Periodontal Disease in Greenwich, CT: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Periodontal Disease in Greenwich, CT: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
If you’re worried about bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, early care can stop small problems from becoming serious. This post explains periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT, why early diagnosis matters, and practical next steps. Read on to learn causes, signs, how specialists diagnose it, treatment options, and simple prevention tips you can use today.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease starts as inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and can progress to periodontitis when the infection reaches deeper tissues. In periodontitis, the bacteria and immune response destroy the fibers and bone that hold teeth in place. Left untreated, periodontal disease can cause bone loss, loose or lost teeth, and contributes to systemic inflammation that affects overall health.
Common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT
Watch for early and chronic signs. If you notice any of the following, schedule an evaluation for periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT:
- Bleeding or tender gums when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Deep pockets around teeth and sensitivity
If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, swelling, or rapidly moving teeth, seek immediate dental care.
Major causes and risk factors
Plaque, tartar, and bacterial infection
A sticky film of bacteria (plaque) builds up on teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar and pushes bacteria under the gumline, causing inflammation that destroys tissue and bone over time.
Health and lifestyle factors
Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, certain medications, chronic stress, poor nutrition, and family history raise the risk for periodontal disease. These factors can weaken healing and increase infection risk.
Oral-systemic connections
Research links gum disease to heart disease, diabetes control problems, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and sleep or breathing issues. Treating gum inflammation helps overall health, not just your mouth.
How periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT is diagnosed
Clinical exam and periodontal charting
A periodontist performs a full gum exam, measures pocket depths with a probe, records attachment loss, and checks for bleeding on probing and mobility. This charting maps disease severity and guides treatment.
Imaging and advanced testing
Digital X-rays and CBCT scans show bone levels, root anatomy, and airway structures. Many practices use ROSA™ screening to combine radiographic, oral, salivary, and airway data for a fuller oral-systemic risk picture.
Microbiome and salivary testing
OralDNA® and other salivary tests identify specific bacterial pathogens and inflammation markers. These tests help tailor antibiotics and targeted therapies for better outcomes.
Treatment options for periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT
Non-surgical care
Initial treatment often includes scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), better home care, localized antibiotics, and regular maintenance visits to control bacterial buildup and inflammation.
Minimally invasive laser therapy (LANAP) and biologic approaches
Laser-assisted therapy like LANAP can remove infected tissue while preserving healthy gum, speed recovery, and encourage reattachment of tissue with less discomfort and fewer antibiotics.
Surgical and regenerative treatments
When pockets are deep or bone is lost, procedures such as bone grafts, guided tissue regeneration, and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can rebuild support around teeth and improve long-term prognosis.
Tooth replacement and implant options
If a tooth must be removed, implant-supported replacement is often the best long-term option. Zirconia implants are available for patients with metal sensitivities or who prefer metal-free solutions.
Integrative supportive therapies
Adjunctive therapies like oxygenation/ozone treatment, biocompatibility testing, and coordination with medical providers can reduce infection and support whole-body healing when needed.
Prevention: everyday steps to lower your risk
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and use interdental brushes or floss every day
- Keep regular professional cleanings and periodontal maintenance visits
- Quit smoking and manage blood sugar if you have diabetes
- Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and address sleep or airway issues
- Ask your dentist about salivary testing if you have recurring problems
When to see a periodontist for periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT
See a periodontist if you have deep pockets, ongoing bleeding, loose teeth, or poor healing after treatment. A specialist manages advanced disease, offers regeneration and implant options, and coordinates care with your dentist and medical providers for systemic concerns.
About biologic periodontal care available in Greenwich, CT
Tetrahealth offers a biologic approach to periodontal care at its Greenwich, CT location. Drs. Alex and Michele Volchonok lead the practice and provide evidence-based, minimally invasive care using advanced diagnostics and therapies. Key offerings include LANAP laser treatment, CBCT imaging, OralDNA® testing, PRF regenerative therapy, and zirconia implant options—focused on safe, integrative treatment and whole-body wellness.
Next steps: finding care for periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT
To schedule an evaluation, call a local periodontist or request an appointment online. Prepare for your first visit by bringing your medical history, a current list of medications, and any recent X-rays or tests. Ask about diagnostic tools they use (CBCT, OralDNA®, ROSA™) and what a personalized treatment plan would include.
If you notice signs of gum disease, don’t wait. Prompt evaluation and treatment for periodontal disease in Greenwich, CT protect your teeth and support your overall health. Prioritize your gum health as part of whole-body wellness and seek care early to preserve your smile and vitality.
