expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Kevin B. Calongne, DDS

Periodontist

Dr. Kevin Calongne practices Periodontics in Houston, TX. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, and in the placement of dental implants. Dr. Calongne has expertise in the treatment of oral inflammation and often treats problematic periodontal cases, such as those with severe gum disease or a complex medical history. Some treatments that Dr. Calongne provides are scaling and root planing and root surface debridement.
34 years Experience
Dr. Kevin B. Calongne, DDS
  • Houston, TX
  • LSU School of Dentistry
  • Accepting new patients

How long does a front tooth implant last?

Most people will keep an implant for life.

Are dental implants a long-term solution?

Implants are a longer term solution to missing teeth than any other option. Most people keep implants for life. 

What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation in the gums without loss of attachment or bone loss. Periodontitis is, by definition, loss of attachment and/or bone. One does not necessarily lead to READ MORE
Gingivitis is inflammation in the gums without loss of attachment or bone loss. Periodontitis is, by definition, loss of attachment and/or bone. One does not necessarily lead to the other, but inflammation is not a sign of healthy gums. 

Can I treat bleeding gums at home?

If your gums bleed when you brush and floss, it isn't from too much brushing and flossing. It means you have gingivitis. You should see a dentist.

Should I seek a periodontal consultation for my bleeding gums?

Yes, bleeding gums are not a healthy condition. You should seek the opinion of a periodontist. 

What can cause gingivitis?

Gingivitis is caused by dental plaque, which is virtually 100% bacteria by weight. 

Are there any warning signs of gingivitis?

Redness and bleeding are the cardinal signs of gingivitis, but the gums may only bleed when your dentist probes them. Sometimes the gums are sore, but not always.

How safe are dental x-rays?

Dental X-rays are very safe. Current digital X-rays have radiation dosages between 20% and 40% of older film versions, which were still very safe. Regular dental X-rays are a good READ MORE
Dental X-rays are very safe. Current digital X-rays have radiation dosages between 20% and 40% of older film versions, which were still very safe. Regular dental X-rays are a good way to catch dental issues early, when the treatment can be more conservative and less costly.

Are bleeding gums in kids a cause of concern?

There are juvenile forms of gum disease, but the likely issue is that he isn't brushing his teeth well or isn't getting regular dental cleanings. 

Why do I have a thick white coating on my tongue?

Although there are several possibilities, what you are seeing could very well be thrush, also known as candidiasis. This is a fungal infection that can spread and be pretty severe. READ MORE
Although there are several possibilities, what you are seeing could very well be thrush, also known as candidiasis. This is a fungal infection that can spread and be pretty severe. The most common cause is taking antibiotics, especially if it's a long term course. Your physician or dentist can prescribe you an antifungal medication to address this, but ceasing the antibiotic is also necessary. 

Could my daughter's braces cause her gums to swell?

The swelling is likely due to poor oral hygiene around her appliances. 

What could be the reason for my mouth ulcers?

The most common ulcers in the mouth are aphthous ulcers. They can be caused by trauma or food allergies, but the cause is usually not apparent. There are other conditions that READ MORE
The most common ulcers in the mouth are aphthous ulcers. They can be caused by trauma or food allergies, but the cause is usually not apparent. There are other conditions that cause ulcers in the mouth that may be viral infections, fungal infections, or autoimmune diseases. You should see a periodontist for a diagnosis to try to get your condition under control. 

Are there any home remedies to treat gingivitis?

Yes, effective brushing and flossing with Listerine. 

What is the treatment for periodontitis?

It really depends on the type and severity of the disease. Only a full diagnosis by a periodontist can answer your question.

Is gum disease possible in a 3 year old?

That is not gum disease per se. Mouth breathing can create other gum issues, but she is probably just experiencing the discomfort associated with the loss of one or more baby teeth READ MORE
That is not gum disease per se. Mouth breathing can create other gum issues, but she is probably just experiencing the discomfort associated with the loss of one or more baby teeth and the eruption of a permanent tooth.

Can periodontal disease be reversed?

Yes, to a certain extent, but it depends on the severity and whether there is bone loss and what type of bone loss exists.

Can a tooth cleaning procedure cause inflammation?

A proper cleaning should reduce inflammation.

Why are my implants not working?

The 10 year survival rate of dental implants is about 92-98%, so there must be some biological or other reason for the failure. Smoking, diabetes, and poor oral hygiene are some READ MORE
The 10 year survival rate of dental implants is about 92-98%, so there must be some biological or other reason for the failure. Smoking, diabetes, and poor oral hygiene are some of the major factors in implant failure.

Since yesterday I can feel my gums being slightly inflamed. What could be the reason?

If you are female, it could be hormonal or even pregnancy. It could be plaque, or an allergy. See your dentist for a diagnosis.

I recently had an intense cleaning at the dentist because I had gingivitis. Will smoking make things worse?

Absolutely. Smokers are far more prone to gum disease than non-smokers.