Is crown lengthening painful?

During the procedure you should feel no pain at all. Local anesthesia ensures the surgical site is completely numb, and sedation is available if needed. After the procedure, you may experience some tenderness in the treated gums, bone, and teeth. Over-the-counter pain medication is typically sufficient to manage any post-operative discomfort.

Who performs crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is performed by a periodontist. At Rockland Dental Specialists, Dr. Shalom Mintz, our board-certified periodontist and implantologist, performs crown lengthening for both cosmetic and restorative indications.

How long does crown lengthening recovery take?

The gums and bone require at least four to six weeks to heal fully before any further dental work can take place. Some cases may require a longer healing period depending on the extent of tissue removed.

What is a gummy smile and can crown lengthening fix it?

A gummy smile occurs when excess gum tissue is visible above the upper front teeth when smiling. Crown lengthening exposes the full anatomical crown of the teeth, creating a more balanced and proportionate smile.

Can crown lengthening be done on a single tooth?

Yes. When performed for restorative reasons it is typically done on a single tooth. Cosmetic crown lengthening often addresses multiple front teeth at once to create a balanced result.

When is crown lengthening necessary before a dental crown?

Crown lengthening is needed when decay or a fracture extends below the gumline, leaving insufficient tooth structure for a crown to grip securely. Removing gum and bone tissue creates the access needed to place a well-fitting, durable restoration.

What are the different types of dental implants?

Dental implants can replace a single tooth, support a multi-tooth bridge, or anchor a full-arch restoration using as few as four to six implants. They can also stabilize removable dentures and partials.

Why should I choose a periodontist for dental implants instead of a general dentist?

Periodontists complete three additional years of specialized training in bone, gum tissue, and implant placement. At Rockland Dental Specialists, Dr. Shalom Mintz and Dr. David Peto are board-certified periodontists and implantologists.

What happens during the dental implant procedure?

The process begins with 3D imaging and a consultation, followed by surgical implant placement into the jawbone under local anesthesia. After several months of osseointegration, a crown is attached to complete the restoration.

Do I need a bone graft before getting a dental implant?

Not every patient requires a bone graft. It is needed when there is insufficient jawbone volume to securely anchor the implant. Our team evaluates bone density using cone beam CT imaging during your consultation.

What is osseointegration, and why does it matter?

Osseointegration is the process by which the jawbone fuses to the titanium implant, creating a stable permanent anchor. This biological bond gives implants their strength and distinguishes them from bridges or dentures.

Can dental implants fail, and what causes failure?

Dental implants have a high success rate, but failure can occur due to insufficient bone, uncontrolled gum disease, smoking, or poor oral hygiene. Early intervention by a periodontist can often prevent full failure.

How do I care for a dental implant once it is placed?

Care for an implant like a natural tooth: brush twice daily, floss around the crown, and maintain regular periodontal cleanings. Monitoring for peri-implantitis is essential for long-term implant health.

Are dental implants in New City covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan. Some plans provide partial coverage, particularly for teeth lost due to injury or medical conditions. Rockland Dental Specialists offers complimentary insurance verifications and custom payment plans.

What are the signs of periodontal disease?

Common signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and deep pockets between the teeth and gums. In smokers, visible signs may be minimal even when disease is present.

Can periodontal disease be reversed?

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can be fully reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care. More advanced periodontal disease cannot be reversed, but it can be controlled and stabilized through periodontal treatment and ongoing maintenance.

Will a gum infection go away on its own?

No. Periodontal infections do not resolve without treatment. Without intervention, the infection progresses, destroying the bone and tissue that support the teeth, and can contribute to systemic health conditions.

How is periodontal disease connected to overall health?

Periodontal disease is associated with increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and has been linked to Alzheimer's disease. The bacteria and inflammation from untreated gum disease can enter the bloodstream and affect the rest of the body.

What are the stages of periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease progresses from gingivitis (reversible gum inflammation) through mild, moderate, and severe periodontitis, each involving increasing levels of bone and tissue loss around the teeth.

Can a periodontist place dental implants?

Yes. Periodontists are among the most qualified providers for dental implant placement because of their specialized training in the bone and gum tissue that support implants. At Rockland Dental Specialists, Dr. Shalom Mintz and Dr. David Peto are board-certified periodontists and implantologists.

Do I need a referral to see an oral surgery provider?

A referral is not always required. Many patients arrive after a recommendation from their general dentist, but you are welcome to contact our office directly if you have been told you need a complex extraction, wisdom tooth removal, or evaluation of an unusual growth in your mouth. Our team will review your situation and coordinate with your referring dentist as appropriate.

