College of Dentistry | University of Florida

Patient Information

 

Patient Information :
Frequently Asked Questions

Because the Department of Periodontology has a variety of clinics, we experience a wide range of questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions. You are encouraged to contact the particular clinic of interest for specific questions to get more personalized information.

What is Periodontology?
Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry which focuses on the supporting tructures of the teeth, such as the bone and gum tissues. The specialty involves diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting structures of teeth (periodontium), regeneration of lost supporting structures, and placement of dental implants.
What is a periodontist?
Periodontists are dentists that specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the diseases which affect the tissues which support the teeth. After they complete four years of dental school, they attend a periodontal residency, which is three years long. While in residency, they concentrate their studies on disease prevention, periodontal treatment, periodontal regeneration procedures, as well as dental implant placement.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease involves loss of supporting structures of the teeth. In this disease, bone is lost around teeth, which compromises the support of the teeth. Periodontal disease can eventually cause tooth loss. Therefore, periodontal treatment aims to prevent tooth loss and the progression of disease.
What types of procedures do periodontists perform?
Periodontists can perform a number of procedures. These include non-surgical and surgical procedures. The non-surgical procedure mainly performed is scaling and root planning (deep cleaning). Here, under local anesthesia, the roots of the teeth are cleaned and smoothed to remove plaque and calculus. This is a common procedure needed for patients with periodontal disease.
Surgical treatment includes, but is not limited to, periodontal surgery to reduce pockets, esthetic gum surgery, bone grafts to replace lost tissue or to support dental implants, placement of dental implants, crown lengthening, and sinus lifts to allow for placement of implants. In addition, sedation techniques are available to enhance the comfort level of the patient.
Why is oral hygiene (tooth brushing and flossing) so important?
Good oral hygiene is extremely important. The reason to practice good oral hygiene is to remove the bacterial colonies that naturally attach to your teeth and gum tissues. There are natural bacteria found in the mouth, however, if they are not removed successfully, the "bad" bacteria will start to populate and cause destruction to your teeth, gums, and bone that supports teeth. Tooth brushing removes the bacteria and flossing removes bacteria in spaces where the toothbrush has difficulty reaching.
Is dental work free at the College of Dentistry?
No. Even though the University of Florida College of Dentistry is state-funded, there are fees for procedures. This is not a free clinic. However, the option of being seen by a resident or student dentist is considerably less expensive.
How do I get assigned to a student?
Follow these instructions on how to become a patient in our TEAM Clinics.
Do we accept insurance?
Graduate Periodontology does not file any type of insurance. Patients are, however, encouraged to file on their own for reimbursement.

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