Last week, we discussed the connection between periodontal disease and heart health. In the same blog, we defined what periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is. To refresh your memory, Tribeca holistic dentist Dr. Lewis Gross wants to remind you what periodontal disease is, and he wants to tell you about possible treatments for this serious oral health problem that adhere to his holistic philosophy.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious condition in which the gingival (gum) tissue surrounding the teeth becomes infected by built-up plaque and harmful bacteria. This colonization of bacteria causes the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, forming deep periodontal pockets. When left untreated, gum disease can destroy your gum tissue, your teeth, and the jawbone underneath.

How is Periodontal Disease Treated Holistically?

Sticking to his holistic dentistry philosophy, Dr. Lewis Gross offers several professional treatment options for patients with periodontal disease.

For patients with mild gum disease, medically referred to as gingivitis, scaling and root planing are usually the first treatment options. During this procedure, Dr. Lewis Gross will clean between the gums and teeth—all the way down to the dental roots, if necessary—to clear the infected gum tissue. If effective, root planing and scaling should give the periodontal pockets the chance to heal. Following this procedure, Dr. Lewis Gross will advise on future professional dental care and dental hygiene to maintain a healthy oral environment.

For patients with moderate gum disease, more extensive scaling and root planing is often required. This procedure is usually performed using a high-tech dental laser for added precision, comfort, and effectiveness.

When the periodontal disease is in the advanced stages, with periodontal pockets measuring more than 6mm, bone loss and/or gum recession tend to complicate the treatment process. Scaling and root planing will be performed to eliminate as much of the infection as possible, and Dr. Lewis Gross may suggest surgical options to reduce pocket depth and keep any remaining healthy gum tissue intact.

Other holistic treatments for periodontal disease include: oral antibiotics, topical gels and strips, homeopathic dentistry, herbal remedies, and periodontal pocket irrigation.

To find out more about treatment for periodontal disease, or to reserve an appointment with Dr. Lewis Gross, contact Holistic Dentists, located in Tribeca, New York, at (212) 732-2200 or online at holistic-dentists.com.