Does a tooth extraction remove the root?

Yes. A complete tooth extraction removes both the visible portion of the tooth and the root structure beneath the gum line. In surgical extractions, where a tooth is broken, impacted, or has curved roots, our team may need to section the tooth or carefully remove a small amount of surrounding bone to safely retrieve the entire root. Leaving root fragments behind can cause infection, so complete removal is always the goal.

What is wisdom teeth removal, and when is it necessary?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to develop, typically emerging in the late teens or early twenties. Many people do not have enough room in their jaw for these teeth to erupt properly, leading to impaction. Impacted wisdom teeth may cause pain, infection, pressure against neighboring teeth, or damage to adjacent roots. Removal is recommended when wisdom teeth are impacted, symptomatic, or at risk of causing problems down the line.

What is nitrous oxide sedation, and is it safe?

Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative inhaled through a small mask placed over the nose. It produces a relaxed, comfortable state without putting you to sleep. It is commonly offered for extractions, wisdom tooth removal, and other oral surgery procedures. Effects wear off quickly after the mask is removed, and most patients are able to resume light activity shortly after their appointment.

What is an oral biopsy, and should I be concerned?

An oral biopsy is a procedure to evaluate an unusual growth, sore, or lesion in the mouth that has not resolved on its own. A small tissue sample is removed and analyzed by a pathologist. Most oral growths are benign. The biopsy is both a diagnostic tool and a treatment, since the growth is typically fully removed during the procedure. Early evaluation is always the safer approach.

What should I expect during recovery from oral surgery?

Most patients experience some degree of swelling and mild discomfort for the first few days following surgery. Your provider will give specific post-operative instructions, which typically cover diet, activity restrictions, and managing discomfort. Attending follow-up appointments and following your aftercare plan carefully are the most important steps for healing well and avoiding complications. Most patients return to normal activity within a few days, though more involved procedures may require a longer recovery window.

When should I see an oral surgery provider instead of my general dentist?

Your general dentist will usually refer you to a specialist when the need arises. Common indicators for oral surgery evaluation include impacted wisdom teeth, complex extractions, unusual growths or lesions, the need for bone grafting prior to implants, and cases involving patients with complex medical histories. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons notes that oral surgery providers have additional training for managing complex surgical cases and anesthesia in outpatient settings.

LANAP stands for Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure. It is an FDA-cleared laser treatment for periodontal disease that uses a specific wavelength of laser energy to target diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact.

How is LANAP different from traditional gum surgery?

Traditional gum surgery requires cutting the gums with a scalpel and suturing them back. LANAP uses laser energy instead, with no cutting, no sutures, and significantly less post-operative pain and recovery time.

Can LANAP treat advanced periodontal disease?

Yes. LANAP is specifically designed for moderate to advanced periodontal disease. It can address deep pockets and bone loss that have not responded adequately to scaling and root planing alone.

Who is a good candidate for LANAP?

Most adults with chronic periodontal disease are candidates for LANAP. It is particularly beneficial for patients who are medically compromised, on blood thinners, or who have anxiety about traditional surgery.

What should I expect during a LANAP procedure?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The laser fiber is inserted into the periodontal pocket to remove diseased tissue and bacteria. Most patients return to normal activity within a day or two.

Can LANAP regenerate lost bone?

Yes. LANAP is one of the few periodontal treatments with clinical evidence supporting bone regeneration around treated teeth, not just stabilization of existing bone.

How does LANAP compare to osseous surgery for treating gum disease?

Both treat periodontal disease but through different approaches. LANAP is minimally invasive with faster recovery. Osseous surgery involves cutting and reshaping bone. The right choice depends on disease severity, anatomy, and patient health.

How do I know if I need LANAP or scaling and root planing?

A periodontal evaluation including X-rays and pocket depth measurements determines the extent of disease. Scaling and root planing is the first-line treatment. LANAP is typically recommended when disease is moderate to advanced or has not fully responded to non-surgical care.

