Periodontics

Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The primary focus of Periodontists is on gum inflammation (gingivitis) and more advanced gum disease (periodontitis), which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and other serious health complications. At Gen Z Dentistry, we offer a comprehensive range of Periodontics services to address various gum conditions and help you maintain a strong foundation for your teeth.

Comprehensive Periodontal Care

When you visit Gen Z Dentistry for Periodontal care, you can expect an approach tailored to your needs. We will conduct a thorough examination of your gums, including measuring pocket depths, assessing gum attachment, and evaluating for signs of inflammation or recession.

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. It affects the tissues that support your teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bones. At Gen Z Dentistry in Glendale, NY, our periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating all stages of gum disease, ranging from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis.

One of the primary treatments for gum disease is scaling and root planing, often referred to as deep cleaning. This procedure involves carefully removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line and smoothing out the roots of the teeth. By eliminating these irritants, we can help the gums reattach to the teeth and prevent further progression of the disease.

For advanced periodontitis or cases requiring more precise treatment, we utilize laser therapy. Laser technology allows for minimally invasive and targeted removal of infected tissue while promoting the regeneration of healthy gum tissue. This approach results in less discomfort and faster healing times for our patients.

Gum Grafting

For patients with receding gums or exposed tooth roots, gum grafting offers a transformative solution to restore both the health and aesthetics of the gum tissue. Receding gums can be caused by factors such as aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, genetics, or aging. When the gums recede, it can lead to sensitivity, an increased risk of decay, and an uneven gum line that affects the appearance of your smile. During the procedure, we carefully harvest a small amount of tissue from another area of your mouth, often the palate (roof of the mouth) or nearby gum tissue. This tissue is then placed and secured over the areas of recession, effectively covering the exposed roots and restoring the gum line.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure designed to expose more of the tooth's surface by reshaping the gum line and sometimes the underlying bone. It is commonly performed for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Some of the common reasons for crown lengthening include:

• Gummy Smile: When a significant portion of the teeth is covered by excess gum tissue, it can create the appearance of a "gummy smile." Crown lengthening removes this excess gum tissue, revealing more of the tooth and achieving a more balanced smile.
• Tooth Restoration: In cases where a tooth is decayed, broken below the gum line, or has insufficient tooth structure for restoration (such as a crown or bridge), crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth, providing the necessary space for the restoration to be placed effectively.
• Uneven Gum Line: Sometimes, the gum line may appear uneven, with some teeth appearing shorter than others. Crown lengthening can be used to create a more symmetrical and harmonious gum line, improving the appearance of the smile.

Bone Grafting

A healthy jawbone is essential for the successful placement and stability of dental implants. However, insufficient bone structure in the jaw can pose challenges, especially for patients who have experienced bone loss due to tooth loss, trauma, or periodontal disease. That's where bone grafting comes in—a transformative procedure performed by Gen Z Dentistry periodontists. After a thorough examination and anesthesia, we either harvest bone from another part of your body or use donor or synthetic materials to augment the jawbone. The graft material is secured in place, and post-operative care instructions are provided for optimal healing. Over time, the graft stimulates new bone growth, allowing for successful dental implant placement.

Laser Gum Therapy

Laser gum therapy, also known as LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure), utilizes a specialized dental laser to precisely target and remove bacteria and infected tissue from the pockets around the teeth. The laser energy also stimulates the regeneration of healthy gum tissue and promotes the formation of new attachments between the gum tissue and the tooth surface. Laser technology has revolutionized periodontics, offering minimally invasive and precise treatment options. This advanced approach results in faster recovery times and improved outcomes for our patients.

• Initial Assessment and Examination: Before we begin laser gum therapy, our experienced periodontists will conduct a thorough assessment of your gums to understand the extent of gum disease. Through measurements and X-rays, we determine the severity of the infection, allowing us to tailor the treatment to your unique needs.
• Local Anesthesia: Your comfort is our priority, which is why we administer local anesthesia to ensure you feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. This numbs the treatment area, providing you with a comfortable experience throughout laser gum therapy.
• Precise Laser Treatment: Using dental lasers, we precisely target and remove bacteria and infected tissue beneath the gum line. The laser energy is focused, selectively eliminating harmful bacteria while preserving healthy tissue. This precise approach ensures thorough cleaning and disinfection of the pockets around your teeth.
• Stimulating Gum Tissue Regeneration: In addition to removing bacteria, the laser stimulates gum tissue regeneration, promoting new attachment and shrinking the pockets around your teeth. This stimulation supports the natural healing process, creating a healthier environment for your gums to thrive.
• Sealing: As the laser works, it seals blood vessels and nerve endings, reducing bleeding and discomfort during and after the procedure. This sealing action enhances your comfort and supports the healing process, ensuring a smoother recovery.

Statistics show that approximately 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older in the United States have some form of periodontal disease. Contact Gen Z Dentistry to schedule your appointment and start your journey to healthy gums and a confident smile.