Gum Disease Treatment in Long Island

Don't ignore bleeding gums. Meadowbrook Dental Care offers expert gum disease treatment in Long Island, including deep cleanings & laser therapy. Schedule a consultation.

What is Gum Disease? Protecting Your Smile's Foundation

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults; however, the good news is that it is both preventable and treatable, especially when detected early. The condition begins when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and hardens into tartar. This buildup can cause inflammation and have serious consequences for both your oral and overall health. At Meadowbrook Dental Care, we provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for all stages of gum disease, helping our Long Island patients protect the essential foundation of their smiles.

The Stages of Gum Disease and How We Treat Them

Understanding the progression of gum disease is key to seeking timely treatment. There are two primary stages:

Gingivitis: This is the earliest and only reversible stage. It is characterized by red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup along the gum line and can typically be completely resolved with a professional dental cleaning and improved daily oral hygiene.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to this more serious, destructive stage. At this point, the infection has spread below the gum line, and the body's response begins to break down the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth. This creates "pockets" between the gums and teeth, leading to gum recession, loose teeth, and eventual tooth loss. The primary treatment for periodontitis is a therapeutic deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. For more advanced cases, we also offer state-of-the-art laser gum therapy as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery.

Your Gum Disease Questions Answered

What are the most common signs of gum disease? The most common early sign is bleeding gums that occur when brushing or flossing. Other symptoms include red, swollen, or tender gums, persistent bad breath, gums that have pulled away from your teeth, and loose teeth in more advanced stages.
How is a deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning? A regular cleaning is preventive and focuses on the visible parts of your teeth. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a treatment to remove tartar and bacteria from deep below the gum line and on the root surfaces, which is necessary to treat active periodontitis.
Can gum disease be cured? Gingivitis is entirely curable. Periodontitis is a chronic condition that cannot be "cured." Still, it can be successfully managed and controlled with professional treatment and ongoing periodontal maintenance cleanings (typically every 3-4 months) to prevent its progression.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems? Yes. A significant body of research known as the "mouth-body connection" has linked chronic gum disease to an increased risk for systemic health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Why Choose Us for Gum Disease Treatment

Protecting your gums is crucial for maintaining both your oral and overall health. Our team at Meadowbrook Dental Care has the expertise and technology to manage gum disease effectively.

A Focus on Early Detection: Our comprehensive exams are designed to detect the earliest signs of gum disease, enabling more conservative and effective treatment.
Advanced Treatment Options: We offer a full range of periodontal therapies, from deep cleanings to state-of-the-art, minimally invasive laser gum therapy for more advanced cases.
A Highly Skilled Team: Our dentists and hygienists have extensive experience in periodontal health, providing meticulous care to halt the progression of the disease.
Care in Convenient Long Island Locations: We provide expert gum disease treatment for our communities at both our Plainview and Mineola offices.