Frequently Asked Periodontal Questions – Bethel Park, PA
Ask Your South Hills of Pittsburgh Periodontal Specialist
Dr. LoCastro enjoys taking his time with each of his patients and answering all of their questions so they can leave our periodontal office feeling confident about the future. You’re always welcome to give our specialty dental office a call if there is something you would like to ask, but first, be sure to read over our answers to some of our most popular questions below.
What is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a type of dental specialist, one who focuses on finding, diagnosing, and treating issues that affect the gums and bone that support the teeth. In order to gain this distinction, Dr. LoCastro had to complete a 4-year dental program followed by a 2-year residency dedicated solely to providing periodontal care. Because of this, he has a level of expertise when it comes to gum disease therapy and dental implant surgery that is second to none.
Why should I visit a periodontist instead of a general dentist?
For most people, a general dentist is the perfect oral healthcare provider. However, for patients with more advanced issues, like severe gum disease or tooth loss, a periodontist has more experience and training in handling these kinds of problems. With a periodontist like Dr. LoCastro, he can offer patients more treatment options and a higher level of care thanks to his specialty focus, leading to more predictable and lasting results.
Should I be worried about my bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums is a common symptom that could point to many things. You may simply be brushing/flossing your teeth with too much pressure, or you might have early-stage gum disease. Try cleaning your teeth with a lighter touch for a few days, and if the bleeding continues, you should go ahead and call your dentist, as this will allow them to treat a minor infection right away. If the problem is more serious, then Dr. LoCastro can offer the care you need.
How long will it take to get dental implants?
The dental implant process can vary in length quite a bit depending on a few factors, namely how many new roots a person needs as well as the condition of their jawbone. A patient with a healthy jawbone replacing a single tooth may be able to complete the treatment in a few months, while someone with bone loss who requires a full denture might take closer to a year. Dr. LoCastro can give you a more definitive timeline when you come to see him for a consultation.
Do you take dental insurance?
Yes! Dr. LoCastro is proud to be one of the few dental specialists in the area that accepts several major dental insurance plans. Just give our periodontal office a call, and our team can go over your coverage and discuss how much we can help you save.
I don’t have dental insurance. How else can I pay for my care?
Our practice currently accepts all forms of payment (cash, check, all major credit cards), and for those who need help with their out-of-pocket expenses, we offer financing as well. This can be used to spread out the cost of treatment across several months, and to learn more about our available plans, give us a call today.