Blog - Page 3 of 17 - Rockland Dental Specialists

Young attractive male patient sitting in dental chair pointing at teeth, having pain, talking with professional dentist doctor in modern dental clinic. Concept of dental care, health care

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental ImplantsBy Shalom Mintz February 2, 2026

Dental implants work for most people missing one or more teeth. You qualify as a candidate if you have adequate jawbone density to support the implant, healthy gums free from periodontal disease, and good overall health. Age is rarely a limiting factor, and conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis don’t automatically disqualify you, though they may…

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Professional Dentist showing jaw and teeth the x-ray photograph

Signs You May Need to See a Periodontist Instead of a General Dentist

Dental TreatmentBy Shalom Mintz January 15, 2026

You brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for checkups. But what happens when persistent gum bleeding, tooth mobility, or chronic bad breath refuses to resolve? These warning signs often indicate the need for advanced periodontal care beyond what general dentistry provides. Recognizing when to consult a periodontist can mean the difference between…

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Young patient with senior dentist during a medical consultation at the dental office

What to Expect During Your First Visit to a Periodontist

Dental TreatmentBy Shalom Mintz January 15, 2026

Your first visit to a periodontist marks an important step toward better oral health. Understanding what happens during this initial appointment can help you feel prepared and confident about receiving periodontal care. At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists create a welcoming environment where patients receive thorough evaluations and personalized treatment plans. The…

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Smiling woman at reception in dental clinic during procedure. Patient at dentist examines teeth in modern clinic. Overview of caries prevention. Medicine concept. Healthy teeth.

How Does LANAP Laser Treatment Differ from Traditional Gum Surgery?

Dental TreatmentBy Shalom Mintz January 15, 2026

LANAP laser treatment offers a less invasive alternative to traditional gum surgery for treating periodontal disease. Unlike conventional surgical approaches that require scalpels and sutures, LANAP uses a specialized dental laser to remove diseased tissue and promote healing while preserving healthy gum tissue. The result is typically less discomfort, faster recovery, and minimal disruption to…

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A man with toothache, periodontal disease in wisdom teeth, painful area highlighted in red

Is There a Link Between Periodontal Disease and Arthritis?

Dental DiseaseBy Shalom Mintz December 10, 2025

Research increasingly suggests a connection between periodontal disease and arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. Both conditions involve chronic inflammation that can affect multiple body systems. Bacteria from gum infections may trigger systemic inflammatory responses, potentially worsening arthritis symptoms or contributing to joint inflammation in susceptible individuals. If you’re experiencing gum problems and joint pain in New…

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Experience a deep clean and a radiant smile with professional teeth polishing This close-up shows a dental hygienist using a specialized tool to enhance oral health and shine

Scaling and Root Planing: What to Expect During Deep Cleaning

Dental ProceduresBy Shalom Mintz December 10, 2025

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that targets gum disease below the gumline. This non-surgical treatment removes plaque and tartar buildup from tooth roots, smoothing root surfaces to help the gums reattach. When you pay attention to early warning signs such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, you catch…

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Smiling senior woman with new dental implants sitting in the dental office and looking at the mirror

Ridge Augmentation: Preparing for Dental Implants

Dental ImplantsBy Shalom Mintz December 10, 2025

When tooth loss occurs, the jawbone begins to deteriorate rapidly, creating a ripple effect that threatens your oral health, facial structure, and candidacy for future dental restoration. Ridge augmentation rebuilds this compromised bone foundation, transforming what was once a barrier to treatment into a viable path forward. Suppose you’re considering dental implants in New York.…

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dentist and patient discussion about planned teeth treatment in dental clinic office

How Often Should You Get Follow-Ups After Periodontal Surgery?

Dental TreatmentBy Shalom Mintz November 26, 2025

Recovery from periodontal surgery requires careful monitoring to ensure your gums heal properly and your treatment achieves lasting results. The frequency of follow-up appointments varies based on the type of surgery you received, your healing progress, and your individual risk factors for gum disease recurrence. Typically, we see patients every 3 months after periodontal surgery…

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What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Investing in Dental Implants?

Dental ImplantsBy Shalom Mintz November 19, 2025

Missing teeth create challenges that extend far beyond appearance, affecting your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain confidence in social situations. Dental implants offer a permanent solution that addresses these concerns while providing benefits that traditional tooth replacement options cannot match. Understanding the long-term advantages of implants helps you make an informed decision…

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Female patient pointing her finger to her teeth, explaining her problem to a dentist wearing surgical mask in a dental clinic

Is Periodontal Surgery Painful?

Dental ProceduresBy Shalom Mintz October 16, 2025

One of the most common concerns patients express when facing periodontal surgery is whether the procedure will be painful. This anxiety is completely understandable, as the thought of any surgical procedure can feel intimidating. The reality is that modern periodontal surgery techniques, combined with effective anesthesia and pain management protocols, have made these procedures far…

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