your gums and teeth.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, more widely recognized as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition primarily affecting the gums but can have far-reaching effects on overall oral health. The primary culprit behind periodontal disease is plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When plaque is not adequately removed, it hardens into tartar, exacerbating gum irritation and leading to an inflammatory response known as gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease.
As the condition progresses, it develops into periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming infected pockets. The body’s immune response, combined with bacterial toxins, starts to break down the bone and connective tissue that holds teeth in place. Without treatment, this leads to advanced periodontitis. Symptoms may include the loosening of teeth, bone loss, and ultimately, tooth loss.
Periodontal disease is a gradual process that can take years to manifest significant symptoms, hence the importance of regular dental check-ups for early detection.
Signs & Symptoms
The progression of periodontal disease is often subtle, but there are key signs and symptoms to watch for. In its early stages, you might notice that your gums are red, swollen, or bleed easily during brushing or flossing. As the disease advances, symptoms become more pronounced. Persistent bad breath (halitosis) caused by bacteria in the mouth is a common symptom. You might also experience a receding gum line, giving your teeth an elongated appearance.
As periodontitis progresses, the symptoms become more severe. These include the formation of deep pockets between the teeth and gums, loose or shifting teeth, and changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite. Pain during chewing and increased sensitivity are also common as the disease worsens. It’s important to note that periodontal disease can progress without pain in its early stages, making regular dental check-ups essential.
Periodontal Disease Diagnosis
Diagnosing periodontal disease begins with a comprehensive examination of your gums to check for any signs of inflammation, gum line recession, and any deep periodontal pockets – spaces between the teeth and gums indicative of gum disease. We utilize a special tool called a periodontal probe to measure pocket depths; healthy gums typically have pocket depths of three millimeters or less.
In addition to a physical examination, we employ advanced imaging techniques like digital x-rays to assess the health of the bone beneath the gum line. These images help us determine the extent of any bone loss due to periodontal disease. In some cases, we might also recommend a microbiological test to identify specific bacteria causing the infection, which can help tailor the most effective treatment plan.
Our goal at Riverdale Dental, P.C. is to catch periodontal disease in its earliest stages when it’s most treatable. Regular dental visits are crucial in detecting the disease early and maintaining optimal oral health. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of periodontal disease or it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us.
Periodontal Disease Treatments
Treatment for periodontal disease varies depending on the severity of the condition. Our approach can range from non-surgical treatments like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to more advanced surgical procedures, depending on your specific needs.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths out the roots of the teeth. This procedure helps to reduce gum inflammation and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
Arestin®
Arestin plays a crucial role in our battle against periodontal disease, especially when used alongside scaling and root planing. This antibiotic is specifically designed for local administration directly into the infected gum pockets, the areas most affected by periodontal disease.
Flap Surgery
Flap surgery is a surgical procedure used to treat advanced periodontal disease. It involves lifting the gums to remove tartar deposits in deep pockets and reduce the pocket depth, making it easier to maintain healthy gums.
Soft Tissue Laser Surgery
We use advanced soft tissue laser technology for certain periodontal treatments. This minimally invasive technique allows for precise treatment of diseased gum tissue with less discomfort and faster healing times.
Other Periodontal Services
Our periodontal services also include gum grafts to treat gum recession, crown lengthening procedures for restorative purposes, and guided tissue regeneration to encourage bone growth.
Cosmetic Gum Contouring
Cosmetic gum contouring is a procedure designed to reshape the gum line for a more aesthetically pleasing smile. It can correct uneven gums or a “gummy” smile, enhancing the overall appearance of your teeth.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a procedure used to rebuild bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease or tooth loss. This is often necessary as a preparatory step for dental implants or other restorative procedures.
Your Journey To Healthy Gums
At Riverdale Dental, P.C., we are committed to providing comprehensive periodontal care to ensure the health and longevity of your smile. Whether you are in need of treatment for gum disease or are interested in cosmetic gum procedures, our experienced team is here to offer the highest standard of care. Contact us today to learn more about our periodontal services and how we can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
