Our FAQs

Your general dentist may refer you if you have signs of gum disease, gum recession, bone loss, or if you need specialized procedures such as gum grafting, dental implants, or advanced periodontal therapy.

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and supporting bone around the teeth. It is caused by bacteria in dental plaque and can range from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. Periodontal disease can progress to more serious issues if not treated, including tooth loss.

Common signs include:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing

Red, swollen, or tender gums

Persistent bad breath

Gum recession or teeth appearing longer

Loose or shifting teeth

Changes in your bite

Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, which is why regular dental and periodontal evaluations are important.

Yes. While periodontal disease is a chronic condition, it can be effectively managed with professional care and good home oral hygiene. Early diagnosis leads to simpler, more predictable treatment.

Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. This may involve measuring the gum tissue around your teeth, reviewing X-rays, assessing bone levels, and discussing your medical and dental history. We will then recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease. It removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums heal and reattach.

Your comfort is very important to us. Most periodontal procedures are performed with local anesthesia, and sedation options are also available . Patients are often pleasantly surprised by how manageable treatment feels.

Gum grafting is a procedure used to treat gum recession by adding tissue to areas where the gums have pulled away from the teeth. This helps protect the tooth roots, improve comfort, and enhance the appearance of your smile.

Gum recession can be caused by periodontal disease, genetics, orthodontic treatment and aggressive brushing. Identifying the cause helps determine the most appropriate treatment.

Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post placed in the jawbone that supports a crown, bridge, or denture. Periodontists are specially trained in implant placement.

Most healthy adults are candidates for dental implants. Adequate bone support and healthy gums are important, and in some cases, bone grafting may be recommended to improve implant success.

Treatment time varies depending on the condition being treated. Some procedures are completed in a single visit, while others involve multiple appointments and healing periods. We will review expected timelines with you in advance.

Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for periodontal care, though benefits vary. Although we are out of network with insurance plans, our team is happy to help review your benefits and provide estimates prior to treatment.

Maintaining periodontal health involves:

Daily brushing and flossing

Using recommended oral hygiene tools

Keeping regular dental and periodontal maintenance visits

Avoiding tobacco products

Patients with a history of gum disease often benefit from periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months. This schedule helps prevent disease recurrence and protect long-term oral health.

Research has shown associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation. Treating gum disease is an important part of maintaining overall health.