Best Periodontist in Houston
Why Gum Health Matters
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Gum (periodontal) disease is more common than many realize – nearly half of adults over age 30 have some form of gum diseasemagazine.medlineplus.gov. If left untreated, gum disease can progress from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adultshealth.harvard.edu. But the impact of gum health goes beyond just your mouth. Research has found links between periodontal disease and systemic health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and even pregnancy complicationshealth.harvard.edu. In other words, taking care of your gums isn’t just about keeping your teeth – it’s about protecting your overall health and well-being.
Because gum disease often progresses silently, you might not notice a problem until significant damage has occurred. Early signs can include red, swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gums pulling away from the teethhealth.harvard.edu. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s crucial to see a specialist. This is where Dr. Friedberg & Associates comes in. As a dedicated Houston periodontist (gum specialist), Dr. Rob Friedberg helps patients prevent and treat gum disease before it leads to tooth loss or other complications. By prioritizing gum health, you’re investing in a healthier smile and a healthier you.
Meet Dr. Friedberg & Associates – Houston’s Gum Specialist
Dr. J. Robert “Rob” Friedberg, DMD, is a board-certified periodontist and dental implant specialist serving Houston.
Dr. Friedberg & Associates is known for providing exceptional periodontal care in Houston. For over a decade, Dr. J. Robert Friedberg has dedicated himself to the art and science of periodontology and implant dentistry. He completed his undergraduate studies at Emory University and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut, followed by a rigorous three-year residency in periodontics at UConn. This advanced training – along with being a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology – means Dr. Friedberg has expertise above and beyond a general dentist, especially in treating gum disease and placing dental implants. (Just as you’d see a cardiologist for a heart issue, it makes sense to trust a gum specialist for gum issues.
What truly sets Dr. Friedberg & Associates apart is the combination of world-class expertise with a warm, personal touch. Dr. Friedberg is highly credentialed and continually invests in the latest dental technology, yet patients equally appreciate his approachable, friendly demeanor that puts them at ease. His work has earned recognition from professional organizations like the American Academy of Periodontology and the International College of Dentists. – honors that reflect his skill and commitment to excellence. More importantly, Houston patients consistently give Dr. Friedberg & Associates top ratings, citing the team’s compassion and quality of care. In fact, one recent patient review even stated “Dr. Robert Friedberg and Associates is the best periodontist in Houston, TX. When you visit Dr. Friedberg & Associates, you can trust that you’re in the hands of a highly qualified gum specialist in Houston who genuinely cares about your health.
Advanced Periodontal Services Offered
At Dr. Friedberg & Associates, patients have access to a wide range of advanced gum treatments and restorative dental services under one roof. Some of our specialized services include:
Comprehensive Gum Disease Treatment: As a leading Houston periodontist, Dr. Friedberg provides expert diagnosis and treatment for all stages of gum disease. This may involve deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), medications, and personalized oral hygiene guidance to control infection and inflammation. Dr. Friedberg’s goal is to stop gum disease in its tracks and preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. Because untreated gum disease is not only painful but can lead to bone loss and tooth loss, timely periodontal care is essential. Patients appreciate that Dr. Friedberg takes time to educate them about their condition and options, so they can make informed decisions about their gum health.
LANAP Laser Treatment: We are proud to offer LANAP® laser therapy – a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment for gum disease. LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure) uses a specialized laser to remove infected tissue and bacteria from periodontal pockets, without cutting or stitching the gums. It’s often called a “no cut, no sew, no fear” procedure because it’s more comfortable than traditional gum surgery and promotes faster healing. With LANAP laser treatment, Dr. Friedberg can target gum infection with great precision while preserving healthy tissue. Most patients experience far less pain and bleeding, and they can resume normal activities much sooner. If you’ve been avoiding gum surgery out of fear, LANAP laser therapy offers a gentler alternative with excellent results in controlling periodontal disease.
Illustration: The LANAP laser fiber (about the width of a few hairs) targets infected gum tissue while sparing healthy tissue.
