More than 66 million Americans are living with gum disease. If you’re one of them, periodontics can prevent the infection from spreading, preserve your oral health and transform your smile. At Carnegie Dental Wellness in Midtown West Manhattan, general and cosmetic dentist Constantina Bacopoulou, DDS, and the team use periodontics to treat gingivitis and periodontitis. To make an appointment at the practice in New York City, call the office today or schedule online.
What is periodontics?
Periodontics diagnoses and treats gum disease. Dr. Bacopoulou and the team focus on two of the most common types of gum disease, specifically:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild infection of your gums. It occurs when plaque –– a thin film of food particles, bacteria, and saliva –– build-up on your teeth and beneath your gums. Early symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis remains untreated. Over time, it causes your gums to pull away from your teeth, forming pockets where harmful bacteria can collect. Without intervention, periodontitis can cause your permanent teeth to loosen or fall out.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Gums that are tender to the touch
- Bad breath
- A foul taste in your mouth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
If you have an advanced case of gum disease, your gums might also start to recede and pull away from your teeth.
What services does periodontics provide?
Dr. Bacopoulou and the team offer various periodontal services, including:
Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing, or deep dental cleaning, is one of the most common treatments for gum disease. It involves your provider carefully removing plaque from beneath your gums. The process smooths your tooth roots, making it easier for your gums to reattach to your teeth.
Scaling and root planing usually requires one appointment. If you have an advanced case of gum disease, two or more visits might be necessary.
Antibiotic therapy
Antibiotic therapy uses prescription medication to eliminate harmful bacteria from your mouth. There are several types of antibiotics. Some come in liquid form; others are implantable beads that your provider places beneath your gums. Over time, the beads dissolve and destroy the infection.
Gum grafts
If you have a case of gum disease that results in loose teeth or severe gum recession, Dr. Bacopoulou might recommend a gum graft. During a gum graft, Dr. Bacopoulou removes healthy tissue from another area of your mouth and stitches it over your receding gums.
If you’re worried about gum disease, request a periodontics consultation at Carnegie Dental Wellness by calling the office today or scheduling online.