Periodontal Disease Treatment

Gum regeneration is a process where gum tissue is encouraged by dental implants or grafts to form a tighter fit around the tooth or the area that has been affected by periodontal disease and needs to be strengthened. Periodontal disease loosens the hold of the gum around the tooth, and pockets form where disease-causing bacteria may settle. With this safe and quick procedure, performed by our periodontist, Dr. Julie Pastagia, the gums can be reconstructed more naturally, helping to eliminate the possibility of disease from further deterioration and future tooth extraction.

One of the effects of periodontal disease is the destruction of the tissue and bone supporting the tooth. The first step in the gum regeneration process is to eliminate existing bacteria that have developed in these pockets between the gum and tooth. A local anesthetic is used before the procedure is performed, to insure the comfort of the patient.

The gum is regenerated using a bone and or tissue graft or implant that helps to grow new cells to replace the ones that have been lost. Grafts or implants can be taken from several different sources, including synthetic material or from cadavers at tissue banks, but it has been generally agreed that using the patient’s own tissue warrants the best results. The graft is normally taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin, or in the upper jaw behind the last molar. The patient’s blood helps to promote new tissue growth and accelerate bone formation in the affected area. The graft/implant is secured between the gum and tooth to provide a natural, snug fit.

In the event that an original tooth has to be extracted, the bone and tissue grafting and implanting are done quickly to maximize the option of regeneration. After an extraction, the bone is very thin in the area. The possibility of the bone shrinking and diminishing is very high if left too long without proper treatment. The graft will preserve the bone and gum line in the smile zone, helping the patient to achieve the most natural looking smile possible.

Upon preparation for an implant needed, our gum disease expert Dr. Julie Pastagia, may occasionally find there is not enough bone in the upper jaw to support the implant. This is often the case when the sinus cavity is too close in proximity to the jaw. A sinus lift can raise the floor of the sinus, promoting bone growth that aids in dental implants. A bone graft is taken from the patient’s body, from the mouth or hip, or from a donor site, and grafted into a small pocket in between the jaw and the floor of the sinus. This pushes the floor up and away from the jaw. The area will be ready for the implant after four to nine months, allowing time for the grafted material to fully heal and mesh with the existing tissue. Patient can feel safe & secure, knowing that the graft will dramatically increase the life and the appearance of the implant for many years.

Most patients experience a little discomfort after the sinus lift procedure, and our doctor can prescribe a mild pain medication along with antibiotics and a bacteria-fighting mouthwash to ease the healing process. A saline spray is also recommended to patients to assist in keeping the inner lining of the nose wet, and to prevent sneezing.

Gum regeneration is also implemented when the gums have begun to recede, leaving the mouth vulnerable. The receding gum opens areas for unwanted bacteria and infection, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, an uneven and unsightly appearance, and potential exposure of the root. This root is softer than your tooth enamel, and being unprotected can lead to root decay and gouging. Our gum specialists Dr. Julie Pastagia, will recommend a gum graft, which will aim to stabilize the gum.

If you have any questions regarding gum regeneration or have been affected by periodontal disease and wish to speak to the Dr. Julie Pastagia, our gum disease specialist at Luxury Dentistry NYC about your options, please contact us for a consultation.