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 5 of 17 - Rockland Dental Specialists

A male dentist in uniform perform dental implantation operation

Platelet-Rich Fibrin: Using Your Body’s Natural Healing Factors in Dental Surgery

Dental TreatmentBy rockland August 21, 2025

Your body has remarkable healing abilities that dental science can now harness to improve surgical outcomes and speed recovery. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) represents one of the most exciting advances in oral surgery, using your own blood components to enhance healing after dental procedures. This natural approach reduces complications and promotes faster tissue regeneration without relying…

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Signs You May Need a Gum Disease Screening

Dental TreatmentBy rockland June 10, 2025

The subtle warning signals of gum disease often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred, leaving many patients with advanced conditions that could have been addressed earlier. Periodontal disease affects nearly half of all Americans over 30, yet many remain unaware of the warning signs until the condition has progressed significantly. Recognizing these early indicators…

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What Happens if You Ignore Gum Recession?

Dental DiseaseBy rockland April 27, 2025

Gum recession occurs when the margin of gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. While you might initially notice only minor sensitivity or aesthetic changes, ignoring gum recession can lead to severe consequences including tooth loss, bone deterioration, and potentially contribute to systemic health…

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How Periodontal Health Impacts Heart Health: What You Need to Know

Dental TreatmentBy rockland April 18, 2025

The connection between your mouth and heart is more significant than you might realize. Research increasingly shows that periodontal disease—a chronic bacterial infection affecting the gums and bone supporting your teeth—may contribute to heart disease, the leading cause of death in America. When oral bacteria enter your bloodstream through inflamed or bleeding gums, they can…

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What Can 3D Digital Imaging Reveal Before Your Dental Implant Procedure?

Dental TreatmentBy rockland April 9, 2025

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3 Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy

Dental TreatmentBy rockland March 28, 2025

Struggling with persistent jaw pain, difficulty swallowing, or recurring tension headaches? These seemingly unrelated symptoms may stem from orofacial muscle dysfunction—a condition affecting the complex network of muscles in your face, mouth, and neck. Myofunctional therapy offers a non-invasive, exercise-based approach to retrain these vital muscles, potentially alleviating symptoms and improving your overall oral health…

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Root Canal Still Hurting? Signs You May Need Endodontic Retreatment

Dental TreatmentBy rockland March 18, 2025

A successful root canal procedure should relieve pain, clear infection, and protect your tooth for years to come. Unfortunately, some may find that discomfort returns weeks, months, or even years after treatment. Persistent pain near a previously treated tooth, renewed sensitivity to temperature, and swelling in the surrounding gum tissue are not symptoms to wait…

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Daily Dental Implant Care Habits That Protect Your Investment for Life

Dental ImplantsBy rockland March 9, 2025

Most people assume that dental implants are maintenance-free once they are placed, since titanium itself doesn’t decay. However, skipping proper care is one of the most common reasons implants fail years earlier than they should. Peri-implantitis, the bacterial infection that attacks tissue around the implant, is far more preventable than most patients realize. Developing a…

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Can Crooked Teeth Cause Gum Problems?

Dental DiseaseBy rockland February 23, 2025

Crooked teeth affect more than just appearance – they can also harm your oral health. Misaligned teeth often lead to gum issues, such as inflammation and an increased risk of gum disease. Proper alignment helps maintain healthy gums and prevents complications. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we explain how misalignment affects oral health. Our team prioritizes…

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