Gum Recession Treatment
in Long Island

Receding gums may be caused by Periodontal disease, brushing too hard, injury, or using the wrong kind of tooth brush. The result is that tooth roots are exposed, which can cause a number of concerns. These may include the following:

1. Cosmetics. As the gum line recedes beyond the end of the enamel the appearance of the smile can deteriorate. The expression “long in the tooth” is associated with aging.
2. Tooth Sensitivity. The roots of teeth are porous. When the roots become exposed they can be very sensitive to touch or cold.
3. Loss of a firm collar of gum tissue around the tooth. The gum tissue is a barrier whose job is to protect the tooth from the trauma of eating and brushing and to help seal out bacteria from the underlying bone. Recession can compromise this gum tissue barrier.
4. Cavities on the roots. The natural crown of a tooth is covered with enamel which is very resistant to decay. The root does not have this protective coating. Decay can occur on the root of a tooth once the root becomes exposed.

There are a variety of ways to treat gum recession and cover exposed roots. Dr. Scharf can help you restore a more youthful appearance to the teeth, reduce sensitivity and protect the roots of your teeth. Here are some of the treatment options Dr. Scharf offers.

Gum Grafting: This is a tried and true method of reversing gum recession. Dr. Scharf takes a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth and places it in an area where gums have receded. This process restores a beautiful, natural gum line and protects your tooth roots.

Pinhole Surgical Technique: This innovative procedure provides similar results to gum grafting but without the need for cutting or stitching. Through a small hole, the gum tissue is gently repositioned to cover exposed roots. Dr. Scharf is proud to be one of the first periodontists in New York to offer this treatment.

Dr. Scharf is an expert in various methods and will discuss the pros and cons of each with you during your appointment.