Dental Implants (Tooth Replacement): Missing teeth? Dr. Friedberg is also one of the best dental implant specialists Houston has to offer. Dental implants are small titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth, providing a sturdy foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Over the past few decades, implants have become the gold standard for replacing lost teeth because they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. At Dr. Friedberg & Associates, we utilize advanced 3D imaging and guided techniques for precise implant placement. Implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and fuse with the bone over time, forming a strong, permanent replacement that won’t slip or make embarrassing clicking noises. Whether you need a single tooth implant or a full arch restoration, our team will develop a custom treatment plan to restore your smile’s appearance and bite. Dr. Friedberg’s extensive experience with implants, including complex cases, means patients can expect top-notch results. (Tip: Many patients ask about implant costs – see our FAQ below for more on the cost of dental implants in Houston.)
Illustration: A dental implant is placed in the jawbone to anchor a realistic prosthetic tooth (crown) above the gums.
Gum Grafts & Recession Treatments: If you have receding gums or exposed tooth roots, Dr. Friedberg can help rebuild your gumline through gum grafting procedures. Gum recession often results from periodontal disease or aggressive brushing, and it can lead to tooth sensitivity, a “long tooth” appearance, and higher risk of decay. In gum graft surgery, a thin piece of gum tissue (either from the patient’s palate or a donor source) is gently placed to cover the exposed roots and reinforce the shrinking gums. This procedure protects your teeth and can even improve your smile aesthetics by evening out your gumline. Dr. Friedberg offers different grafting techniques based on your needs – including connective tissue grafts, pedicle grafts, and less invasive options. In fact, our practice provides the advanced Pinhole Surgical Technique for some instances of recession, which involves no scalpel or sutures for faster healing. After treatment, patients typically find that tooth sensitivity decreases and their gum health improves dramatically. Our team will ensure you are comfortable during the procedure (sedation options are available) and give you clear instructions for a quick recovery. By treating gum recession, we help patients keep their teeth strong and smiles confident for years to come.
What to Expect During a Visit
Visiting a periodontist might sound intimidating, but at Dr. Friedberg & Associates we strive to make the experience friendly, comfortable, and informative. Here’s a practical guide on what to expect during your appointment with our team:
Warm Welcome & Check-In: From the moment you step into our Houston office, you’ll be greeted by a friendly staff who will help you check in and complete any necessary paperwork. New patients can fill out health history and insurance forms (available online beforehand for your convenience). We take pride in running on time, so you likely won’t be kept waiting long in our reception area – which one patient described as clean and welcoming. If you have dental anxiety, let us know; our team is very understanding and even offers amenities or sedation options to help you feel at ease.
Comprehensive Gum Evaluation: Next, you’ll meet Dr. Friedberg, who will listen to any concerns or symptoms you have. He’ll perform a thorough examination of your gums, teeth, and oral tissues. This typically includes measuring the pockets around each tooth with a small periodontal probe (to check for gum detachment), assessing gum recession, checking for loose teeth, and reviewing any x-rays or 3D scans if needed. Our office uses advanced diagnostics like digital X-rays and 3D cone-beam CT imaging to get a complete picture of your oral health. The process is painless – we might take a 3D image of your jaws for precise implant or gum treatment planning if relevant. Throughout the exam, Dr. Friedberg will explain his findings in simple terms. We believe in patient education, so feel free to ask questions! As one reviewer noted, “they explain everything to you” during the visit.
Personalized Treatment Plan Discussion: After the exam, Dr. Friedberg will discuss his recommendations with you. Every patient is unique, so we tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. Dr. Friedberg will outline what he found – for example, the severity of any gum disease or the viability of an implant in a certain area – and then propose solutions. He’ll review the treatment options, whether it’s a deep cleaning, LANAP laser therapy, a gum graft, dental implant placement, or perhaps a combination of procedures. You’ll learn the pros and cons, expected outcomes, and time frame for each option. We encourage you to voice any concerns or preferences; the plan will be a collaboration between you and our team. Our staff can also review insurance coverage and financing options for the proposed treatments, so you understand the costs involved. (We accept CareCredit and offer payment plans to make care accessible – because finances shouldn’t be a barrier to a healthy smile.) Before you leave, we’ll make sure you feel confident about the next steps.
