Frequently Asked Questionsabout Periodontics

Finding answers to health questions on your own can be confusing; that’s why we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about proper gum care! Our qualified team is more than happy to answer any questions you may have, but see if these can help in the meantime.

Periodontal diseases are infections of the structures around the teeth. These diseases include the gums, the periodontal ligament, the cementum that covers the root, and the alveolar bone. In the earliest stage of periodontal disease or gingivitis, there can be bleeding that affects the gums. 

Over time, areas of the bone can be impacted, which is then called periodontitis. At that stage, the gums can recede from the teeth and form pockets of bacteria and debris. The end result can be the loss of teeth as the bone deteriorates.

Some telltale signs of periodontal diseases are:

• Bleeding Gums: One of the earliest and most obvious signs of infection is bleeding gums during or after brushing or flossing.
• Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: If your gums are sensitive, red, or swollen, they are possibly becoming infected.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Another of the most common signs of infection is ongoing bad breath or ongoing bad taste in their mouths.
• Loose or Shifting Teeth: Later signs of periodontal disease involve movement or migration of teeth. Loose teeth or teeth that appear longer due to receding gums are a clear warning that professional help is required.

If periodontal treatment has been recommended, it is important to get started right away. Without intervention, the infection will continue to affect the gums and eventually the bone which anchors your teeth. A few months of delay can require additional and more costly treatment and possibly unnecessary tooth loss.

Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental examinations and cleanings are the first defense against gum disease. These actions lessen the amount of plaque and can prevent the onset of calculus. Other risk factors such as smoking should also be modified or eliminated.

Chances are that you have heard at least one of these terms, most likely the first one. Plaque is a sticky, clear film that constantly forms on your teeth. It is the bacteria that live in plaque and their acidic secretions that cause tooth decay and problems in the gums. Gum inflammations eventually lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. When plaque isn’t removed regularly by brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings it hardens to create calculus (commonly known as tartar). Calculus can only be removed by a dental professional during an oral cleaning.

Dental implants are artificial teeth and titanium tooth roots that are submerged into the jawbone via oral surgery. They are permanent additions that can replace one or more teeth, and do not affect neighboring teeth. 

Your periodontist may use several implants to help with any combination of fixed bridges and removable or fixed dentures. Dental implants appear more natural than dentures and patients find them to be more comfortable. Implants are the closest thing to real teeth, and they allow you to eat, speak, and go about your life with confidence.

Your surgeon will perform the operation with local anesthesia or IV sedation so that your gums and jaw are completely numb. Patients say that the aching they experience after surgery is similar to the recovery from a root canal or pulled tooth. Most dental implant patients are able return to work and everyday activities by the following day.

Dental implants are easy to maintain by brushing and flossing, just like your natural teeth. Additional cleaning aids may be recommended to help keep your teeth healthy at home.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! We’re dedicated to providing expert periodontal care for the people in and around our communities.

Our experienced periodontists use state-of-the-art technologies throughout all of our services, because your comfort is most important to us. Find out why Periodontal Health Center is one of the top periodontists in Tampa and New Port Richey when you schedule an appointment with us.

Persistent bad breath is often caused by bacteria buildup beneath the gumline, especially when gum disease is present. 

When these bacteria produce sulfur compounds, they can create an unpleasant odor that brushing alone may not fix. If bad breath doesn’t improve with good oral hygiene, it’s best to schedule an evaluation to identify and treat the underlying cause.

You should see a periodontist if you notice any gum issues, like bleeding gums, gum recession, chronic bad breath, sensitivity, loose teeth, or changes in your gum appearance. 

Even mild symptoms can indicate early gum disease, and early intervention helps prevent long-term damage to the gums and bone.

Here’s what you can expect on your first visit to our periodontist office in New Port Richey or Tampa:

1. A warm welcome & comprehensive evaluation

You’ll be greeted by our friendly team and evaluated by our all-women, board-certified periodontists near you. Your comfort is a top priority from the moment you arrive.

2. Advanced 3D imaging for precise diagnosis

We use a state-of-the-art Cone Beam CT scan to capture detailed 3D images of your teeth and jaw in just seconds. This allows us to assess your oral health, identify concerns, and plan the least invasive, most effective approach possible.

3. A clear, personalized treatment plan

After reviewing your results, we’ll walk you through our findings, explain your options, and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs, so you feel informed, confident, and supported every step of the way.

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning treatment that removes plaque and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach and heal. 

It’s often used to treat early to moderate gum disease and is performed comfortably with modern techniques and local anesthesia when needed.

In most cases, a dentist referral is not required to see a periodontist. Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or proactive care for your gum health, you can book an appointment online with us directly, using our easy booking platform.

Many insurance plans provide some level of insurance coverage for periodontal care, although benefits vary. As a courtesy, our team files insurance claims on your behalf and works closely with your provider to help maximize your benefits and make it an easy, stress-free experience for you.

Not with Periodontal Health Center. We want you to have access to the quality care you deserve! 

We offer flexible payment options, including Cherry Financing, which allows you to spread your cost over time with qualifying 0% APR options. We’ll walk you through your financial options clearly so you can receive the care you need without added stress.

The cost of gum disease treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition, the type of treatment needed, and your individual oral health. 

After your comprehensive evaluation, we’ll clearly explain your treatment options and associated costs, so you know exactly what to expect.

We offer flexible financing (through Cherry Financing) so you can manage your treatment cost over time. Our team will file insurance claims on your behalf to help maximize your benefits whenever possible.