Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment costs will depend on several factors, including the severity of the patient’s case, what type of procedures are performed, what diagnostic tests are required, whether or not the patient has insurance, and if they do, what kind of insurance plan they have. Additional factors include the number of visits required to correct the issue, the type of materials used (where applicable), and what type of dental sedation (if any) is used.

Dental plans cover most periodontal treatments (partially or in whole). However, discussing anticipated costs and coverage with your provider and/or periodontist before performing procedures is essential, so you know what to expect.

Yes, there may be a way to enhance your smile. It’s a good idea to discuss your options with a periodontist first. They can explain the best way to create the smile you want and answer any questions you may have. For example, one procedure that can remove excess gum tissue is called crown lengthening. After the excess gum tissue is removed, the gum line is reshaped to create the right proportion between the gum tissue and the tooth surface. Your general dentist and periodontist may also work together to coordinate additional treatments such as veneers or crowns. However, your periodontist and general dentist will recommend the best procedure to improve your smile.

It is possible but rare. It is also essential that children and adolescents practice good oral health care and keep their teeth and gums healthy to reduce their risk of developing periodontal disease in the future. Ensure your children brush their teeth twice daily and practice proper flossing techniques. It is also vital to ensure they have regular (biannual) dental checkups so their teeth can be professionally cleaned and their oral health can be monitored. By establishing these good habits early on, your child will likely avoid issues like periodontal disease and enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

As a parent, you should also be aware of the warning signs of periodontal disease, which include red, swollen, bleeding gums or bad breath that won’t go away. Tell your dental professional immediately if your child develops any of these symptoms. It’s also a good idea to ensure your dental professional knows your complete family history, as genetics can play a role in the early development of periodontal disease.

Several procedures can be performed by a dentist and a periodontist. Still, periodontists are considered the best option for gum disease and other related issues. Periodontists can perform various procedures, ranging from preventative to cosmetic to surgical. For more severe cases of gum disease that have resulted in the loss of teeth, periodontists may perform dental implants, full mouth reconstruction, and/or bone grafts. In contrast, in less severe cases, a periodontist may perform milder procedures, such as periodontal maintenance or scale and root planing, to halt or reverse the effects of gum disease. Frequently, general dentists and periodontists work in partnership to develop a comprehensive care plan that is individualized to a patient’s unique oral health care needs.

In addition to completing an undergraduate degree and dental school, a licensed periodontist must also complete an additional education program, typically lasting between 30-36 months. This further education is focused on understanding the cause and treatment of gum disease and other issues. Although it is not a requirement, many periodontists also take board-certified examinations to demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and mastery of their field.

The first appointment is with Dr. Rachna Hegde. At this initial visit, we will obtain a complete health history, evaluate records from your referring dentist, and perform a thorough periodontal exam to obtain current clinical findings in our office. Additional x-rays may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Treatment recommendations will be discussed with you, taking into consideration how it will affect the rest of your dentition and overall

The bacteria in the mouth recolonizes in approximately 90 days starting the destruction process. In an effort to maintain healthy pockets and interrupt the formation of bacteria, a three month periodontal cleaning is the usual recommendation. This also gives us the opportunity to monitor your periodontal health.

Local anesthetic, commonly referred to as Novocaine, is the most commonly used numbing agent. If desired, nitrous oxide or oral sedation can be provided. If you wish to have oral sedation, a responsible adult must accompany you to your appointment, remain in the office during your procedure, and drive you home after surgery.

Bacterial plaque and hardened deposit accumulations below the gum line cause destruction to the tissue and bone which leads to periodontal disease and pocketing. These pockets cannot be cleansed with normal home care or even routine professional methods. The goal of this initial therapy is to coach you with your home care, reduce inflammation, and remove deposits. Scaling and root planing requires multiple, 1-2 hour appointments with the hygienist to thoroughly clean below the gum line. Most times, local anesthetic is used for this procedure.

If left untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth loss. Soft tissue grafts can fix this condition and also prevent further recession or bone loss. In the procedure, gum tissue is taken from your palate or another donor source. This tissue is then placed over the exposed roots, which helps to even out the gum line and reduce sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.

A procedure called esthetic crown lengthening can correct “gummy” smiles. “Gummy” smiles make teeth appear too short. With crown lengthening, the gums and supporting tissues are reshaped to expose more of the tooth.

Maintenance therapy is used to help prevent further infection from occurring in patients who have already received periodontal treatment. Your periodontist will tailor a program to fit your needs, which will include periodontal checkups, plaque and tartar removal and sometimes polishing your teeth or checking your bite. The frequency of visits varies from case to case, from every few weeks to four times per year.

Whether you need surgery or not will depend on how advanced your periodontal disease is. There are non-surgical treatments, such as root scaling and planing available, for those with mild gum disease. If you are in the advanced stages of gum disease, you may benefit from having surgery. With the latest technology and advanced techniques available today, many surgical procedures including laser therapy can be performed in an office setting with little discomfort.

Whether you need surgery or not will depend on how advanced your periodontal disease is. There are non-surgical treatments, such as root scaling and planing available, for those with mild gum disease. If you are in the advanced stages of gum disease, you may benefit from having surgery. With the latest technology and advanced techniques available today, many surgical procedures including laser therapy can be performed in an office setting with little discomfort.

Your periodontist can determine if dental implants are your best restoration option for your individual case. Dental implants have a natural look and feel and can help prevent shifting of surrounding teeth. Implants are often preferred to bridges and dentures because they are more secure and can help prevent bone loss. Also, adjacent teeth are not affected by the placement of implants.

A good oral hygiene regimen is imperative in preventing periodontal disease. Proper brushing and flossing, in conjunction with regular dental visits for professional cleanings twice a year, will help keep your smile healthy for life.

Healthy gums should not bleed when you brush your teeth. This is one of the early signs of gum disease. You should schedule an appointment with your periodontist for a complete periodontal screening.

Although it is not an airborne disease, research has indicated that the bacteria that cause gum disease can be passed through saliva. Therefore, families and couples who may be in close contact with a person with gum disease are also at risk. We recommend being screened for periodontal disease regularly if you are potentially at risk.

The term “periodontal” simply means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is mainly attributed to the bacteria in dental plaque, which causes the gums to become inflamed and infected. Other factors, such as smoking or tobacco use, poor nutrition, stress or pregnancy, may put you at risk of developing gum disease.

A periodontist specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease, as well as dental implant placement. All periodontists are general dentists, but they receive additional training of up to three years after dental school to obtain the necessary education to perform procedures in periodontics. Your general dentist may refer you to a periodontist if you exhibit the symptoms of gum disease; however, you may schedule an appointment on your own if you have concerns about your oral health.