972-727-5599Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, yet gum disease is usually painless, so many people do not realize they have it. Gums that bleed when you brush, look red or swollen, or seem to be pulling away from your teeth can all be early warning signs.
At the office of Dr. Peter Hazim in Allen, Texas, we help patients protect their gums through regular exams, professional cleanings, and treatment for gum disease as part of our general dentistry care. Dr. Hazim is a prosthodontist who has practiced in the Allen area for more than 25 years, and when your case calls for a periodontist, we will tell you and help you with next steps.
Gum Care We Provide in Allen
Our goal is to find gum problems early and keep your natural teeth healthy for the long term. Our services include:
You can learn more about our gum disease treatment, dental sealants, oral cancer screenings, and dental implants. If your gums need surgical care, such as grafting or crown lengthening, we will let you know whether we can treat you or whether a referral is the better choice.
How Is a Periodontist Different From a General Dentist?
Periodontists primarily treat the gums and the bone that supports your teeth, while general dentists typically treat the teeth themselves. A general dentist may refer you to a periodontist when a case is more advanced than general dentistry alone can address, and periodontists complete additional training beyond dental school.
Dr. Hazim and Dr. Lazaro are prosthodontists, so they plan your care around healthy gums and a stable bite. When advanced gum surgery is needed, we explain why and talk through next steps so your treatment stays coordinated.
Signs You May Need Gum Care
According to the American Dental Association, gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults, and it is possible to have it without any warning signs. These symptoms are worth a visit:
Even if you notice none of these, regular exams help us catch problems early, before they become harder to treat.
How We Help Prevent Gum Disease
Routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar, which slows the growth of unhealthy bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. During your visit, our team also checks your gums, and we may take digital X-rays to look beneath the surface.
At the earliest stage, gum disease is usually reversible with a professional cleaning and good brushing and flossing at home, which is why regular dental exams and cleanings matter so much. Dr. Hazim takes time to listen and answer your questions, and we never rush a decision.
Gum Care and Periodontal FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about gum care.
How is gum disease treated?
Early gum disease may respond to a professional cleaning and better daily care, while deeper pockets may need scaling and root planing. If your gums need advanced treatment, we will tell you and discuss next steps.
Can gum disease be reversed?
The earliest stage, called gingivitis, is usually reversible with a professional cleaning and daily brushing and flossing. More advanced gum disease can often be managed, so catching it early matters.
How often should I have a cleaning?
Many patients benefit from a cleaning every six months, and we may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease. Your dentist will suggest a schedule that fits your needs.
Do you offer gum grafting or crown lengthening?
Surgical gum procedures, such as grafting and crown lengthening, typically call for a periodontist. During your visit, we will tell you whether we can treat you or whether a referral is the better choice.
Does my dental benefits plan cover gum treatment?
Coverage varies by plan. We are happy to file claims for patients with PPO dental benefits, and our team can review your patient portion before treatment. We also offer CareCredit and Cherry financing and an in-house membership plan for patients without dental benefits.
Schedule Your Gum Health Visit With Dr. Peter Hazim
Dr. Peter Hazim has practiced in Allen for more than 25 years. He graduated from Damascus University, continued his studies at the University Rene Descartes in Paris, and became certified in prosthodontics at the Loyola VA hospital in Chicago. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association, keeps learning at the Spear Institute and Pankey Institute, and D Magazine awarded him Best Dentist in Dallas from 2017 to 2022. Read more about Dr. Hazim and his background.
If you are concerned about your gums, contact our office to schedule your visit. Our multilingual team looks forward to helping you.