Comfortable Treatment & Follow-Up: Depending on the nature of your visit, we may even begin treatment the same day (for instance, performing a scaling and root planing in an area that needs it, or taking impressions for a dental implant guide). However, for larger procedures like implant surgery or multiple gum treatments, we’ll schedule a separate appointment at your convenience. Rest assured that comfort is a top priority at Dr. Friedberg & Associates. During any treatment, we offer local anesthesia to numb the area, and sedation dentistry (such as oral sedation or IV sedation) if you’re anxious or undergoing a lengthy procedure. Our clinical team is gentle and attentive – we check in frequently to ensure you feel okay. Patients are often surprised at how easy and painless periodontal treatment can be. In fact, one patient remarked that their gum surgery was “basically painless” and recovery was quick under Dr. Friedberg’s care. After your procedure, we’ll provide detailed home-care instructions and schedule any necessary follow-ups. We stay with you every step of the way: from initial consultation to healing checks, you’ll have full support. Our goal is not only to treat your immediate issue but also to set you up for long-term oral health success with regular maintenance and check-ups.
Patient Comfort, Technology, and Successful Outcomes
At Dr. Friedberg & Associates, patient comfort and positive outcomes aren’t just goals – they define everything we do. We know that visiting a gum specialist can be daunting for some, so we’ve cultivated a soothing, state-of-the-art environment to put our patients at ease. Our office is modern and equipped with the latest dental technology, from 3D imaging and digital scanners to the PerioLase® MVP-7 laser for LANAP and high-magnification perioscopes for detailed root cleaning. This advanced technology allows us to diagnose problems earlier and perform treatments with extreme precision. For example, our 3D cone beam CT scanner gives a detailed map of your jaw, enabling safer and more accurate implant placements. The high-tech tools also often mean less discomfort and faster healing for our patients, because procedures can be done in a minimally invasive way.
Technology aside, we place equal emphasis on the human touch. Our team members are hand-picked for their caring and friendly personalities. From the assistants to the front desk staff, everyone truly wants you to have a great experience. Patients frequently comment on how welcomed they feel – “the staff are professional and caring” and “know you by name before you even check in,” according to testimonials. Dr. Friedberg himself is known for his gentle approach and excellent chairside manner. He takes time to listen and will never rush you through a procedure. If you’re nervous, he’ll talk you through it or crack a joke to lighten the mood. We also offer comfort options like cozy blankets, headphones for music, and sedation if needed, so you can relax during treatment.
The result of this focus on comfort and technology is clear: our patients achieve excellent outcomes. Treatments that might sound scary – like gum surgeries or implants – turn out to be surprisingly easy experiences. With techniques like LANAP, many patients report minimal pain and quick recovery times. Our dental implant patients often tell us that the procedure was easier than they expected, and they love being able to chew and smile confidently again. By using advanced methods and personalized care, we consistently deliver successful results, whether it’s saving a loose tooth, curing a gum infection, or giving someone a brand-new implant-supported smile. And we stand by our work – we’ll schedule follow-ups to monitor healing and make sure you’re happy with your treatment. At Dr. Friedberg & Associates, you’re not just another patient; you’re part of our dental family, and we want you to enjoy a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth.
It’s no surprise that our practice has garnered hundreds of 5-star reviews and heartfelt testimonials. Patients describe Dr. Friedberg as “excellent” and our team as “top notch… patient, kind, caring. Knowing that we’ve helped ease someone’s pain or restore their confidence in their smile is the ultimate reward. We measure our success by our patients’ smiles and health. When you leave our office happier and healthier than when you came in, we know we’ve done our job. That commitment to patient-centered care is what makes Dr. Friedberg & Associates stand out as one of the premier periodontal practices in Houston.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best periodontist in Houston for LANAP?
A: If you’re searching for the best periodontist in Houston for LANAP, many patients will point you to Dr. Friedberg & Associates. Dr. Rob Friedberg is one of only a few Houston periodontists offering the advanced LANAP laser gum treatment, and he has extensive training and experience with this technology. LANAP is a specialized procedure – dentists must be certified to perform it – and Dr. Friedberg has made it a cornerstone of his practice to provide gentler, high-tech gum therapy. Under his care, patients with moderate to severe gum disease have seen great success using LANAP to avoid more invasive gum surgeries. Dr. Friedberg’s reputation for excellent outcomes, combined with a friendly approach, has made him a top choice for those seeking LANAP laser treatment in Houston. In fact, his practice is often recommended by both general dentists and satisfied patients for anyone looking for the best gum specialist in Houstonwho offers LANAP. (Just take a look at our patient reviews – many speak to the quality of care and comfortable experience during laser gum treatment!)
Q: How much do dental implants cost in Houston?
