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If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a dental specialist focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum problems. Meeting with a specialist is an important step toward restoring your oral health, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to ask. To make the most of your appointment, here are 5 essential questions to ask your periodontist about your gum disease treatment.
1. What Stage of Gum Disease Do I Have?
Gum disease can range from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis. Knowing which stage you’re in helps you understand the severity of your condition and what type of treatment is needed. Gingivitis may be reversed with improved hygiene and professional cleanings, while periodontitis often requires more advanced therapies, such as scaling and root planing, gum grafts, or laser treatment. Ask your periodontist to explain your diagnosis clearly so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
2. What Treatment Options Are Available for Me?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for gum disease. Your periodontist may recommend non-surgical options like deep cleaning, antibiotics, or LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure).
In more advanced cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair gum tissue or bone damage. Be sure to ask about all of the options available to you, including the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of each. Understanding your choices empowers you to make informed decisions about your care.
3. How Will This Treatment Improve My Oral and Overall Health?
It’s important to know not only how treatment will address your gum disease but also how it will benefit your overall health. Since gum disease is linked to systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, effective treatment can have positive effects beyond your mouth. Your periodontist can explain how controlling inflammation and infection in your gums may improve your long-term health.
4. What Can I Do at Home to Support My Treatment?
Professional treatment is just one part of managing gum disease—your daily habits play an equally important role. Ask your periodontist for specific recommendations on brushing, flossing, and using tools like water flossers or antimicrobial rinses. They may also suggest lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or improving your diet, to enhance treatment results and prevent gum disease from returning.
5. What Will My Follow-Up Care Look Like?
Managing gum disease doesn’t end with a single treatment. Most patients need more frequent dental cleanings and ongoing monitoring to keep their gums healthy. Ask your periodontist how often you should return for maintenance visits and what signs to watch for at home. Understanding your follow-up plan ensures that you stay on track and maintain the progress you’ve made.
Seeing a periodontist is a valuable opportunity to take control of your gum health. By asking the right questions, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of your diagnosis, treatment options, and the steps you can take to protect your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Bita Farhoumand is a Board-Certified periodontist who earned her dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry. She stays current in her field through professional memberships in distinct organizations such as the American Academy of Periodontology, the Northeastern Society of Periodontists, and the Virginia Society of Periodontists. Dr. Farhoumand and our team would be glad to serve you with cutting-edge, non-invasive gum disease therapy. Schedule an appointment online or call (760) 470-4664.
