Periodontist in Largo, FL: Gum Disease Treatment & Gum Grafting

What Does a Periodontist Do?

A periodontist is a dental specialist in the gums and the bone that supports the teeth, and in placing dental implants. Periodontal care covers the full range of gum and bone health — from non-surgical treatments like deep cleanings to surgical procedures like gum grafting and bone grafting.

Having an in-house periodontist means you can receive specialist-level gum and implant care at the same office where you get your regular dental care. You don't need to travel to a separate specialist's office or manage referrals between providers.

Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease often develops gradually, and many people don't notice it until it has progressed. Signs to watch for include:

• Bleeding when you brush or floss
• Red or swollen gums
• Gums pulling away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Teeth that feel loose
• A change in your bite

If you notice any of these, schedule an exam. Early treatment is simpler and more effective than treating advanced gum disease.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

When a regular cleaning isn't enough to address gum disease, a deep cleaning — also called scaling and root planing — cleans below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth.

This non-surgical treatment is often the first step in managing gum disease. It removes the bacterial buildup that causes inflammation and allows the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the teeth.

Gum Grafting

When gums have receded and exposed the roots of the teeth, gum grafting can cover those exposed roots. The procedure protects the tooth from sensitivity and decay and can improve the appearance of the gumline.

Dr. Guirguis performs gum grafting at our Largo office. An exam will show whether grafting is appropriate for your situation.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting rebuilds bone that has been lost due to gum disease, tooth loss, or other causes. It is often performed to prepare the jaw for a dental implant or to preserve the bone after a tooth is removed.

Without adequate bone, an implant cannot be placed. Bone grafting creates the foundation needed for a successful implant outcome.

Sinus Augmentation (Sinus Lift)

In the upper back jaw, the sinus cavity can sit close to the bone, leaving insufficient height for an implant. A sinus augmentation — also called a sinus lift — adds bone in that area to create enough support for implant placement.

This procedure is performed in-house by Dr. Guirguis. Dental implants in Largo, placed in-house by our periodontist.

Why Gum Health Matters for Implants and Your Teeth

Healthy gums and bone are the foundation for both your natural teeth and dental implants. Gum disease that goes untreated can lead to bone loss, loose teeth, and tooth loss over time. It can also affect the long-term success of implants.

Treating gum disease before placing implants — and maintaining gum health afterward — is part of how we approach implant care at Largo Dental & Implant Center.

Cost, Insurance and Financing

Cost depends on the procedure. We give you an estimate before treatment begins so you know what to expect.

We are in-network with these PPO dental plans: Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, United Healthcare, and BCBS Florida Combined Life. We are also in-network with these Medicare Advantage plans: Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Humana.

We accept most PPO dental plans. If your plan isn't listed, call (727) 584-9200 and we'll check your benefits.

Patients without insurance may qualify for our in-office dental discount plan. CareCredit and Sunbit financing are available.

Serving Largo and nearby: Clearwater, Seminole, Belleair, Belleair Bluffs, Pinellas Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.