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.

Frequently Asked Questions About the HealthyStart Program

What age is appropriate for the HealthyStart Program?

The HealthyStart Program is designed for children, typically starting as young as age two and continuing through adolescence. Early intervention is one of its core principles — addressing airway and jaw development while children are still growing produces better outcomes than waiting until the teeth are fully erupted and the bones have hardened.

How is HealthyStart different from traditional braces?

Traditional braces straighten teeth after they have already grown in crooked. HealthyStart works earlier, addressing the underlying causes of misalignment by developing the jaw and airway naturally during childhood. In many cases, this approach reduces or eliminates the need for braces later in life while also addressing breathing patterns, sleep quality, and tongue posture.

What conditions does the HealthyStart Program address?

HealthyStart addresses sleep-disordered breathing, mouth breathing, tongue thrust, thumb and finger sucking, and a range of dental conditions including overbite, underbite, crossbite, crowded teeth, and open bite. It has also been associated with improvements in symptoms connected to poor sleep quality such as difficulty concentrating, restless sleep, and bedwetting.

How long does the HealthyStart Program take?

The duration varies depending on the child's age, the severity of their condition, and how consistently the appliance is worn. Most programs last between 12 and 24 months. The appliances are typically worn during sleep and for a portion of the day, and your child will have regular check-in appointments to monitor progress throughout the program.

Is the HealthyStart Program painful?

The HealthyStart appliances are soft and flexible, making them comfortable to wear. Most children adjust to wearing them within a few days. Unlike traditional orthodontic appliances, there are no wires, brackets, or adjustments that cause soreness. Any initial discomfort is typically mild and short-lived.

Does insurance cover the HealthyStart Program?

Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. Some plans provide partial reimbursement under orthodontic or dental benefits, while others may not cover it at all. Our team can assist with insurance verification and review financing options with you so cost is not a barrier to getting your child the care they need.

Healthy Start Program in New City, NY

Periodontal care and gum health treatment at Rockland Dental Specialists

Rockland Dental Specialists Healthy Start Program

At Rockland Dental Specialists, we’re proud to offer the HealthyStart® System, a revolutionary departure from traditional orthodontics that serves as a natural way of straightening children’s teeth in a non-invasive and pain-free manner. HealthyStart®, which helps children attain a perfect smile without the use of braces, aligners, or surgery, also addresses a number of other issues including Sleep Disordered Breathing. Led by best-in-class dental surgeon and board-certified periodontist and implantologist Dr. Shalom Mintz, our team at Rockland Dental Specialists strives to support parents and caregivers who focus on fostering good oral habits and are committed to the healthy oral development of their children. The HealthyStart® System aligns with our goal of bringing our patients cutting-edge dental technology with best-in-class benefits.

Benefits of the Healthy Start Program

Addresses symptoms of Sleep Disordered Breathing
Helps develop the jaw and airway
Promotes nasal breathing
Straightens teeth without the need for braces
Corrects tongue thrust
Positions the tongue properly
Eliminates oral habits like finger & thumb sucking
Corrects dental conditions including overbite, overjet, open-bite, crossbite, crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and gummy smile

Early Treatment Is Critical

Getting your child started on the Healthy Start Program is beneficial in assisting with the following:

ADD/ADHD
Lower IQ
Chronic Allergies
Aggressive Behavior
Mouth Breathing
Crooked Teeth
Restless Sleep

Bedwetting
Nightmares
Dark Circle
Snoring
Headaches
Irritability
Arrested Growth

Underdeveloped jaw correction diagram at Rockland Dental Specialists

Make Your Child’s Health a Priority

If your child has any of the symptoms that are listed above, the Healthy Start Program may be exactly what they need to ensure that they do not develop further issues in the future. If you are interested in getting more information or to make an appointment, contact our office today at (845) 259-2500 or fill out our contact form.

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