Gum Disease Treatment – Brooklyn, NY

If allowed to progress, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and even dangerous secondary infections like sepsis and pneumonia. Taking steps to treat gum disease can resolve this troublesome issue and prevent any lasting damage. If you need a little help getting your gums back in shape, contact us online so Dr. Sapienza can develop a customized treatment plan that will bolster your oral health and stop gum disease in its tracks.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a common oral health issue among American adults and can afflict patients of all ages. It begins with gingivitis, or inflammation of the gum tissue around the teeth. It can usually be reversed at this stage by practicing proper oral hygiene, but gingivitis will eventually progress to periodontitis if left untreated. While periodontitis can be managed, it results in permanent damage and can lead to severe consequences for your overall health like diabetes, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. Periodontitis requires professional dental attention for treatment.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

While our team always checks for any signs of gum disease during routine exams and cleanings, patients often discover that they have its symptoms on their own. Some factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontitis include smoking, poor oral hygiene, and teeth grinding. A few signs of gum disease you might notice include:

• Swollen, agitated red gums.
• The gums bleed when the patient brushes or flosses.
• The teeth appear longer due to receding gums.
• The teeth don’t fit together like they used to.
• Loosening of permanent teeth.
• Lingering bad breath

How Do We Treat Gum Disease?

Gum disease treatment can take several forms, and our team will determine the appropriate methods based on your oral health situation. We will thoroughly explain your options and why our recommendations are the best way to address your issues.

Scaling & Root Planing

Sometimes the gums need a thorough deep cleaning to eliminate the source of gum disease, and this is often done through the two-part process of scaling and root planing. Scaling cleans plaque and tartar from around and beneath the gumline, eliminating much of the bacteria that cause the infection. Afterward, root planing smooths out the surface of the roots of the teeth, making it easier for the gums to reattach to them and protecting your smile from future gum ailments.

Antibiotic Treatment

It’s possible that harmful bacteria may remain in your mouth even after a rigorous deep cleaning. Many patients require antibiotic treatments after scaling and root planing to eliminate lingering bacteria and prevent resurgent gum disease. Our team will always ensure that you understand exactly how and when to use these prescribed antibiotics.