Periodontics in Old Bridge

Gum disease is prevalent in this country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 50% of individuals over age 30 have periodontal (gum) disease. Many of these people have gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease. When someone has gingivitis, they have irritated, red, and puffy gums that can bleed when they brush. It's caused by plaque and tartar building up at the gumline and irritating the gum tissue. Gingivitis may turn into periodontal disease, a more advanced form of gum disease. Gingivitis is curable, often with a dental cleaning and better oral care habits.

If you have periodontal disease, it is important to visit a periodontics office to see a gum disease specialist. Gum disease is an infection and can increase the likelihood of you developing general health issues, like stroke and heart disease, if the infection enters the bloodstream. Also, gum disease is the principal cause of tooth loss in adults because it destroys the ligaments, bone, and gums that hold teeth in place. Most individuals worry about their teeth, but fail to realize gum health is just as important. You can help needing periodontics in Old Bridge by practicing good oral care, like brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day, not using tobacco, and eating a healthy diet.

We are always ready to get your gum health in tip-top shape. Call us at Old Bridge Dental to make an appointment with our periodontist in Old Bridge if you need periodontal services.

What Do Periodontists Do?

A gum disease specialist can perform the following periodontics in Old Bridge services:

Periodontal Disease Treatment

With periodontal disease, your gums can start pulling away from your teeth, allowing infection-causing plaque to accumulate in the pockets. A typical treatment is a deep cleaning, which differs from a regular dental cleaning. A deep cleaning removes any infection in the pockets and makes it easier for the gums to reattach to the teeth. There are other treatments as well, including pocket reduction surgery. You will also need regular maintenance visits at our periodontics in Old Bridge office.

Crown Lengthening

This procedure removes some gum tissue so your teeth appear longer. You might need this if you're getting a crown, so a crown will need enough tooth to adhere to, so it stays put. This also applies to dental bridges, which have crowns on each side of them. It can also be done for cosmetic reasons to fix a gummy smile. People with gummy smiles often feel that their teeth look too short. The teeth are not too short; there is too much gum tissue.

Gum Grafting

If your gums receded, it can expose the roots. This looks unattractive, it will cause tooth sensitivity and the exposed area is vulnerable to damage from decay. The bone that holds your teeth in place may deteriorate, resulting in eventual tooth loss. Gums are a protective seal around your teeth. The tissue for the graft will usually come from the roof of your mouth or other healthy tissue in your mouth. It may take several weeks to see the results of the procedure.

Dental Implant Placement

Dental implants are screws, usually made from titanium, that are inserted directly into your jawbone. Dentists often refer patients to periodontists for implant placements and then place the crown on the implant themselves. The placement is extremely important as the implant acts like a tooth root. It must be placed perfectly to ensure the implant will last a lifetime. Periodontists do a comprehensive periodontal examination before placing implants.

Oral Cancer Diagnosis

Your specialist dentist is more than a gum disease expert. We can take a sample of any abnormal tissue in your mouth and send it to a lab for testing by a pathologist. If the tissue is cancerous, we will talk to you about your specific cancer can be treated.

While some of these procedures sound like they might be painful, your comfort is our top priority. If you call us for a consultation regarding any of these procedures, we'll talk to you about how we can help you manage the pain and anxiety you may feel. We offer a variety of sedation options, including laughing gas, to ensure your comfort.

Where Can I Get a Consultation with a Periodontist in Old Bridge?

Your gums are an important part of your smile. When they are a healthy pink, they frame your teeth when you smile. At Old Bridge Dental, we focus on gym health. Call us at (732) 967-2214 to schedule your consultation today. We look forward to helping you achieve better gum health.