Home » Frequently Asked Questions » Periodontics & Gum Treatment by Prosthodontist Houston – Dr. Arun Vashisht | FAQs

If you’re dealing with gum disease, gum recession, bone loss, or inflammation, it’s important to understand your treatment options. As a leading prosthodontist houston, Dr. Arun Vashisht treats complex periodontal cases with precision and advanced technology. Below are some of the most common questions patients ask about periodontics, gum health, and how Dr. Arun can help restore both function and aesthetics.

  • What is periodontics?

    Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on the gums, jawbone, and supporting structures that keep your teeth stable. It includes the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease, as well as procedures like gum grafting and bone regeneration.

  • What causes gum disease?

    Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup, but contributing factors include smoking, poor oral hygiene, genetics, medical conditions (like diabetes), stress, and hormonal changes. Early detection is essential to prevent irreversible bone loss.

  • What are the stages of gum disease?

    Gum disease begins as gingivitis, which involves inflammation and bleeding. If untreated, it may progress to periodontitis, where the bone supporting the teeth begins to break down. Advanced periodontitis can lead to loose teeth or tooth loss.

  • What are common symptoms of periodontal disease?

    Symptoms may include bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, tooth sensitivity, or swollen gums. In many cases, gum disease progresses quietly with minimal discomfort, making professional checkups essential.

  • Can gum disease be reversed?

    Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional cleaning and good home care. Once bone loss occurs in periodontitis, the condition cannot be fully reversed but can be controlled through treatment and maintenance.

  • How is gum disease treated?

    Treatment depends on severity and may include deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antimicrobial therapy, periodontal maintenance, gum grafting, laser therapy, or bone regeneration. Severe cases may require surgical intervention.

  • Why is periodontal health important for dental implants?

    Healthy gums and adequate bone support are essential for implant stability. Gum disease can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues around an implant. Treating periodontal issues beforehand increases long-term implant success.

  • What is gum recession and how is it treated?

    Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, exposing sensitive roots. Treatment options include gum grafting, tissue regeneration, or addressing contributing factors such as bite issues or aggressive brushing.

  • What is bone grafting in periodontics?

    Bone grafting is a regenerative procedure used to rebuild lost bone caused by gum disease or tooth loss. It is commonly performed to strengthen the area before placing dental implants or to stop the progression of periodontal bone loss.

  • How often is periodontal maintenance needed?

    Patients with a history of gum disease typically require maintenance every 3–4 months. This helps prevent reinfection, reduce pocket depth, and protect the supporting bone around teeth and implants.

  • Is periodontal treatment painful?

    Most treatments are well-tolerated and performed with local anesthesia. Patients may experience mild soreness afterward, but discomfort is usually minimal and resolves quickly with proper care.

  • How does periodontics relate to prosthodontics?

    Periodontal stability is the foundation of successful prosthetic treatments such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. A prosthodontist houston often collaborates with periodontal therapies to create strong, long-lasting restorative results.

  • Can periodontal disease affect overall health?

    Yes. Studies show that untreated gum disease is linked to systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and chronic inflammation. Managing gum health can support overall wellness.

  • Are periodontal problems hereditary?

    Some people have a genetic predisposition to gum disease, meaning they may develop periodontal issues even with good oral hygiene. Regular monitoring and preventive care are especially important in such cases.

  • When should someone see a periodontal specialist?

    A referral may be needed for persistent bleeding gums, deep pockets, gum recession, loose teeth, bone loss, or if dental implants are planned in an area with weakened bone or gum support. Early evaluation helps prevent more serious complications.