Periodontal TherapyAn Overview
Periodontics is a specialty of dentistry that focuses primarily on the treatment and prevention of gum disease, as well as the placement of dental implants. The goal of periodontal therapy is to prevent and treat the signs and symptoms of gum disease.
We are fortunate to have Dr. David Heering, a specialist in periodontics and implantology, on staff for periodontal, implant and oral surgery procedures including wisdom teeth extraction. Dr. Heering’s experience and expertise allow us to provide advanced treatment options in the convenience of our Pennington dental office.
Gum Disease Facts
- Gum disease affects approximately 75% of American adults
- Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults
- Gum disease is contributing factor to heart disease and diabetes
Routine dental care is the best way to prevent gum disease. Your dental care routine should include daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist for professional dental cleanings and examinations.
Causes & Symptoms of Gum Disease
There is no single cause of gum disease one or several factors may contribute to gum disease including stress, teeth grinding, smoking or tobacco use, genetic predisposition, pregnancy and other hormonal changes, and poor oral hygiene.
Gum disease is known as a “silent disease”, with many people having no obvious signs or symptoms until advanced stages of the condition. Common signs of gum disease may include:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dentures
The Best Care! Going to Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci's office is unlike any other experience. It may be true that many folks don't like going to the dentist, but this office is loaded with smart and experienced professionals. Not to mention, the staff is friendly, thoughtful and always looks out for you.…Joe O.
You have been such a great support in the care for our mother over these years. I wanted to keep her pain free and you helped us with that. The last miraculous feat was the saving of that front tooth that broke. It made me smile because she hated that…Brenda
I always have an outstanding visit and just recently referred two more people who raved about the experience they had! The proper time and attention to detail is always taken on every appointment.Lisa C.
Periodontal Therapy What to Expect
We offer a range of treatment options for patients with gum disease. Our goal is to provide the most conservative treatment possible and limit surgery to the areas where it is absolutely necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Even in severe cases, non-surgical periodontal therapy almost always precedes surgical treatment. This allows the Periodontist to improve the overall tissue quality prior to surgery and limit the areas requiring surgery.
- Scaling and Root Planing
The first line of treatment for periodontal therapy is an intensive cleaning called scaling, to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line. The tooth roots may also be planed to smooth root surfaces, allowing gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth.
- Antibiotic Rinses
The dentist may also use antibiotic mouth rinses to control the growth of bacteria in the mouth. The Periodontist or hygienist may place antibiotic fibers in the gum pockets after scaling and planing. This will control infection and encourage healing.
Periodontal Surgery
Dr. Heering provides a range of surgical treatment including cosmetic periodontal surgery, gum grafting, crown lengthening and dental implants.
- Gum Grafting
Gum disease may be accompanied by gum recession. Receding gums can result in tooth sensitivity and unsightly appearance of gums and teeth. Gum grafting is a treatment to reverse gum recession, restoring health and beauty to the teeth. Dr. Heering will place a thin piece of tissue, generally taken from the roof of the mouth or adjacent areas, to cover the exposed portion of the root.
- Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening may be performed as a cosmetic procedure or a restorative procedure. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile because of short teeth, the Periodontist may uncover tooth structure by reshaping the gum tissue. Crown lengthening may also be performed during restorative treatment to ensure your new restoration (such as a dental crown) will remain secure and healthy.
- Dental Implants
The office of Donna Vagnozzi-Bucci, DMD is one of the few general dental offices in the Princeton/Trenton area to offers complete dental implant services. Dr. Heering provides skilled surgical placement and restoration of dental implants in the comfort of our Pennington office. Dr. Heering will place the dental implant and one of our cosmetic dentists will restore the artificial tooth using a dental crown, bridge or denture. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or an entire set of missing teeth. Learn more about Dental Implants
