Updated May 2026
Periodontists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, as well as the placement of dental implants. Knowing the right questions to ask can help you get the most out of your appointment and feel confident about your care. Here are five questions worth raising at your next visit.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is the clinical term for gum disease. It is caused by bacteria in plaque that builds up over time and infects the gum tissue. If left untreated, it can cause significant damage to your smile and your long-term oral health. You can learn more on our Periodontal Disease conditions page.
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, characterized by swollen and bleeding gums. If not addressed, the bacteria progressively destroys the supportive tissue around the teeth. Periodontal pockets deepen, gums recede, and teeth can become loose. Additional symptoms may include persistent bad breath, bone loss, and tooth sensitivity.
What Is the Treatment for Gum Disease?
Treatment depends on the stage of the disease. When caught early, gum disease can often be managed with non-surgical procedures such as scaling and root planing or antibiotic therapy. For more advanced cases, osseous surgery or laser periodontal therapy may be the most appropriate option. This is why regular monitoring by a periodontist is so valuable — early identification leads to simpler, less invasive treatment.
Do I Need to See a Periodontist for Dental Implants?
While some general dentists place dental implants, periodontists have advanced surgical training specifically in the bone and gum tissue structures that determine implant success. This makes them particularly well suited to handle implant placement, especially in cases involving receding gums or bone loss. Learn more about our dental implant options.
Is It Possible to Fix a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile occurs when an excess of gum tissue is visible above the teeth when smiling, making the teeth appear shorter than they are. Through esthetic crown lengthening and gum contouring, a periodontist can remove and reshape the excess tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth surface, creating a more balanced and proportionate smile.
These five questions provide a strong foundation for understanding your periodontal health and what your treatment options may involve. We encourage patients to ask as many questions as they need to feel fully informed and comfortable with their care.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Beth Tomlin or Dr. Stephanie Bowers, contact our team online or call Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (214) 522-9700.
Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry serves patients in Dallas, TX and the surrounding communities.
