Dental services · Miami Lakes
Gum disease treatment & periodontal surgery in Miami Lakes
Bleeding, swollen or receding gums are early signs of gum disease. Our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Rafael Porras, treats it in our Miami Lakes office.
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- English & Spanish spoken
- Fees explained before treatment
Know the signs
Gum disease is common — and treatable
Gum disease starts as gingivitis: red, puffy gums that bleed when you brush. Without treatment it can become periodontitis, where infection destroys the bone that holds your teeth, leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.
Gum health also matters for your overall health; periodontitis has been linked with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. That’s why “Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body” is our motto.
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Swollen or tender gums
- Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
Treatment options
From deep cleanings to surgery
Scaling & root planing
A deep cleaning below the gumline removes tartar and bacteria, usually with local anesthesia.
Periodontal maintenance
Cleanings every three to four months keep gum disease under control.
Periodontal surgery
When pockets are deep, periodontal surgery lets the periodontist clean and reshape the area so it can heal.
Your doctor
Board-certified periodontist
Dr. Rafael Porras
Certificate in periodontics and a master of science in dentistry from LSU; diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Treats gum disease and complex surgical cases.
FAQ
Still have a question?
Call (305) 512-0066 — our front desk answers in English and Spanish.
Gum Disease Treatment questions
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis can be reversed with professional cleaning and good home care. Periodontitis can be controlled with treatment and regular maintenance.
What is a periodontist?
A dentist with additional years of specialty training in the gums and bone that support the teeth, and in dental implants.
Does a deep cleaning hurt?
We numb the area, so most patients feel little discomfort. Gums may be tender for a day or two.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss, red or swollen gums, bad breath that doesn’t go away, gums pulling away from the teeth, and teeth that feel loose or shift. Early gum disease often causes no pain, so regular exams matter.
When is periodontal surgery needed?
When deep pockets remain after a deep cleaning, or when gum recession or bone loss needs repair. Our periodontist explains whether periodontal surgery is needed and what each option involves before any treatment starts.
What is recovery like after periodontal surgery?
Most people return to normal activities within a day or two. Expect some tenderness and swelling for a few days; soft foods, cold compresses and the instructions your periodontist gives you help. A follow-up visit checks healing.
How can I keep gum disease from coming back?
Brush twice a day, floss daily, don’t smoke and keep up with periodontal maintenance cleanings, which are often scheduled every three to four months after treatment.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Research has linked gum disease with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Treating your gums is one part of caring for your overall health.
Your confident smile starts here
Request an appointment online or give us a call — we’ll find a time that fits your schedule and answer insurance questions before you come in.
7415 Miami Lakes Dr, Miami Lakes, FL 33014 · Get directions
Office hours
Mon–Thu 9–5
Fri 9–3