Dr. Ira Goldberg offers restorative dentistry solutions for gum disease in Succasunna, NJ. His professional dental team at Morris County Dental Associates treats patients with swollen and bleeding gums, toothaches, mouth sores, and receding gums. These conditions are signs of the disease. In the most severe cases of gum disease, patients may lose their teeth. Learn how we combat gum recession in our dental office.
Treating Gum Disease in Succasunna
Dr. Ira Goldberg and his team offer a variety of methods to treat gum disease. Continue reading to learn more about the types of treatments used for gum disease:
Scaling and Root Planing: Scaling and root planing are often used in conjunction to help clean gums and fight gum inflammation. Scaling goes beneath the gum line to remove plaque and tartar and provide a deep clean. Root planing smooths out tooth roots to help gums reattach to teeth.
Gum graft surgery: During this treatment, soft tissue is taken from one part of the mouth and then used to cover tooth roots. Tooth loss that often occurs in the later stages of periodontitis can be prevented with gum grafting.
Flap surgery: During this procedure, the gums are lifted and tartar is cleaned from beneath them. Deep gum pockets can be treated with flap surgery.
Treating Gum Recession with Pinhole Surgery
The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique was developed by Dr. John Chao, who has trained Dr. Goldberg in the procedure. Also called the “lunchtime gum lift”, this procedure is done to reverse gum recession using a minimally invasive procedure that is completed in a single visit with minimal discomfort and downtime.
To begin, Dr. Goldberg will numb the gums and tissue in the area. A tiny hole is made with a needle in the gums. Then a special dental instrument is placed through the pinhole and is moved back and forth with gentle movements to free the gum flap over the teeth.
Once the gum tissue has been freed, it is guided into a normal position covering the exposed tooth root surface. Tiny collagen strips are placed through the pinhole into the gums to help stabilize them. The pinhole method involves no incisions or sutures and usually heals in just one day.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis– Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Patients gums may be swollen and bleed upon contact. This stage of periodontal disease is reversible with increased oral hygiene. It is always recommended that patients brush and floss their teeth at least twice daily.
Early Periodontitis– The second stage of periodontal disease is early periodontitis. Patients may experience sore gums, bleeding gums, redness, and swelling. During this stage plaque on patients teeth begins to harden and cause decay. It is crucial to begin treatment before decay begins because at that point damage is irreversible.
Moderate Periodontitis– The third stage of periodontal disease is known as moderate periodontitis. Once the disease has reached this stage patients gums begin to recede, and teeth may become loose. Teeth have begun to decay, however with treatment we can minimize further damage and slow the progression of the disease.
Advanced Periodontitis– The last stage of periodontal disease is advanced periodontitis. This stage of the disease is the most severe and may result in tooth loss and bone deterioration. At this point the infection has spread to patients jawbone and potentially the bloodstream. Any damage that has already occurred is irreversible at this point, however treatment is necessary in order to prevent the disease from spreading and causing further damage.
Periodontal Disease Treatment FAQs
Do you have further questions about how periodontal disease treatment can preserve and save your smile? Continue reading to find answers to frequently asked questions in our office.
How long does it take to reverse periodontal disease?
The time it takes to reverse periodontal disease varies based on severity and patient. It may take anywhere from three weeks to six months. The process may be lengthy, however, it is necessary to preserve and restore gum health.
Can gums grow back after periodontal disease?
Gum tissue cannot grow back after periodontal disease. Gum grafting surgery can be used to replace missing tissue but your gums are not able to grow back naturally after damage.
What do gums look like with gum disease?
Most patients with gum disease have gum tissue that appears red and irritated. It is also common for patients with periodontal disease to experience bleeding when brushing and flossing.
Can brushing reverse periodontal disease?
In its earliest stages, a change in your oral care routine can reverse periodontal disease. This change involves a regimented brushing and flossing routine at least twice daily. If you boost your oral care routine early enough it can reverse periodontal disease.
Can gum disease affect your brain?
Gum disease may affect other aspects of your health. Untreated gum infection may increase your risk for Alzheimer’s and cancer. If you think you may have gum disease call us today to schedule a consultation. We can help!
Can a dentist save my teeth if I have periodontal disease?
Yes, your dentist can save your teeth from periodontal disease by catching the symptoms early. Visit your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and checkups. We can detect early signs of gum disease and take action to prevent it from progressing. It is only if you let gum disease progress without treatment, that it may result in tooth loss.
Request a Consultation
Do you have gums that have been receding or are you unhappy with the appearance of your smile? Call Morris County Dental Associates today at 973-298-5893 to explore your treatment options with Dr. Goldberg. You may also schedule an appointment online.