Periodontists: Gum Disease Experts

Learn about periodontists, their role in gum health and dental implants, the difference between periodontists and general dentists, common treatments they provide, and when to seek their expertise.

Dr Rockson Samuel

May 30, 2023

Periodontists: Specialists in Gum Health and Dental Implants

If you're experiencing gum problems or require dental implants or cosmetic gum treatments, it's essential to seek the expertise of a periodontist. These dental specialists focus on the health of gums and the supporting structures around teeth, playing a crucial role in treating periodontal disease and performing dental implant procedures.

Why Should You See a Periodontist?

  1. Symptoms of Gum Disease: If you notice gum recession, redness, swelling, bleeding gums, deep periodontal pockets, or persistent bad breath (halitosis), it may indicate advanced gum disease that requires periodontal treatment. Periodontists are skilled in diagnosing and treating gum diseases effectively.

  2. Dental Implants: If you have a missing tooth and need a dental implant to replace it, periodontists are experts in implant placement. They assess the health of your gums and jawbone, ensuring a successful integration of the artificial tooth roots (implants) made of titanium.

  3. Bone Grafts: In some cases, there may be insufficient bone in the jaw for dental implant surgery. Periodontists perform bone grafts to augment the bone, providing a solid foundation for the implants and improving the chances of long-term success.

  4. Cosmetic Concerns: If you have a "gummy smile" or suffer from gum recession, a periodontist can offer cosmetic treatment options. They can perform soft tissue grafts to address gum recession or gingivectomy procedures to remove excess gum tissue and improve the appearance of your smile.

Periodontists vs. General Dentists

While general dentists provide routine oral care and common dental procedures, periodontists specialize in treating gum diseases, performing dental implant surgeries, and providing specific cosmetic treatments for gums. General dentists may refer patients to periodontists for more complex procedures and specialized care beyond their scope of practice.

Qualifications of Periodontists

Periodontists undergo extensive education and training to become specialists in their field. They complete a bachelor's degree, four years of dental school, and an additional three years of residency training focused on periodontal health. To maintain their expertise, periodontists stay updated with advancements in dental health and are recertified regularly. They are also skilled in performing cosmetic procedures, ensuring comprehensive care for your gums.

Common Periodontal Treatments

  1. Scaling and Root Planing: This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and roots, managing gum disease and preventing its progression.

  2. Dental Implants: These are artificial tooth roots (implants) made of titanium that integrate with the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Periodontists are experts in implant placement, ensuring optimal results.

  3. Dental Crown Lengthening: This surgical procedure exposes more tooth structure by reducing surrounding bone or gum tissue. It is often necessary for dental crown or filling placement.

  4. Gum Grafts: This procedure involves placing new gum tissue over areas of gum recession to protect and support exposed tooth roots, enhancing the health and aesthetics of your smile.

  5. Pocket Reduction: Surgical treatment to reduce periodontal pockets, deep spaces between the teeth and gums. This allows for effective cleaning and prevents disease progression.

  6. Gingivectomy: A cosmetic procedure to remove excess gum tissue and improve the appearance of a "gummy smile."

  7. Bone Grafting and Ridge Augmentation: These procedures involve replacing lost bone tissue and reshaping grafted bone to enhance function and aesthetics. They are often performed in preparation for dental implants.

Summary

Periodontists are vital for maintaining gum health and providing specialized treatments. They diagnose and treat gum diseases, perform dental implant procedures, and offer cosmetic solutions for various gum-related concerns. If you experience gum problems or require dental implants or cosmetic gum treatments, seeking the expertise of a periodontist is advisable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. What conditions do periodontists treat? Periodontists specialize in treating conditions related to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. This includes periodontal disease (gum disease), gum recession, deep periodontal pockets, bone loss, and other issues affecting the periodontium.

  2. When should I consider seeing a periodontist? You should consider seeing a periodontist if you experience symptoms of gum disease such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, gum recession, deep periodontal pockets, persistent bad breath, or if you require dental implants or cosmetic gum treatments.

  3. How are periodontists different from general dentists? While general dentists provide routine oral care and common dental procedures, periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating gum diseases, performing dental implant surgeries, and providing specific cosmetic treatments for gums. General dentists may refer patients to periodontists for more complex procedures and specialized care.

  4. What are dental implants, and why are periodontists involved in their placement? Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a strong foundation for the attachment of replacement teeth. Periodontists are involved in dental implant placement because they have expertise in assessing the health of the gums and jawbone, which are essential for successful implant integration.

  5. Are periodontal treatments painful? Periodontal treatments are typically performed using local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience. While some discomfort or mild soreness may be experienced after the procedures, it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your periodontist will provide instructions for post-treatment care and pain management, if needed.


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