Insights from NYC Periodontist Dr. Scott Kissel
Gum disease is one of the most common—and most underdiagnosed—oral health conditions in adults. According to national health data, nearly 50% of U.S. adults over age 30 have some form of periodontal disease, yet many are unaware they’re affected.
That’s because gum disease often develops quietly. In its early stages, it may cause little to no pain, allowing inflammation and bone loss to progress unnoticed. By the time symptoms become obvious, permanent damage may already be present.
At NYC Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Scott Kissel helps patients throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey identify periodontal disease early and prevent tooth loss through advanced diagnostics and personalized care. If it’s been a while since your last periodontal evaluation, call our New York City periodontist at 212-702-9088 to schedule a comprehensive exam.
What Is Periodontal Disease—and Why Is It So Common?
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by bacteria that attack the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It often begins as gingivitis and can progress into periodontitis if left untreated.
Common contributors include:
- Inconsistent dental cleanings
- Plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics
- Certain medical conditions, including diabetes
- Stress and immune system changes
Since these factors are so widespread, periodontal disease affects adults across all age groups—even those who brush regularly. Call our New York City dental team at 212-702-9088 to learn how early detection protects your smile.
Why Gum Disease Often Goes Undetected
Unlike cavities or broken teeth, gum disease doesn’t usually cause immediate pain. Many patients assume bleeding or tenderness is normal and delay care.
Early periodontal disease may involve:
- Mild gum inflammation or redness
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession
- Subtle tooth sensitivity
Without professional evaluation, inflammation can continue destroying bone that supports the teeth—often without noticeable symptoms.
The Consequences of Untreated Periodontal Disease
When gum disease progresses unchecked, it can lead to serious oral and systemic health consequences, including:
- Bone loss around teeth
- Tooth mobility or shifting
- Gum recession and exposed roots
- Chronic infection
- Tooth loss
- Increased need for dental implants or advanced reconstruction
Research has also linked periodontal disease to broader health concerns such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and systemic inflammation.
What a Periodontal Evaluation Can Detect Early
A comprehensive periodontal evaluation goes far beyond a routine cleaning. During an exam, our NYC periodontist, Dr. Kissel may:
- Measure gum pocket depths to assess disease severity
- Evaluate bone levels using advanced digital imaging
- Identify inflammation and infection below the gumline
- Examine tooth stability and bite forces
- Assess risk factors for disease progression
These findings allow treatment to begin before irreversible damage occurs.
How Periodontal Care Helps Preserve Natural Teeth
Early and ongoing periodontal care focuses on controlling infection, reducing inflammation, and protecting bone.
Treatment may include:
- Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing)
- Periodontal maintenance programs
- Laser-assisted therapy when appropriate
- Personalized home-care recommendations
- Monitoring disease stability over time
With proper care, many patients are able to maintain their natural teeth for years—even after a diagnosis of periodontal disease.
The Connection Between Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. As infection destroys the bone supporting teeth, even healthy-looking teeth can become loose.
Warning signs include:
- Teeth that feel unstable
- Gaps forming between teeth
- Gum recession
- Changes in bite alignment
- Chronic gum inflammation
Early periodontal intervention significantly reduces the risk of tooth loss.
Dental Implants After Periodontal Disease
When teeth cannot be saved, dental implants offer a predictable, long-term solution. Dr. Kissel specializes in implant placement for patients with a history of gum disease.
Dental implants:
- Replace missing teeth and roots
- Prevent further jawbone loss
- Restore chewing and speech
- Maintain facial structure
- Provide stable, natural-looking results
Proper periodontal management is essential for long-term implant success.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Periodontal Disease
Prevention and early detection are key. Dr. Kissel recommends:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing or using interdental cleaners daily
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Managing systemic conditions like diabetes
- Scheduling regular dental and periodontal evaluations
- Maintaining professional cleanings and periodontal maintenance visits
Even patients without symptoms benefit from routine periodontal screenings.
Specialized Periodontal Care in New York City
At NYC Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Scott Kissel provides advanced, patient-centered periodontal care using modern diagnostics and evidence-based treatment approaches.
We proudly serve patients from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey with compassionate, judgment-free care focused on long-term oral health.
Don’t Let Silent Gum Disease Steal Your Smile
With nearly half of U.S. adults affected by periodontal disease, early evaluation has never been more important. The sooner gum disease is identified, the more options you have to protect your teeth and bone.
Call our NYC periodontist at 212-702-9088 today to schedule your consultation.. One visit can make the difference between preserving your smile and losing it.
