Review frequently asked questions compiled by the AAP or submit your own question to a periodontist, who's an expert in the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of gum disease....
Ask a Periodontist
Do you have a question about periodontal health or how to maintain healthy teeth and gums? Review our frequently asked questions or submit your own question to a periodontist, who's an expert in the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of gum disease.
Please note that the Academy cannot answer each inquiry individually. The Academy is also unable to answer questions regarding specific clinical advice or treatment, diagnosis, or fees for service. Please discuss your individual dental or medical concerns with a periodontist. Our website can help you
Frequently Asked Questions
- I was recently diagnosed with periodontal disease. My periodontist mentioned that laser surgery would be an appropriate option for my treatment course. Is laser surgery safe? Is it as effective as traditional treatment courses?
- My periodontist says that he is “board certified.” What does that mean?
- I lost a tooth, and I’m interested in replacing it with an implant. How much does the average implant cost?
- My dentist told me that I have signs of periodontal disease and that I should see a periodontist for a consultation. How can I find a periodontist in my area?
- I have heard there is a connection between gum disease and heart disease. Is this true? Where can I find more information?
- Both of my parents have periodontal disease, and I’m worried that it may be genetic. Is there a way to determine my risk for developing gum disease?
- What can I do at home to prevent periodontal disease?
- My periodontist informed me that I need implants, but I can’t afford them at this time. Is there any financial assistance for periodontal treatments?
- What are common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?
Still Have Questions?Submit your question to a periodontist below. |
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
- I was recently diagnosed with periodontal disease. My periodontist mentioned that laser surgery would be an appropriate option for my treatment course. Is laser surgery safe? Is it as effective as traditional treatment courses?
There seems to be a lot of mixed messages when it comes to the use of lasers in periodontal treatment. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that any specific laser wavelength is superior to the traditional treatment methods of the common periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis. Therefore, it is always in your best interest to talk with your individual periodontist about the particular laser or therapy he or she plans on using, and why he or she feels that it is the best course of treatment for your particular case. If you still have concerns, you may want to contact another periodontist in your area for a second opinion. - My periodontist says that he is “board certified.” What does that mean?
All periodontists must complete an additional two to three years of specialized training in periodontics following dental school. However, some periodontists opt to take the board-certification examination, which is offered by the American Board of Periodontology once per year. Board certification in periodontology denotes someone who has made significant achievements beyond the mandatory educational requirements of the specialty, including demonstrating a comprehensive mastery of all phases of periodontal disease and treatment and in the placement of dental implants. Recertification is required every six years. - I lost a tooth, and I’m interested in replacing it with an implant. How much does the average implant cost?
Due to trade laws the American Academy of Periodontology is unable to track the costs associated with placing implants. In addition, the costs of implants can often vary from urban to rural areas and will depend on how many implants you receive as well as the type of implant. You should discuss the financial and time commitments associated with dental implants with your periodontist. Additionally, you may want to call severalperiodontal offices in your area to find out the average cost associated with the procedure you are looking to have done. - My dentist told me that I have signs of periodontal disease and that I should see a periodontist for a consultation. How can I find a periodontist in my area?
When you are diagnosed with symptoms of periodontal disease, seeing a periodontist for a consultation is a great first step. There are a few ways to find a periodontist in your area. First, you can ask your dentist for a referral. Your dentist most likely has a periodontist that he or she has worked with in the past, and may even be familiar with the types of services that a particular periodontist specializes in.
You can also find a periodontist on the AAP website. To use the form, enter basic information about where you live and how far you’re willing to travel to see a periodontist. The website will then provide a listing of periodontists in your area.
Finally, you may want to ask friends or family members about their experiences with their periodontists. They will be able to provide feedback and offer advice as well! - I have heard there is a connection between gum disease and heart disease. Is this true? Where can I find more information?
The connection between gum disease and heart disease is a very hot topic in the field of periodontics right now! Several research studies have indicated that heart disease and gum disease may be linked, and researchers suspect that inflammation may be the basis behind this relationship. If you are at risk for heart disease, it is a good idea to mention this to your periodontist, since gum disease may increase this risk. Get additional information on the connection between heart disease and gum disease, as well as the connection between gum disease and other systemic conditions. - Both of my parents have periodontal disease, and I’m worried that it may be genetic. Is there a way to determine my risk for developing gum disease?
First of all, congratulations on being proactive about your health! Recent research has shown that genetics may be involved in a person’s risk for gum disease, but there are a variety of other factors that also play a role. The American Academy of Periodontology has an online risk assessment tool that you can use to determine your risk level for gum disease. The test only takes a few minutes to take, and you should discuss the results with your periodontist.Take the gum disease risk assessment test. - What can I do at home to prevent periodontal disease?
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to take good care of your teeth and gums at home. This includes brushing your teeth after every meal and before bedtime, flossing at least once each day, and seeing your dentist or periodontist for regular exams twice a year. Spending a few minutes a day on preventative measures may save you the time and money of treating periodontal disease! - My periodontist informed me that I need implants, but I can’t afford them at this time. Is there any financial assistance for periodontal treatments?
There are a few resources you can research for financial assistance. The first is your periodontist. Many periodontists are willing to set up financing options, such as a payment plan. They also may know of insurance plans that can help cover the cost of your implants.
Another resource is your state dental society. They may be able to give a listing of organizations or individuals that may help subsidize the cost of your implants.Find the contact information for your state society.
Finally, contact a local college or university. Many universities have dental schools that offer clinics that provide care at a reduced cost.Select from a list of schools that have periodontal programs. - What are common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning symptoms- particularly pain- may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease. However, you should still be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms, which include:- Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
- Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or when eating certain foods
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Sores in your mouth
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your dentist or periodontist right away!Find a periodontist in your area.
Find Out More
Gum Disease Links
- Assess Your Risk
- Causes
- Disease Types
- Warning Signs
- Ask a Periodontist
- Facts & Fallacies
- Treatment Options
- Health Risks
- Oral Health Tips
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- U.S. Periodontal Health
- Gum Disease Myths
- New Diabetes Guidelines
- Perio-Cardio Connection
- Implants Minimize Bone Loss
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