When you experience a severe periodontal concern, you may need treatment from a periodontist, who is a specialist in treating your “periodontium.” Whether you suffer from mild to severe gum disease, a periodontist will diagnose and treat your condition, returning your smile to optimal health and function.
What Is A Periodontist?
Periodontists specialize in treating the tissues that support your teeth, such as your gums and jawbone. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of advanced training beyond dental school. They are also trained in the placement of implants. While your general dentist will restore your teeth, your periodontist will work to restore the surrounding tissues when a problem arises.
When the plaque on your teeth hardens and turns into tartar – also called calculus – you may be at risk for developing gum disease. In its earliest stages, the bacteria within plaque move beneath your gumline, causing mild irritation and inflammation. This is called gingivitis, a reversible disease. However, once the disease progresses past gingivitis, it is referred to as periodontitis. These periodontal diseases require treatment beyond traditional cleanings. Whether you have mild or advanced periodontal disease, you will require treatment from a periodontist, including a deep cleaning to remove plaque. You may also need gum contouring to repair recessed gums.
What Are the Benefits of Seeing A Periodontist?
A periodontist has the training, skills, and special tools necessary to remove your plaque buildup and restore your teeth and gums. The benefits of in-office periodontal treatment include:
- You will not need to visit a separate office for periodontal treatment.
- Our periodontist will treat your gum disease with ultrasonic scaling
- Your disease will be monitored to ensure your gums remain healthy
- Our periodontist will repair damage associated with advanced periodontal disease, using techniques including gum contouring, tissue grafting, and the extraction of teeth
- Our periodontist and dentist will work together to create a customized care plan, to ensure you achieve the improved oral health you need, as well as the restorative and cosmetic corrections for a fully functional, beautiful smile
Do You Make A Good Candidate for Periodontal Treatment?
If you suffer from periodontal disease, you may make an excellent candidate for periodontal treatment. In fact, ignoring a visit to a periodontist may result in severely damaged teeth, tooth loss, and bone deterioration. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms associated with periodontal disease, contact us immediately to schedule an appointment:
- Red gums
- Swollen gums
- Gums that feel tender to the touch
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
