Periodontics

FAQs

• What are the signs of periodontal disease or gum disease?

  The earliest sign of periodontitis is an irritated gum line that might cause discomfort or bleeding when you brush, floss, or have your teeth cleaned professionally. If not treated, the gums will start to retract and pull away from the teeth. This creates spaces between the teeth and gums called periodontal pockets that can fill with harmful bacteria. Your dentist will measure the depths of these pockets to determine how far the condition has spread and what treatment is necessary. If gum disease makes its way to the jawbone and the connective tissues of teeth, the jawbone can deteriorate, and teeth can be lost.

• What causes gum disease?

  There are three common causes of gum disease. The first and most common is chronic periodontitis. This occurs when oral hygiene is neglected and bacteria accumulate beneath the gum line, eventually turning into a hard substance called tartar. Tartar is not easily removed by brushing and flossing and requires professional cleaning. If left untreated the gums become inflamed and damaged and bone loss occurs.

  The second cause is aggressive periodontitis, this is believed to be a genetic condition as it shows up in a small number of families. It moves quickly and can even be seen in children.

  The last and the rarest cause is necrotizing periodontal disease. This can occur in people with immune issues and or chronic diseases. The soft tissue and bone are compromised because of a lack of blood flow.

• How do you treat gum recession?

  At Dental Care East Hanover, gum recession is treated in multiple ways, including:

  • Medication: If an infection is found in the gums, antibiotics may be prescribed. Topical antibiotics can include antibiotic mouth rinse or gels containing medicated relief. Other medications may also be used to treat the underlying problem that is causing gum recession.
  • Gum grafting: Our team can remove a small amount of healthy soft tissue either from the roof of your mouth, from in front of any teeth that already have disproportionate gum coverage, or from another donor source, and attach it to the area where your gums have receded.
  • Pinhole® Surgical Technique: Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™) is the minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum grafting. During this procedure, instead of incising the gum tissue, a small “pinhole” is created above the tooth. Next, a special instrument is inserted, and the gum tissues are repositioned back over the tooth. Collagen strips are then placed to help secure the tissues in a healthier and more esthetic position over each tooth. Finally, the tissues are gently sutured in place to aid in proper healing.
• What is crown lengthening?

  Our crown lengthening in East Hanover, NJ has both esthetic and functional purposes. While many patients seek treatment for cosmetic concerns, we provide treatment for a gummy smile to promote oral health, too. Excessive gum tissues can harbor bacterial plaque underneath, increasing the risk for tooth decay and infection. Our dentists have the expertise to determine the cause of your condition and consider both the functional and esthetic aspects of your treatment.