121 Jericho Turnpike Mineola, NY 11501
Keep Your Gums Strong for Life
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral health conditions, and one of the most preventable when caught early. It begins with plaque buildup along and below the gumline, which, left untreated, can progress from mild inflammation to more advanced disease that affects the bone and tissue supporting your teeth.
At PM Dental Care, our doctors evaluate the health of your gums at every routine visit, measuring for early warning signs long before you might notice symptoms yourself. When gum disease is present, we build a treatment plan tailored to the stage and severity of your condition, ranging from a more thorough cleaning to more advanced periodontal therapy. Our team treats patients dealing with gum disease throughout Mineola, NY and surrounding communities, including Garden City, New Hyde Park, East Williston and Roslyn Heights.
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Why Treating Gum Disease Early Matters
Addressing gum disease promptly protects far more than just your gums:
- Preserves the bone and tissue that hold your teeth securely in place
- Reduces the risk of tooth loss, since advanced gum disease is a leading cause of adult tooth loss
- Improves bad breath caused by bacteria trapped beneath the gumline
- Supports overall health, since gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular issues and other systemic conditions
- Prevents more costly treatment later, as early-stage gum disease is far easier and less expensive to manage than advanced periodontal disease
Signs You May Need Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease often develops gradually, and many patients don't notice symptoms until the condition has progressed. You may benefit from gum disease treatment if you are experiencing:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath that does not improve with brushing
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Even without noticeable symptoms, our doctors regularly check for early signs of gum disease during routine exams, since catching it early makes treatment simpler and more effective.
How We Treat Gum Disease, Step by Step
Depending on the severity of your condition, your treatment plan may include one or more of the following steps:
1
Periodontal Evaluation
Our doctors assess your gum health, measuring pocket depth around each tooth and reviewing X-rays to determine the extent of bone or tissue involvement.
2
Scaling and Root Planing
For early to moderate gum disease, a deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth root to help gums reattach and heal.
3
Antibiotic Therapy
In some cases, a localized antibiotic treatment, such as Arestin, is placed directly into affected gum pockets to help reduce bacteria and support healing.
4
Laser Therapy
For certain patients, gum disease laser therapy offers a precise, minimally invasive way to target infected tissue while promoting faster healing.
5
Periodontal Maintenance
Once active treatment is complete, ongoing periodontal maintenance cleanings, typically every three to four months, help manage gum disease and prevent it from returning.
6
Progress Monitoring
We continue to monitor your gum health at each visit, adjusting your care plan as needed to keep your gums stable and healthy long term.
Maintaining Your Results After Treatment
Successfully treating gum disease is only part of the process. Long-term gum health depends on consistent daily care and regular professional maintenance. We recommend brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and keeping up with the periodontal maintenance schedule your doctor recommends, even after your gums appear healthy again. Since gum disease can be managed but not always fully cured, ongoing monitoring is the best way to catch any recurrence early and avoid a return to more advanced treatment.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Gum disease is manageable when caught early, but it rarely improves without treatment. Schedule an evaluation with our team at PM Dental Care in Mineola, NY to find out which treatment option is right for you.
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