Gum Disease Treatment Services Windsor
It is not a given that we must lose teeth as we age. If we maintain good oral hygiene and have regular professional cleanings and oral examinations, chances are we can keep our natural teeth for life. That involves not only caring for the teeth themselves, but also the structures that surround them: the gums and tooth-supporting bone. Gum disease, which is a bacterial infection, threatens these supporting tissues. That is why dental professionals are always on the lookout for early signs that patients may not notice. When signs of trouble become apparent, periodontal therapy may be suggested.
Periodontal therapy can take various forms, but the goal is always to restore diseased tissues to health. Gum (periodontal) disease can spread from the gums to the bone that supports the teeth, and may even cause tooth loss in the most severe cases. There are very effective therapies to combat this, ranging from scalings (deep cleanings) that remove plaque and calculus (tartar) from beneath the gum line, to surgical repair of lost gum and bone tissue.
Call our office at (860)-688-3663 to learn more
Periodontal Therapy Procedures
Periodontal therapy includes both surgical and non-surgical techniques to restore health to the tissues that support the teeth (gums and bone) and prevent tooth loss. They include:
Scaling and Root Planing. These deep-cleaning techniques are the best starting point to control gum disease. Plaque and calculus (tartar) are removed from beneath the gum tissues, using hand scalers and/or ultrasonic instruments.
Gum Grafting. Sometimes it’s necessary to replace areas of lost gum tissue so that tooth roots are adequately protected. This can be accomplished by taking healthy gum tissue from one area of the mouth and moving it to where it is needed, or by using laboratory-processed donor tissue.
Periodontal Plastic Surgery
When used to describe surgery, the word “plastic” refers to any reshaping procedure that creates a more pleasing appearance of the gum tissues.
Periodontal Laser Treatment
Periodontal laser treatment involves removing diseased gum tissue with lasers that can offer significant advantages over conventional surgery, such as less discomfort and gum shrinkage.
Crown Lengthening Surgery
This is a surgical procedure in which tooth structure that is covered by gum and bone tissue may need to be exposed either for cosmetic reasons (too make the teeth look longer and the smile less gummy) or to aid in securing a new dental crown.
Dental Implants
Today’s preferred method of tooth replacement is a titanium dental implant, which is placed beneath the gum line and into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. The implant is then attached to a realistic-looking dental crown that is visible above the gum line and indistinguishable from a natural tooth.
Your Role in Periodontal Health
Dental plaque is the main cause of periodontal disease, so it’s essential to remove it every day with effective brushing and flossing. This doesn’t mean scrubbing, which can actually cause your gums to recede. Proper techniques can be demonstrated for you, if you have any questions.
Of course, there are some areas of the mouth that a toothbrush and floss just can’t reach, which is why it’s so important to have regular professional cleanings at the dental office. Your regular dental exam is also a time when early signs of gum disease can be detected — before they become apparent even to you.
Eating a nutritious diet low in sugar, and staying away from tobacco in all forms, will also increase your periodontal health — and your chances of keeping your teeth for life.
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, we can help you to treat and manage the condition by creating a care plan with the guidance of a dentist and hygienist. We offer periodontal treatment for all ages. Our pediatric periodontist can help your children achieve healthy gums.
Located right off Exit 38 off I 91 in Windsor, Ct, New England Dental Center is committed to being your local, complete cosmetic dental solution. Established as a multispecialty group practice in 1980, we provide the dental care you need and deserve in one convenient location. We want to help you begin your journey to a healthy and happy smile.
If you’re anxious going to the dentist, come to the professionals in Windsor, CT. We work hard to make you feel comfortable. Call today at (860) 688-3663.
Periodontist’s Serving Hartford County, CT
Located in Windsor, CT, our professional and personable periodontists are available to serve the residents and visitors of Hartford County, including Bloomfield, Enfield, and Windsor Locks.
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Patient Review
Pat Arnott
As always the staff was wonderful , extremely helpful and they are all so warm and welcoming which is hard to find but even harder to maintain and as long as we have been coming the staff makes us all feel like we are part of their family. The Doctors are also very caring in dealing with me acting like a baby when it comes to needles and such. We couldn’t recommend them high enough
We serve Hartford County, CT and surrounding areas, including Windsor Locks, Enfield, and Bloomfield
Frequently Asked Periodontal Questions
Do you need a root canal for periodontal disease?
No, a root canal and periodontal disease address different problems. Root canals treat infection inside the tooth, while periodontal disease affects the gums and supporting bone. The correct treatment depends on the specific cause of the issue.
How painful is periodontal treatment?
Is periodontal treatment worth it?
How long does periodontitis take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks, while advanced periodontitis often requires ongoing treatment and maintenance. Consistent follow-up care is essential for lasting results.
Can gums heal from periodontitis?
Gums can improve and inflammation can be reduced with proper periodontal treatment. However, damage such as bone loss may be permanent. Long-term success depends on good oral hygiene and regular professional care.
Can a general dentist treat periodontitis?
General dentists can treat mild to moderate periodontitis with procedures such as scaling and root planing. More advanced or complex cases may be referred to a periodontist for specialized treatment.
Is a periodontist better than a dentist?
Periodontists specialize in the treatment of gum disease and supporting structures of the teeth. General dentists provide broader dental care, including preventive and restorative services. Both often work together to ensure comprehensive treatment.
Should I go straight to a periodontist?
This depends on the severity of your symptoms. A general dentist can evaluate early concerns, but advanced or persistent gum disease may require direct care from a periodontist. Referrals are commonly made when specialized treatment is needed.
When should a patient be referred to a periodontist?
Patients are typically referred to a periodontist when gum disease is severe, progressing, or not responding to standard treatment. Complex cases involving surgery or advanced bone loss often require specialized periodontal care.
What happens if periodontal disease goes untreated?
