Gum Disease & Periodontal Treatment in Maspeth, NY


Gum disease is one of the most common—and most misunderstood—oral health conditions. It often progresses quietly, without pain, until significant damage has already occurred. At Fitzsimons & Hagan Dentistry, we take gum health very seriously because healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile and a healthy body.

We offer comprehensive periodontal care designed to stop disease progression, restore gum health, and support your long-term wellness. From early intervention to advanced periodontal therapy—including Perio Protect®—our approach is personalized, evidence-based, and focused on comfort.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and supporting structures around the teeth. It begins when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—accumulates along the gumline and below the surface of the gums.

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to:

  • Gum recession
  • Bone loss
  • Loose teeth
  • Tooth loss
  • Chronic inflammation

Because gum disease often progresses silently, regular dental visits are critical for early detection.

The Stages of Gum Disease

Gingivitis (Early Stage)

Gingivitis is the earliest and most reversible stage of gum disease. Symptoms may include:

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Bleeding with brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath

At this stage, professional cleanings and improved home care can often fully reverse the condition.

Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)

When gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This stage involves damage to the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth.

Symptoms may include:

  • Gum recession
  • Deep periodontal pockets
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Loose or shifting teeth

Periodontitis requires more advanced periodontal treatment to control infection and prevent further damage.

Why Gum Disease Is a Serious Health Concern

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it’s closely linked to overall health. Research has shown associations between periodontal disease and:

  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Stroke
  • Respiratory disease
  • Pregnancy complications

Chronic inflammation in the gums can contribute to systemic inflammation throughout the body. Treating gum disease is an important step in protecting your overall health.

How We Diagnose Gum Disease

Gum disease diagnosis involves more than a quick look.

Our comprehensive evaluation includes:

  • Measuring periodontal pocket depths
  • Assessing gum inflammation and recession
  • Digital X-rays to evaluate bone levels
  • Review of risk factors such as genetics, smoking, and medical conditions

This thorough assessment allows us to determine the stage of disease and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Periodontal Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to the severity of gum disease and your individual needs.

Professional Dental Cleanings

For patients with healthy gums or mild gingivitis, routine professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone cannot eliminate.

Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment often recommended for early to moderate periodontitis.

This procedure:

  • Removes plaque and bacteria below the gumline
  • Smooths tooth roots to help gums reattach
  • Reduces inflammation and pocket depth

Deep cleanings are typically performed with local anesthesia to ensure comfort.

Periodontal Maintenance

After periodontal treatment, patients enter a periodontal maintenance program. These visits occur more frequently—often every 3–4 months—to keep bacteria under control and prevent disease recurrence.

Perio Protect®: A Modern Approach to Gum Disease

One of the most advanced tools we offer for managing gum disease is Perio Protect®, a non-invasive system designed to deliver medication directly into periodontal pockets.

What Is Perio Protect?

Perio Protect uses custom-made trays—similar to whitening trays—that allow a hydrogen peroxide–based gel to reach deep below the gumline. This helps:

  • Kill harmful bacteria
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Disrupt bacterial biofilm
  • Support healing of gum tissues

How Perio Protect Works

Patients wear their Perio Protect trays at home for short periods of time. The medication penetrates areas that brushing, flossing, and rinsing cannot reach.

This targeted approach enhances the effectiveness of professional periodontal treatment.

Benefits of Perio Protect

  • Non-surgical and comfortable
  • Used at home
  • Targets bacteria deep below the gums
  • Helps reduce pocket depths
  • Supports long-term gum health

Perio Protect is especially helpful for patients with moderate to advanced periodontal disease or those looking to avoid surgery.

A Personalized Approach to Gum Health

No two patients experience gum disease the same way. Genetics, medical conditions, and lifestyle all play a role.

We create individualized periodontal treatment plans based on:

  • Severity of disease
  • Response to previous treatment
  • Overall health
  • Patient comfort and preferences

Education and partnership are central to long-term success.

Home Care Is Essential

Professional treatment works best when paired with excellent home care.

We provide guidance on:

  • Proper brushing techniques
  • Flossing and interdental cleaning
  • Antimicrobial rinses
  • Use of Perio Protect trays when indicated

Consistency at home is critical for controlling gum disease.

Can Gum Disease Be Cured?

Gingivitis can often be fully reversed. Periodontitis is a chronic condition, but it can be effectively managed with ongoing care.

Early intervention leads to the best outcomes.

Gum Disease Treatment for the Whole Family

While gum disease is more common in adults, early signs can appear in teens as well. Regular exams allow us to monitor gum health at every age.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gum Disease & Periodontal Treatment

Is gum disease painful?

Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, which is why it can go unnoticed without regular dental visits.

How do I know if I have gum disease?

Bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession are common signs—but diagnosis requires a professional exam.

Is deep cleaning painful?

Scaling and root planing is typically performed with local anesthesia and is very well tolerated.

How often will I need cleanings?

Patients with periodontal disease often benefit from cleanings every 3–4 months.

Can Perio Protect replace deep cleanings?

Perio Protect is an excellent adjunct but does not replace professional periodontal treatment.

What happens if gum disease is left untreated?

Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and increased health risks.

Why Choose Fitzsimons & Hagan Dentistry for Periodontal Care?

Patients trust us because we offer:

  • Thorough periodontal evaluation
  • Advanced non-surgical treatment options
  • Perio Protect therapy
  • Compassionate, judgment-free care
  • A focus on long-term health

Schedule a Gum Health Evaluation

If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or have been told you have gum disease, we’re here to help.

📞 Call Fitzsimons & Hagan Dentistry at 718-429-6931 to schedule your periodontal evaluation in Maspeth, NY.

Healthy gums. Healthy smile. Healthier you.