When to See a Periodontist

Periodontal Disease

When to See a Periodontist

Periodontal care can be recommended in several ways. During a routine dental exam, your general dentist or dental hygienist may notice signs of gum disease and suggest a consultation for specialized periodontal treatment. You may also choose to schedule an appointment directly at Mainline Dental Arts — no referral is required.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, we strongly encourage you to contact our office promptly and schedule a visit with Dr. Michael Strassberg, DDS, Dr. Juliana Ko, DMD, or Dr. Milita Borguet, DMD

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or even eating regular foods is one of the most common warning signs of periodontal disease. Healthy gums should not bleed during normal oral care.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or even eating regular foods is one of the most common warning signs of periodontal disease. Healthy gums should not bleed during normal oral care.

Loose Teeth or Receding Gums

Teeth that appear longer than usual or feel loose may signal gum recession or underlying bone loss caused by advanced periodontal disease.

Related Health Conditions

Patients with certain systemic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, osteopenia, or osteoporosis may be more prone to periodontal infections. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that can enter the bloodstream and potentially impact other areas of the body.

Warning Signs of Oral Pathology

The inside of a healthy mouth is lined with smooth, coral-pink tissue known as mucosa. Any noticeable change in color, texture, or appearance may be an early warning sign of an underlying condition. In some cases, these changes may indicate oral cancer.

Common warning signs include:

Red patches (erythroplasia) or white patches (leukoplakia) inside the mouth
A sore that does not heal or bleeds easily
A lump, thickening, or rough area inside the mouth
Persistent sore throat or hoarseness

Difficulty chewing or swallowing

These symptoms may appear on the lips, cheeks, roof of the mouth (palate), gums, tongue, face, or neck. It is important to note that oral cancer does not always cause pain, and discomfort is not always present in early stages. However, unexplained facial or oral pain should also be evaluated promptly.

At Mainline Dental Arts, Dr. Michael Strassberg, DDS, Dr. Juliana Ko, DMD, and Dr. Milita Borguet, DMD recommend performing a monthly self-examination of your mouth and reporting any unusual changes.

Your mouth serves as an important early warning system for your overall health. Do not ignore persistent sores, unusual lumps, or suspicious changes. If you notice anything concerning, please contact our office so we can evaluate your symptoms and provide appropriate care.

When to See a Periodontist