Cattafesta Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
General Dentists located in Herndon, VA
Taking care of your teeth will not only give you a beautiful smile, but it can protect your mouth from infection and disease as well. Whether or not you have signs of periodontal disease, such as blood on your toothbrush, Dr. Michael Cattafesta and his periodontal team at Cattafesta Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Herndon, Virginia, can fix your oral health problems or keep them from happening with periodontal care. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone today.
Periodontal Care Q & A
What is periodontal care?
Periodontal care addresses the health of your teeth and gums beyond biannual dental visits and professional cleanings. Periodontal care is especially important if you’re older or have symptoms of periodontal disease, such as:
- Blood on your toothbrush or dental floss
- Red, swollen, or inflamed gums
- Discolored gums
- Recessed gums
- Sensitive teeth
Periodontal care is essential to stave off or reverse infections in your gums. Cattafesta Family & Cosmetic Dentistry has an on-site periodontist who can make your mouth healthy again.
What’s the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is an inflammation of your gums that, if not treated, can progress to a gum infection known as periodontitis. Gingivitis can often be reversed by simply adopting or re-adopting healthy dental habits, such as brushing and flossing twice a day. Periodontitis requires the care of a Cattafesta Family & Cosmetic Dentistry periodontal expert to resolve the infection.
Why are my gums recessed?
Recessed gums can be caused by brushing too hard or by periodontitis. When you have periodontitis, your gums pull away from your teeth, leaving deep pockets that can collect tartar and bacteria.
When you have periodontitis, your teeth may become more sensitive to hot and cold. You may also be able to see the roots of your teeth or notice gaps developing between your teeth.
What kinds of procedures can I get with periodontal care?
The team at Cattafesta Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers a number of procedures to restore health and reduce the risk of permanent tooth loss:
Deep cleaning
Deep cleaning removes tartar and bacteria from under the gumline, cleans out deep gum pockets, and reshapes tooth roots so that gums can adhere to the teeth.
Tissue grafting
Tissue grafting rebuilds recessed gums with tissue taken from other areas.
Dental implants
Dental implants involve surgically inserting permanent false teeth to help preserve the health of gums, bone, and surrounding teeth.
Can you make my gums and teeth look better, too?
A procedure called crown lengthening can improve the appearance of your teeth by cutting away excess gum tissue to show more of your teeth. Your periodontist may recommend crown lengthening when your gums have been damaged by infection. This procedure can also be done if gum tissue is covering too much of your teeth — known as a gummy smile. Crown lengthening can make your teeth look longer and more elegant.
Don’t wait for signs of a gum infection or recession before getting periodontal care. Book an appointment with Cattafesta Family & Cosmetic Dentistry online or over the phone to find out more.