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 surgeon?

No referral is required in most cases. You can contact Rockland Dental Specialists directly to schedule an oral surgery consultation.

Does a tooth extraction remove the root?

Yes. A standard tooth extraction removes the entire tooth including the root. The root is not left behind in the jaw.

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

Wisdom teeth removal is the surgical extraction of the third molars. It is recommended when they are impacted, causing crowding, pain, infection, or damaging adjacent teeth.

What is IV sedation, and is it safe for dental procedures?

IV sedation delivers sedative medication through a vein, producing a deeply relaxed state during the procedure. It is safe when administered by trained oral surgeons and is commonly used for wisdom tooth removal and implant procedures.

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

An oral biopsy removes a small sample of abnormal tissue for laboratory analysis. Most oral growths are benign, but biopsy is the only definitive way to rule out cancer. Early evaluation is always recommended.

What should I expect during recovery from oral surgery?

Recovery varies by procedure. Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort for several days. Following post-operative instructions — including rest, soft foods, and prescribed medications — supports faster healing.

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

You should see an oral surgeon when a procedure requires advanced training, hospital privileges, IV sedation, or management of complex medical conditions. Impacted teeth, facial trauma, and atypical infections are examples.

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.

MEET PERIODONTIST

DR. GEORGE ILENIKHENA, DDS

Few things matter more to a patient sitting in an endodontist’s chair than knowing the person across from them is genuinely invested in their comfort and well-being. Dr. George Ilenikhena, DDS, brings that commitment to every appointment, delivering premium, patient-centered endodontic care with an emphasis on comfort, compassion, and precision. At Rockland Dental Specialists, patients benefit from his advanced training, his dedication to evidence-based care, and his belief that a warm, relaxed environment is just as important as clinical excellence.

Dr. George’s academic record reflects a long-standing commitment to the field. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he graduated magna cum laude, and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery with distinction from the University of North Carolina, graduating summa cum laude. He was honored with the prestigious International Academy of Dentistry Leadership Award, recognizing his efforts to increase access to care for underserved communities. He practices alongside Dr. Shalom Mintz, Dr. Lisa Nava Cohen, Dr. David Peto, and a team of periodontists, endodontists, and implant specialists, bringing decades of combined experience to patients throughout Rockland County.

Advanced Training in Endodontics and Microsurgery

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. George completed advanced residency training in endodontics and microsurgery at the University of Pennsylvania. During his time there, he developed proficiency in all aspects of surgical and non-surgical endodontic therapy and taught endodontic microsurgery, including apicoectomy, to an international audience. That level of training positions him to handle complex cases with confidence and provide patients with outcomes grounded in the most current techniques available.

His clinical approach centers on transparency and communication. Dr. George believes transparency and communication are essential to building a foundation of trust and creating a personalized treatment approach. The result is a personalized experience that prioritizes pain-free therapy, clinical precision, and the preservation of natural teeth. Patients seeking root canal therapy or endodontic retreatment will find an environment designed to put them at ease from the moment they arrive.

Commitment to Continuing Education

As a member of the American Association of Endodontists and other dental professional organizations, Dr. George remains actively engaged in continuing education and stays informed of emerging research, technology, and techniques in the field. That ongoing engagement directly benefits his patients, who receive care reflecting the latest thinking in endodontic practice.

Dr. George also blends his clinical knowledge with innovative technology, using advanced tools to enhance both diagnosis and treatment delivery. Whether performing a routine root canal or a more complex microsurgical procedure, he brings the same level of precision and care to every case.

Outside the Office

Outside of the practice, Dr. George is an avid traveler and fitness enthusiast who enjoys reading, exploring New York City, and spending time with friends and family. Those who meet him quickly discover the same warmth and attentiveness in his personal interactions that patients experience during their appointments.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. George Ilenikhena at Rockland Dental Specialists

Dr. George Ilenikhena joins a dedicated team of periodontists, implant specialists, and endodontists committed to providing the highest quality care to patients throughout Rockland County and the surrounding area. From non-surgical endodontic therapy to advanced microsurgical procedures, our practice offers a comprehensive range of services in a comfortable, patient-first endodontic environment.

To request an appointment with Dr. Ilenikhena or any member of our team, contact our office today.

CONTACT

If you have any questions or comments please complete the form below. Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you.

VISIT

873 ROUTE 45 SUITE 201 NEW CITY, NY 10956

CORNER ROUTE 45 & NEW HEMPSTEAD ROAD

DIRECTIONS

CALL

(845) 259-2500

FAX

(845) 406-4048