Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that gets under the gums and into the bone around your teeth, causing inflammation. Periodontal inflammation leads to tooth loss and may contribute to other medical conditions.
The periodontal infection must be removed and the area given a chance to heal. There are generally two accepted treatments for this condition depending upon the severity of your infection.
Upper Level Infection Removal
The upper level of infection in the pockets around your teeth can be removed using specialized instruments. This procedure is called, “Scaling and Root Planing", “Phase One Treatment" or “Initial Therapy". It is done under local anesthesia and is quite different from the routine dental cleaning or “deep cleaning" that is traditionally done in the general dentist's office.
Lower Level Infection Removal
If your infection has spread into the bone that supports your teeth, and is below the level that can be reached in “Upper Level Infection Removal", then a surgical procedure must be performed to retract the gums and remove the lower level infection.
Patient Testimonials
I would like to thank Dr. Greenberg and his staff for making my first experience of needing periodontal care very rewarding. Everything about their office, staff, care and follow-up are very professional. From my first emergency visit to my day of surgery, I was made to feel that my care and well-being was their number one priority. The procedures needed to repair my tooth were explained in a way that I was able to understand, step by step I was prepared for all that would be happening. I now understand why my dentist referred me to Dr. Greenberg and I would highly recommend them to anyone needing periodontal care.
-JP
When told that I would need periodontal work, I did not know what to expect but was not thrilled with any procedure requiring work on my teeth. Happily, I did not experience any discomfort or apprehension during the entire procedure. Dr. Greenberg and his staff were pleasant and personable at all times. I felt like they were seeing me as an individual, not just a 'case'. As a newcomer to the area, I was learning my way around the area and often looking for a specific kind of shop. They took an interest in my activities and guided me to local resources that I needed, often with excellent results.
During the periodontal work and the tooth extraction that was done, each step of the way was clearly explained and questions were solicited. Because the explanations were so clear, I had no questions. Also, my visits were always honored at the appointed times, a real source of pleasure to me since I feel my time is as valuable as the doctor's; not a situation you find in most offices.
I will return for the follow-up visits happily. I have faith that Dr. Greenberg did and will handle my case with care and I have no concerns about the quality of the workmanship that was done. I would not hesitate to recommend his practice to anyone.
-SN
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Greenberg and his staff for their honest evaluation and recommendation of my condition. If it weren't for Dr. Greenberg's honesty, I would have ignored a potentially serious infection that could have resulted in chronic infection and bone loss in my mouth. Dr. Greenberg performed a short, virtually painless, surgical procedure to correct my condition that has improved the quality of my life. Furthermore, Dr. Greenberg continued his care by calling me after hours on the day of the surgery to check on my recovery. I would recommend Dr. Greenberg and his staff to anyone requiring oral surgery.
-DW
I was very pleased with my experience in your office. At all times I felt like I was in good and capable hands. Everything was dealt with in a warm, caring and professional manner. My questions were answered. There was reassuring follow-up. I would recommend your office without reservation to anyone in need of periodontal care.
-RW
I was referred to Dr. Greenberg in Dec 2006 for an exam and to determine the extent of the periodontal work that needed to be done. From the very start, he made me feel very comfortable and provided the exact details as to the proposed procedure. He had decided on a multi-step approach by doing one half of the surgery over two visits.
Prior to the surgical appointment, I requested that the procedure be done in one visit. Although this would be an involved process he agreed to proceed, taking into account all health, risk and safety factors.
Dr. Greenberg used all of his extensive knowledge and skills in performing my surgery which was a very difficult one. I was really surprised that my recovery was within a few weeks and with a normal amount of swelling and minimal pain. I am pleased with the results that not only look good, but that will also protect my teeth and gums in the future. During this period, the office staff (Kate) was very informative and always pleasant.
I would strongly recommend Dr. Greenberg’s services to anyone……
-DB
Dr. Greenberg and staff were, at all times, professional and courteous, Any concerns and questions I had about my treatment were fully addressed. It’s comfort, on my part was minimal with pain medication and the knowledge that relief was always just a "click" away. An overall positive experience towards my dental health. Thanks again.
-DW
Much to my surprise and pleasure, my extreme surgery was free of pain or any bleeding. My teeth look and feel so much better. I am indeed grateful.
-RF
Outstanding! I had many concerns when I first found out that I required periodontal surgery. Dr. Greenberg answered all of my questions, and reassured me that the discomfort would be tolerable. He was right, as my discomfort was less than expected. The follow-up care was great as well. Many thanks to the entire office!
-AF
Dr. Greenberg, I can truly say that my experience in your office was enjoyable, the pain was minimal, you and your staff were very pleasant and helpful. Everything was explained to my satisfaction. Your office is very professional and Kate always explained what was going on with the insurance billing. I can truly say that I’m glad I was referred to your office for treatment. Thank you so much for your experience in the field of periodontal surgery and for taking care of my teeth and gums.
-SY