A: The cost of dental implants in Houston can vary quite a bit depending on your specific needs. For a single dental implant, which includes the implant post, abutment (connector), and crown, the average price range in Houston is about $3,500 to $7,500 per tooth. Where you fall in that range depends on factors like: how complex your case is, whether you need additional procedures (for example, bone grafting or tooth extractions), the type of implant and materials used, and even the expertise of the implant specialist. If you need multiple implants or a full-mouth implant solution (such as All-on-4 implant dentures), the total cost will be higher (potentially $15,000–$30,000 or more for an arch. It’s important to remember that while implants have a higher upfront cost than something like dentures, they are a long-term investment – often lasting decades and preserving your jawbone health, which can save money on future dental work. At Dr. Friedberg & Associates, we provide a personalized cost estimate after your consultation. We’ll break down all the fees and also discuss financing options and insurance coverage (insurance may cover parts of the procedure like extractions or the crown). Our goal is to make sure you understand the costs and feel comfortable with your treatment plan. Even if dental implants seem expensive, many patients say the freedom and confidence they gain are well worth it!
Q: Does LANAP laser gum treatment hurt?
A: LANAP laser treatment is surprisingly comfortable for most patients. One of the big advantages of LANAP over traditional gum surgery is that there’s no cutting and stitching of the gums, so the procedure is far less invasive. Dr. Friedberg will numb your mouth with local anesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the laser therapy itself – you might feel some warmth or pressure, but many patients say it was easier than a deep cleaning. After the procedure, the recovery tends to be quick and mild. Because the laser is very precise and helps the tissue heal, there is usually minimal bleeding and swelling. The LANAP protocol has been described as “more comfortable with faster recovery and less post-op sensitivity” compared to standard surgery. Most people can return to their normal activities either the same day or the next day. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often enough to manage any soreness. Of course, everyone’s pain tolerance is different, but it’s common that patients do not need strong pain medication after LANAP. Dr. Friedberg will also provide post-op guidelines (like a soft diet for a couple of days and gentle rinsing) to ensure you heal comfortably. Our patients who have undergone LANAP are often pleasantly surprised at how little discomfort they experienced, especially if they had dreaded gum surgery. If you have specific anxieties, talk to us – we can also offer sedation to keep you relaxed during the procedure. Overall, LANAP makes treating gum disease a much less painful process than it used to be.
Q: What’s the difference between a dentist and a periodontist?
A: A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in gum health and dental implants. All periodontists first train as general dentists, but then they complete three additional years of residency training in periodontology after dental school. This advanced training focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of gum diseases, the surgical techniques to treat advanced periodontal issues (like gum grafts or regenerative procedures), and the placement of dental implants. In essence, a periodontist is the gum specialist in the dental world. By comparison, a general dentist handles broad oral health issues – cleanings, fillings, crowns, etc. – and will often refer patients to a periodontist for complex gum problems. Think of it like the medical field: your general dentist is like your primary care doctor, while the periodontist is like a cardiologist or other specialist you see for a specific issue. You would still see your general dentist for routine check-ups and minor gum inflammation, but if you have moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis), persistent gum recession, or need an implant, a periodontist has the specialized expertise to provide the best care. Dr. Friedberg is a board-certified periodontist, meaning he has passed rigorous exams and is recognized for his proficiency in this field. Patients come to our Houston periodontal office when they need advanced gum treatments or implant surgery done with a high level of skill. That said, we work hand-in-hand with general dentists – we make sure to communicate and coordinate care, so you get comprehensive dental care. In summary, while all periodontists are dentists, not all dentists have the specialized training of a periodontist. If your gums need extra help, seeing a periodontist is the right call.
Q: When should I see a periodontist?
A: It’s a good idea to see a periodontist if you have any ongoing issues with your gums or bone support of your teeth, or if your dentist recommends it after a check-up. Here are some scenarios when you should consider seeing a periodontist like Dr. Friedberg in Houston:
Gum Disease Symptoms: If you experience symptoms such as gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, gum swelling or tenderness, receding gums (teeth looking “longer”), persistent bad breath, or especially if you notice pus around the gums or any loose teeth, these are clear signs of periodontal diseasehealth.harvard.edu. Early gum disease (gingivitis) might be managed by a general dentist, but anything beyond that (periodontitis) warrants a specialist’s care so it doesn’t worsen. A periodontist can perform a deep cleaning, laser therapy, or other interventions to halt the disease progression.
