Protecting
The Foundation of Your Smile
Healthy gums are just as important as healthy teeth. They provide the foundation that supports your smile and protects the bone that keeps teeth in place. Unfortunately, gum disease is common, affecting more than 80 percent of adults at some stage. At Long Island Family Dental, we offer both preventive and advanced periodontal care to restore gum health and help patients maintain strong, lasting smiles.
Periodontics is an advanced therapy. Should your condition require advanced periodontal therapy or surgical treatment, a Periodontist (gum specialist) is available on staff right here in our office.
Over 80 percent of the population has some form of gum disease, whether you have Gingivitis (gum inflammation) or severe Periodontal Disease (soft and hard tissue tooth support loss), we can treat and help you maintain proper oral health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It often begins as gingivitis, which causes red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where infection damages the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. It is the leading cause of tooth loss today, and current research is suggesting links to heart disease, premature birth, and diabetic complications, to cite some examples.
Over time, advanced gum disease can lead to:
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Tooth loss
Research has also linked periodontal disease to serious health concerns, including heart disease, diabetes complications, and premature birth. This makes periodontal care important not just for your oral health, but also for your overall well-being.
Periodontal Therapy at Long Island Family Dental
We provide a wide range of periodontal treatments right here in our Melville office. Depending on the stage of gum disease, care may include:
Non-Surgical Gum Therapy
Early stages of gum disease can often be managed with scaling and root planing, a deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gum line. This allows gums to heal and reattach to the tooth surface. Non-surgical treatment is non-invasive and helps prevent further progression.
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Advanced Periodontal Care
For more complex cases, we provide access to an on-staff periodontist (gum specialist). Surgical treatments may be recommended to restore gum tissue, regenerate bone, or reshape the gum line for better support. Having a periodontist in-office means you can receive specialized care without needing an outside referral.
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Importance of Periodontal Care
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults today. Even if your teeth are healthy, ignoring gum problems can threaten your entire smile. Regular periodontal care provides benefits such as:
- Preserving your natural teeth
- Preventing bone loss around the jaw
- Reducing inflammation linked to systemic health conditions
- Improving breath and comfort
- Enhancing the appearance of your smile
By addressing gum health early, you reduce the risk of long-term damage and protect both your oral and overall health.
Signs You May Need Periodontal Treatment
Many people don’t realize they have gum disease because symptoms can be mild in the beginning. Some warning signs include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Gum recession, making teeth look longer
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice any of these signs, scheduling an evaluation is important. With timely treatment, we can often reverse or control gum disease before it causes lasting harm.
Schedule a
Periodontal Consultation
Periodontal therapy is most effective when combined with consistent maintenance. After initial treatment, many patients require more frequent cleanings, often every three to four months, to keep gum health under control.
If you’ve noticed signs of gum disease or have been told you need periodontal care, we can help. At Long Island Family Dental, we’re committed to providing effective, gentle treatment for healthier gums and lasting smiles.
Call us at (631) 423-5200 or visit us at 931 Walt Whitman Rd, Melville, NY 11747 to schedule your appointment today.