FAQs

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gums and bone surrounding and supporting your teeth. This disease is caused by bacteria (germs) that accumulate in a film around your teeth (plaque or biofilm). Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the United States.

Is there more than one type of periodontal disease?

Yes. Periodontal disease in its earliest form is called gingivitis. Areas of the gums become red, swollen, receded and may bleed. More advanced periodontal disease, called periodontitis, is when bone loss occurs around the tooth. There are also periodontal diseases that affect young adults, people taking certain medications, and diseases where bone loss and tooth loss can occur rapidly.

How do I know if I have periodontal (gum) disease? Is it painful?

Most forms of periodontal disease occur with no pain. If you suspect you have gum disease, take the self test or contact our New York Periodontist Dr. Stuart Froum in his Manhattan office at 212.586.4209 for a free consultation.

Why should I replace a missing tooth?

When a tooth is lost, the bite may change and the teeth shift positions. Also, when a tooth is lost, the bone begins to shrink (atrophy) and the face gets that “sunken in” look.

How can I replace a missing tooth (or teeth)?

Teeth can be replaced by removable teeth (partial or full dentures) or fixed bridges (false teeth attached to adjacent teeth) or implants (posts that support teeth). If you have questions as to which is best for you, please contact our New York Periodontist Dr. Stuart Froum in his Manhattan office at 212.586.4209 for a free consultation and more information regarding missing teeth.

How often should I brush? Should I use an electric toothbrush? How often should I floss?

The classic rule is to brush as often as you eat each day (after each meal) and floss once a day. This may not be right for you and you may have to use special devices, for example, an electric tooth brush, special tooth paste, a small brush to get between the teeth, a rubber tip, a water irrigating device, or special mouth rinses. Dr. Froum will customize a home care regimen for you that is practical, effective and that fits into your lifestyle.

Is gum shrinkage normal?

No. Gum shrinkage can be a sign of disease, aging or over brushing. Dr. Froum will diagnose the cause of your problem and suggest a treatment (if necessary) that will effectively stop the recession and may reverse it.

I lost teeth because of gum disease so I was told I have bad bone and am not a candidate for implants. Is this true?

Regardless of the reason for your tooth loss, implants can replace your missing teeth if you have adequate bone volume. This is determined by special X-rays that we will order for you. Dr. Froum also specializes in growing new gums and bone (regenerative procedures), which will allow you to have implants even if your bone is decreased. This is one of Dr. Froum’s specialties.

My wife says I grind my teeth when I sleep. What can I do about it?

There are several solutions. One is the fabrication of a night guard that will partially cover your teeth at night and prevent the damage of grinding. The other involves self-hypnosis and behavioral techniques and exercise, taught by Dr. Froum, to safely break the habit.

Can I safely whiten my teeth?

Most teeth that have been stained or darkened by age, food, tobacco, injury or other causes can be whitened by professional tooth cleaning and polishing. Some stained teeth require a procedure that brightens them. Tooth bleaching is a tooth whitening procedure and it takes the form of an in-office (chair-side treatment) or take-home whitening products.

In-office bleaching, which is the best controlled and most effective method of tooth whitening, takes place in one of Dr. Froum’s treatment rooms and is administered by a dentist. The teeth are first cleaned and polished and the whitening product is applied tooth by tooth. Then a curing light combines peroxide with the tooth surface to make the teeth whiter. During the technique, the gums are covered to protect them from any irritation.

» Click here for more information on tooth whitening.

Is implant treatment very expensive?

There are a variety of implant options for a patient with missing teeth. In many cases, the options have costs similar to other forms of tooth replacement-removable type dentures or fixed crowns. Some insurance plans provide coverage for implant-tooth replacement.

What are veneers?

Veneers or laminates are a method of improving tooth color and shape by attaching thin porcelain facings to the tooth.