Frequently asked questions.

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection and inflammation of the gums and the bone that hold your teeth in place. Warning signs:

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums pulling away from the teeth
• Bad breath that doesn't go away
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Teeth that feel loose

Plaque left along the gum line makes the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria collect. Left alone, the gums and bone around the teeth break down.

When the disease is advanced, a regular cleaning isn't enough. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes plaque and tartar down to the bottom of each pocket and smooths the roots so the gums can heal and reattach. After that, you will need cleanings more often to keep it under control.

A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is for a healthy mouth with no bone loss, bleeding or gum pockets. It removes plaque, tartar and stains above the gum line and just below it, usually twice a year.

If you have had gum disease, bone loss, pockets deeper than 4 millimeters, bleeding gums or exposed roots, a regular cleaning isn't enough. Periodontal maintenance cleans the full length of each tooth down to where the root, gum and bone meet, smooths rough root surfaces and tracks pocket depths. It is usually done three to four times a year.

Insurance often bills the two differently: a regular cleaning is preventive, while periodontal maintenance is usually a basic service that may count toward your deductible.

Yes. We are an out-of-network practice and accept all major PPO dental plans. Send us your insurance information before your first visit and we file your claims for you; your insurance reimburses you directly. See insurance and financing for CareCredit and other payment options.

Book online (opens in a new tab) or call us at (321) 254-4613. Before your first visit, you can fill in your patient forms online (opens in a new tab).

We are open Monday to Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM. We are closed Friday through Sunday.

If you have a severe toothache, a broken tooth or a lost filling, call us right away at (321) 254-4613. We offer same-day emergency appointments to relieve pain as quickly as possible.

Dr. Patel and the team follow the infection control procedures recommended by the CDC, OSHA, the EPA and the American Dental Association:

• Personal protective equipment: gowns, gloves, masks, eye protection and face shields
• Chemical disinfection of countertops and surfaces
• Sterilization of all equipment before every use
• Single-use disposable materials

Ask us any time; we are glad to explain our procedures.