Welcome to Kelner Periodontics

Clark NJ Periodontist and Dental Implant Specialist

From restoring healthy gums to placing dental implants, Dr. Kelner delivers the highest standard of specialized periodontal work in a sterile yet caring environment. 

Your comfort is important to us, which is why we offer refreshments, hot towels, and satellite music.

Do I have Gum Disease, Gingivitis, or Periodontitis?

Swollen, bleeding, tender, or receding gums are common signs of gum disease, as are persistent bad breath and loose, sensitive, or painful teeth. Gum disease is a generic term for gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (peridontium inflammation). Gingivitis is reversible because bone loss has not yet occurred. Periodontitis (or periodontal disease) requires immediate attention because inflamed peridontium (the soft tissue and bone that anchors teeth) indicates active ongoing damage to the tooth or bone structure beneath the gum line.

Unfortunately, many people wait until they experience pain, gum recession, putrid odor, or other severe symptoms before seeking treatment from the closest periodontist. At that point, surgical intervention beyond preventative care is likely necessary.

Do I need a referral?

No, referrals are not needed to see a periodontist. While some general dentists refer to the closest periodontal clinic, many of our patients come to us without referrals.

Over 40% of adults over 30 years old in the US have periodontal disease and would benefit from seeing a periodontist for preventative care; and, almost 10% of adults suffer from advanced periodontitis, where infection and bone loss may flood harmful bacteria into the bloodstream and throughout your body. Advanced periodontal disease requires surgical intervention to address ongoing damage to tooth and bone structure. Reaching this stage is avoidable, but if you ignore your teeth and gums long enough, they’ll go away.

Why see a periodontist?

A periodontist specializes in the treatment of gum disease, the placement of dental implants, and other surgical procedures that a general dentist rarely performs. To practice as a periodontist, a dentist must complete a 3-year graduate program after they have completed their 4-year dentistry degree. Despite additional qualifications, experience, and specialized equipment, periodontists typically charge fees comparable to general dentists.

A periodontist’s office provides regular deep cleanings to remove tartar and other adverse formations below the gum line. This prevents gum recession, gum disease, bad breath, cavity formation, and bone loss. If you see a general dentist to address your aesthetic concerns you may find yourself paying to redo the work if the underlying problems are not resolved first.