Your Dentist’s Referral: Often, general dentists refer patients to a periodontist if they detect deep periodontal pockets, advanced bone loss on X-rays, or gum issues that require specialized treatment (like grafting or complex extractions). If your dentist has advised you to see a periodontist, it’s wise not to put it off. They likely noticed something that needs expert attention.
Missing Teeth or Implant Consideration: If you are missing one or more teeth and are considering dental implants, a periodontist is one of the specialists best qualified to place implants. In our office, we routinely handle implant cases, from single tooth implants to full-mouth restorations. Seeing a periodontist ensures that implant placement and gum health around the implant are managed properly. Even if you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for implants due to bone loss, a periodontist might offer solutions like bone grafting to make it possible.
Gum Recession or Aesthetic Concerns: If you have significant gum recession, very sensitive tooth roots, or don’t like how your smile shows too much tooth/too little gum, a periodontist can evaluate whether a gum graft or other soft-tissue procedure is needed. Dr. Friedberg frequently treats recession to prevent further damage and improve aesthetics.
Family History or Risk Factors: If close family members have lost teeth to gum disease, or if you have risk factors like diabetes or tobacco use, it’s proactive to get a periodontal evaluation. Sometimes gum disease can be present with very mild symptoms, especially in smokers (smoking can mask gum bleeding). A periodontist can do a thorough screening and set you on a preventive care regimen if needed.
In summary, you should see a periodontist any time your gum health is in question or you require specialized procedures related to gums and bone. It never hurts to have an evaluation – Dr. Friedberg can determine if you truly need treatment or if you can continue with routine dental care. Remember, catching periodontal issues early can save your teeth. If you’re ever unsure, you’re welcome to schedule a consultation at our office for peace of mind.
Q: Can receding gums grow back on their own?
A: Unfortunately, receding gums do not grow back on their own once the gum tissue has pulled away. Gum tissue is not like skin – it won’t regenerate to its former position after it has receded. This means that if you’ve lost gum coverage on your teeth (commonly due to periodontal disease or trauma from hard brushing), the exposed roots will remain exposed unless a treatment is done. The good news is that while you can’t naturally regrow gum tissue, periodontists can repair receding gums using procedures like gum grafting or the Pinhole Surgical Technique. In a gum graft, we take donor tissue (either from your palate or a biocompatible source) and place it over the receded areas, effectively giving your tooth root new coverage. Over time, the graft integrates and becomes part of your gum. This not only improves the appearance (covering that long, exposed part of the tooth) but also protects the tooth from cavities and reduces sensitivity. Less invasive methods like the pinhole technique involve loosening existing gum tissue and repositioning it to cover the root. Dr. Friedberg will choose the best approach based on how much recession you have and where it’s located. Additionally, treating the cause of the recession is important – for example, if gum disease caused it, that needs managing, or if brushing too hard is a factor, we’ll advise gentler techniques. The bottom line: receded gum tissue won’t come back by itself, but with professional periodontal treatment, you can restore the gumline and maintain a healthier smile. Don’t ignore gum recession, because exposed roots can lead to other problems; consult a specialist about your options to fix it.
Ready to Restore Your Gum Health?
Your gums are too important to neglect – they truly are the gateway to a healthy smile and body. The silver lining is that, no matter the state of your gums now, help is available. Dr. Friedberg & Associates has the expertise, technology, and heart to get your periodontal health back on track. Whether you’re dealing with sore, bleeding gums or looking for the best dental implant specialist Houston can offer to replace missing teeth, our team is here for you.
We invite you to experience our patient-focused approach firsthand. From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice the difference: a knowledgeable staff that treats you like family and a doctor who listens and cares. If you’re worried about discomfort, rest assured that we prioritize gentle techniques and comfort measures to make every visit a positive one. Our Houston office offers a one-stop solution for everything from advanced LANAP laser treatment to routine gum maintenance – all aimed at giving you healthy gums and a confident smile for life.
Don’t wait to take charge of your gum health. Early intervention can save your teeth and improve your wellbeing. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Friedberg, we warmly encourage you to reach out. Remember, at Dr. Friedberg & Associates, your smile is our passion and your health is our priority.
Call our Houston office or book an appointment online today – let us help you achieve the healthy gums and beautiful smile you deserve. We look forward to welcoming you and being your partner in gum health!
