22 May 2023
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of periodontal disease and the structures that support the teeth, including the gums, bones, and ligaments.
You may need to see a periodontist if you have gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) or periodontitis (advanced gum disease), or if you are experiencing gum recession, tooth loss, or bone loss.
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth that is not removed by proper oral hygiene, leading to inflammation of the gums and the destruction of the supporting bone.
There are two main stages of periodontal disease:
Some common symptoms of periodontitis include:
The dangers of leaving periodontal disease untreated can be severe. If the disease progresses to periodontitis, it can cause irreversible damage to the teeth, gums, and bone, leading to tooth loss. In addition, periodontal disease has been linked to other chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
A periodontist focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periodontal disease and other conditions that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, bone, and ligaments. Periodontists are experts in the management of gum disease and are trained to perform procedures such as scaling and root planing, gum graft surgery, and dental implant placement.
They also work closely with general dentists and other dental specialists to provide preventative dental care to patients. Periodontists play a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of the teeth and gums, and can help patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health for a lifetime.
A periodontist must undergo specialized training beyond dental school to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. They perform surgical procedures and other treatment options that require an increased level of postgraduate training.
While dentists and periodontists share some common areas of expertise, such as dental exams, cleanings, and fillings, periodontists have specialized knowledge and extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of advanced periodontal disease and other complex conditions.
Some of the most common periodontal procedures include scaling and root planing, which involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and smoothing the root surfaces to promote healing. Other procedures may include gum grafts to replace lost tissue, periodontal pocket reduction to eliminate pockets where bacteria can thrive, and dental implants to replace missing teeth. These procedures are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing serious dental problems such as gum disease and tooth loss.
Scaling and root planing is one of the most common treatments used to address the early stages of gum disease. The process includes a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and root surfaces to promote healing and prevent further damage.
A periodontist can perform various gum surgeries, including gum grafts, to repair or restore the gum tissue that has been lost due to disease or trauma.
If bone loss has occurred due to periodontal disease or tooth loss, a periodontist can perform a bone grafting procedure to regenerate the bone and provide a foundation for dental implants or other restorations.
A periodontist can place dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that support a dental crown, bridge, or denture, to replace missing teeth.
You should consider seeing a periodontist if you are experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease such as red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, or a gummy smile.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dental professional as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specialized care if you have advanced gum disease or if you require more complex treatment options, such as gum surgery or dental implant placement.
You may also consider seeing a periodontist if you have a family history of gum disease, smoke or use tobacco products, have diabetes, or have other risk factors for periodontal disease.
Our team of experienced dental professionals is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care for their oral health. We use the latest technology and techniques to diagnose and treat periodontal disease in its earliest stages, preventing it from progressing and causing further damage to your teeth and gums. With our personalized approach to treatment, we will work with you to develop a plan that meets your specific needs and goals.