Patient Information

Our goal, as with every new patient, is to help you enjoy great oral health.

Kuljeet Mehta is a specialist in periodontics. Our practice specializes in conservative treatment of gum disease, cosmetic procedures to aesthetically enhancee your smile, and dental implants that can replace single or multiple missing teeth. 

Although no one likes to go to the doctor or dentist, we strive to make your visits with us as comfortable and pleasant as possible. We strongly believe that our patient's comfort is an important part of quality dental care.

Kuljeet Mehta believes that your right to choose a dentist is an important freedom. We work closely with your dentist, but a referral by a dentist is not required to visit our clinic. We also welcome referrals from patients and friends of the practice.

The way I look at it is that it is my job as the periodontist to identify every area of concern in your mouth and recommend what we can do to get you as healthy as possible.

It's your job as the patient to decide what, if anything, you want to do about it.

Even a subtle change in your smile helps you to project an image of self-confidence and high personal esteem. When you feel good about yourself, it shows in your appearance. We are extraordinarily proud of our staff which is comprised of caring and dedicated professionals. They ensure that the patient's surgical and administrative needs are met as efficiently and smoothly as possible. We are here to listen to your questions and concerns and to help provide solutions leading to your better health. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding your care.

First Visit

What can I expect the first time I visit a periodontist?

During your first visit, Kuljeet Mehta will review your complete medical and dental history with you.

It's extremely important for your periodontist, Dr Mehta to know if you are taking any medications or are being treated for any condition that can affect your periodontal care.

During a periodontal examination, Kuljeet Mehta will gently place a small measuring instrument called a periodontal probe in the pocket between the teeth and gums to measure pocket depths and help make a diagnosis. Probing depths measuring 1-3mm are usually considered healthy. 4-5mm may indicate mild periodontitis, 5-6mm suggest moderate periodontitis, and 7mm or greater may indicate severe periodontitis. This helps your periodontist assess the health of your gums.

In addition to probing depth measurements, X-rays may be taken to evaluate the health of the bone supporting the teeth.

Will It Hurt?

We will be as gentle as possible. The periodontal exam can be completed with little or no discomfort.

Do I Need X-Rays?

We will need current periodontal x-rays in order to see disease not otherwise visible. If your referring dentist has taken x-rays, you may request that they be forwarded to us.

Will I Need Surgery?

Not everyone needs periodontal surgery. If treated early, gum disease can be controlled without surgery. We will make recommendations based on your individual situation. Our philosophy of practice is to treat as conservatively as possible to attain treatment goals

Can My Teeth Be Saved?

The recent advances in periodontal treatment allow us to successfully treat most teeth.

When Will I Go Back To My General Dentist?

Kuljeet Mehta and your dentist will work closely together. If crowns and fillings are needed your dentist will provide them. Regular visits to your dentist are an important part of periodontal maintenance.

What If I Don't Have Gum Treatment?

Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Delay can cause you further bone loss and more expense. If your teeth are lost, dentures are never as effective as your own teeth.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums that gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically-susceptible individuals. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. They may cause them to turn red, swell, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line.

As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.

However, don't be fooled. With periodontal disease, bleeding, redness, and swelling do not have to be present. Further, pain is usually not associated with periodontal disease.

Video on What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?


What is a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease such as scaling and root planing, soft tissue grafts and regenerative procedures. In addition, they can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire.

Periodontists often treat more problematic periodontal cases, such as those with severe gum disease or a complex medical history. Periodontists offer a wide range of treatments, such as scaling and root planing (in which the infected surface of the root is cleaned) or root surface debridement (in which damaged tissue is removed). They can also treat patients with severe gum problems using a range of surgical procedures. In addition, periodontists are specially trained in the placement, maintenance, and repair of dental implants.

A periodontist will evaluate your unique condition, and offer the treatment that is best for you; one that is supported by both science and experience. Your periodontist, Kuljeet Mehta can also answer any questions that you may have about alternate treatment options.

Who should see a Periodontist?

Some patients’ periodontal needs can be managed by the general dentist. However, as more and more patients are exhibiting signs of periodontal disease, coupled with research that suggests a relationship between periodontal disease and other chronic diseases of aging, periodontal treatment may necessitate a greater understanding and increased level of expertise by a trained specialist. Patients who present with moderate or severe levels of periodontal disease, or patients with more complex cases, will be best managed by a partnership between the dentist and periodontist.

Seeing a periodontist can help you keep your teeth for a lifetime, restore confidence in your smile and positively impact overall health.

When should I see a Periodontist?

If you value your oral as well as overall health, anytime is a good time to see a periodontist for a periodontal evaluation. The only way to detect periodontal disease is through a periodontal evaluation, if you:

Notice any symptoms of periodontal disease, including:

  • Gums that bleed easily, such as during brushing or flossing
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when periodontal disease is present. However, you don't need a referral to see a periodontist. In fact, there are occasions when you may choose to go directly to a periodontist or to refer a family member or friend to periodontist.

Video on How do I Know If I Have Periodontal (Gum) Disease?


Video on Tooth Loss due to Periodontal (Gum) Disease