Periodontal Care in Long Island City, NY
During routine dental visits, our team is examining the health and appearance of your teeth, but did you know that your dentist is also assessing the health of your gums as well? Taking great care of your gums is incredibly important for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. To learn more about periodontal care or schedule a visit with our team, please contact us!
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What are the signs of periodontal disease?
Gum disease always begins as gingivitis, which is the mildest form of gum disease and the only stage when it is completely reversible. Symptoms usually include redder or darker gums, puffy gums, gum sensitivity, and gum bleeding. Gingivitis can be treated with an enhanced at-home oral care routine and regular dental visits. Once it progresses into periodontal disease, routine deep cleanings that involve scaling and root planing must be performed to keep the teeth and gums as clean and healthy as possible.
What’s the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
Routine dental cleanings focus on clearing away plaque and tartar that collects in between the teeth, along the gum line, and other areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush. Deep cleanings are much more focused on the health of the patient’s gums, and they involve clearing out the tartar that has collected beneath the gum line in the gum pockets. It’s imperative that the gums be thoroughly cleaned, otherwise, the patient’s teeth, gums, and jawbone may become damaged.
What are the four stages of gum disease?
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the condition is reversible with professional dental cleanings and improved at-home care, including daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can advance to early periodontitis. Plaque hardens into tartar below the gumline, causing gums to pull away from teeth and form pockets. Treatment typically involves scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning procedure that removes bacteria from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to encourage healing and prevent further damage.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
At this stage, gum and bone loss become more noticeable, and teeth may begin to loosen. Patients may experience persistent bad breath, gum recession, or discomfort while chewing. Treatment often includes scaling and root planing, along with possible antibiotic therapy to control infection. In some cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to clean deeper areas and reduce pocket depth.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage, marked by significant bone loss, loose or shifting teeth, and even tooth loss. Gums may recede dramatically, and infection may spread deeper into supporting structures. Treatment may involve periodontal surgery, bone or gum grafts, and in some cases, tooth extractions and replacements. Lifelong maintenance is required to manage this stage effectively.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is most frequently caused by poor oral hygiene and inadequate dental care. Other factors that influence gum disease include hormones, certain medications, and genetics. Regardless of why your gums need some extra TLC, our team at Queensboro Plaza Dental Care is here to assist. When left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth decay, tooth loss, gum recession, and jawbone deterioration. Receiving a diagnosis and following your custom treatment plan will put you on track to have the healthiest smile possible.
