If you have recently been diagnosed with gum disease, it is likely your dentist recommended you see a periodontist. If this is your first time visiting a periodontist Rochester NY, you may be wondering what Dr. Zahavi can do to help. Here is an overview of what a periodontist helps with:
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in the prevention and treatment of conditions that affect the gums, teeth, and jaw. Periodontists are skilled in performing several procedures that treat various oral conditions, including dental implants and gum surgeries. The American Board of Periodontology is an excellent resource to check the qualifications of periodontal surgeons in Rochester NY, and to help find a board-certified periodontist.
There are many reasons why you may need to see a periodontist, from sore gums to a serious infection. Rest assured, your periodontist Rochester NY can help with several different conditions. Let’s review a few of the reasons you may need to make a periodontal appointment and then a few possible treatment options.
When Should I See a Periodontist?
Below are a few examples of when it is time to visit your Periodontist:
- Sore, swollen, or bleeding gums
- An infection of the gums
- You notice a change in your bite
- Having teeth that feel loose or ‘out of place’
- Any pain or discomfort in your teeth, gums, or jaw
- If you notice your teeth look uneven
- Your gums have started to recede
- Consistent bad breath
- If your general dentist recommends you schedule an appointment
- If you have diabetes, heart disease, or another condition that correlates with periodontitis.
If you have experienced any of the items listed above, it is essential to reach out to a periodontist right away to schedule an appointment for evaluation and to discuss diagnosis and treatment options.
What Can a Periodontist Rochester NY Do For Me?
Possible periodontal treatment options are listed below:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent option for patients who need teeth replaced or dentures secured. Dental implants look natural and function very similarly to natural teeth— giving you a smile you love as well as comfort knowing that they are permanent! Dental implants are only for patients who are over the age of 18 as younger patients’ jaw moves and changes.
Gum Surgery
Gum surgery is a broad term that encapsulates several different procedures that fix gums that have been damaged by periodontal disease. Periodontal disease affects each person differently, and depending on the severity of the infection, it causes different issues. The following procedures treat the effects of gum disease and help to prevent infection in the future:
- Crown lengthening
- Pocket depth reduction
- Regeneration
- Soft tissue grafts
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a safe solution for patients who experience extreme anxiety surrounding dental procedures, patients who have a low pain threshold or overly sensitive teeth, as well as patients who have a sensitive gag reflex. These conditions frequently cause patients to avoid visiting the dentist and can lead to poor oral hygiene. Sedation dentistry is a safe way to maintain proper oral health without fear, anxiety, or pain.
Sedation dentistry is also frequently used when patients have a large amount of work that needs to be done. This makes it much easier for the patient to achieve optimal oral health.
Aesthetic Dentistry
Aesthetic dentistry is for patients who want to improve the aesthetics of their smile. Patients who have an uneven gum line or who are experiencing natural effects of aging, such as discoloration or receding gum lines, benefit from aesthetic procedures. Some aesthetic procedures include:
Crown Lengthening
This procedure evens out the length of teeth which look longer or shorter than the others. Often, your teeth are all the same length, but sometimes there may be excess gum tissue, making your gumline uneven. Crown lengthening procedure removes the excess gum tissue, leaving you with a perfect, even smile.
Soft Tissue Grafts
In this procedure, Dr. Zahavi sutures graft tissue to existing gums surrounding a tooth with an exposed root. As the tissue heals, it blends with the existing gum and looks natural and healthy.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is a safe and effective method for treating many cosmetic issues. Causing less pain and virtually no downtime, this is an excellent option for many patients.
Contact Dr. Zahavi for a Consultation
If you are experiencing any pain, discomfort, or unhappiness with your smile, contact Dr. Zahavi, your Rochester periodontist, today to get started working towards a beautiful, healthy smile. Call us today at 585.685-2005!