Gum disease is a progressive disease that breaks down the gum tissue and bone surrounding your teeth. It is caused by bacteria in plaque and dental calculus. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and contribute to other systemic health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and dementia.
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Gum Disease Treatment NYC
Taking care of your gums is an essential part of your oral hygiene. Gum care starts at home, with a daily hygiene routine that includes flossing to clean below the gum line. Your dentist and hygienist will monitor the health of your gums and can recommend the best gum disease treatment options if they detect signs of inflammation or periodontal (gum) disease.
According to research, 7 in 10 adults will experience gum disease in their lifetime. The good news is gum disease is preventable and can be reversed if it’s caught early enough.
If it’s been more than 6 months since your last professional cleaning, request an appointment today!
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Meet Your Team of Dental Experts
Our dentists have 25% more certified education credits than required. We always focus on gentle, compassionate care.
“I received the best treatment at Lux Smiles! I am an anxious dental patient and the entire staff was welcoming, respectful and caring. They weren't dismissive of my concerns, took the time to listen and were very methodical in their assessment. Can't wait to come back!”
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After completing his bachelor’s degree at the University of Rhode Island, Dr. Leonetti attended the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine in New Jersey and went on to complete his General Practice Residency at Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine in Manhattan, New York. He joined us at the Tribeca location in 2016 and has expanded with us to the SoHo Dental Group.
Continuing Education
Dr. Leonetti performs various types of general dentistry for patients of all ages including restorative and preventative care, root canal therapy, Invisalign orthodontics, and gum surgery.
In his studies at the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, he focused on cosmetic procedures and implant dentistry. To provide treatment for an underserved population, he traveled to Managua, Nicaragua, in 2017 to provide dental implants to patients who had often lost many teeth due to a lack of proper dental care.
Dr. Leonetti continues to advance his skills every year so he can provide his patients with impeccable care, an activity he is passionate about.
Outside of the Office
When he’s not caring for patients, he enjoys golfing, skiing, and cooking.
Dr. Nicole Khalife comes to us from Long Island, New York. She completed her bachelor’s degree at Villanova University and then obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. She gained experience in a variety of dental specialties at the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine in Manhattan, focusing on cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, root canal therapy, and invisible braces.
Outside of the Office
When she is not providing caring dentistry in New York and educating her patients on how to maintain their health, Dr. Khalife enjoys cycling, yoga, cooking, and traveling.
With a decade of experience and counting, Dr. Nicholas Ruhrkraut brings warmth and joy to the dental field that our patients can truly appreciate. Not only does he enjoy the opportunity to connect with others daily while educating them on the importance of their oral health, but he also loves helping people gain confidence through a healthier and more beautiful smile. Keep reading to learn more about his background and education.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?
Throughout college, Dr. Ruhrkraut had been interested in the field of medicine until he decided to switch gears and focus more on dentistry. This was due to his participation in a mission trip to Honduras in 2011, where he assisted a dentist there and resumed shadowing him back in the United States. After learning much more about the wonderful opportunities that dentistry offered while also helping to improve a patient’s overall quality of life, he set himself to pursue a life as a dentist!
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
Dr. Ruhrkraut attended The Ohio State University for his bachelor’s degree before studying at their College of Dentistry to earn his dental doctorate. Throughout his years as a general dentist, he’s enjoyed the flexibility it’s given him to provide a holistic plan and various treatments to his patients. He’s worked in multiple offices in New York City and Los Angeles, and he’s gained extensive knowledge and skills in multiple types of services, including root canals, crowns and bridges, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and Invisalign. He also regularly seeks continuing education to remain on top of the latest advancements in dentistry, and he’s also an active member of the American Dental Association and New York Dental Association.
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
Aside from treating pearly whites, Dr. Ruhrkraut loves to return to his hometown of Cleveland, OH to visit his parents and loved ones several times a year whenever he gets the chance. Away from the office, he enjoys cooking, reading, watching movies, playing volleyball, and traveling. One fun fact about him: he’s an Eagle Scout and received the Triple Crown Award after canoeing, hiking, camping, and sailing in three national high adventure programs.
Dr. Jessica Li is a Board-Certified Periodontist specializing in innovative surgical techniques and advanced periodontal therapies. Dr. Li received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from New York University and completed her specialty training at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Her clinical skills extend to a wide range of periodontal procedures, including laser treatments, ridge augmentation, osseous surgery, and implant therapy.
Dr. Li is recognized for her expertise in minimally invasive techniques, offering patients pain-free treatments with cutting-edge technologies such as LANAP® (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) and the Pinhole® Surgical Technique for gum recession.
She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Periodontology and the Academy of Osseointegration. She regularly attends industry meetings and continuing education programs to stay at the forefront of the latest advancements in periodontics. Outside of her practice, Dr. Li enjoys tennis, surfing, and running.
PRICING & INSURANCE AT LUX SMILES
Flexible payment options that will make you smile.
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We always focus on clearly communicating the cost of treatments and your co-pay amounts when using insurance.
Direct Insurance Billing
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No Insurance, No Problem
Many of our patients pay out of pocket with cash, credit card, debit etc. We also offer third party financing and have an in-house membership plan.
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Our mission is to deliver exceptional, comprehensive dental care with a highly experienced team using the latest technology.
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Advanced technology in a modern office to ensure comfortable care and better diagnostics....
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Additional Information
Early Signs of Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
Signs of early gum disease, or gingivitis, include red, swollen gums. Your gums may also be tender or bleeding. It’s important to note that gum disease is often a silent disease – many people don’t notice any symptoms until it’s in its more advanced stages.
Symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or sensitive teeth
You can treat gingivitis at home by eating a healthy diet, brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. This will help reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth and give your gums a chance to recover.
Although you can brush away plaque, calculus (hardened plaque) can only be removed by your dental hygienist. Be sure to keep up with regular professional dental cleanings to keep hard-to-reach areas free of bacteria. Most people should get their teeth professionally cleaned at least every six months. Your hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings depending on the condition of your teeth and gums.
If it’s been more than 6 months since your last professional cleaning, request an appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Common symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose or sensitive teeth.
How is gum disease diagnosed?
Gum disease is diagnosed through a dental examination, which includes checking your gums for signs of inflammation, measuring the depth of pockets around your teeth, and taking dental X-rays to assess bone loss.
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional treatment. However, periodontitis, the advanced stage, can only be managed to prevent further damage.
What treatments are available for gum disease?
Treatments for gum disease include professional dental cleanings, scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, and surgical procedures such as flap surgery, bone grafts, and tissue grafts.