A Periodontist is a dentist that specializes in the treatment and care of diseases and infections of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth as well as the jawbone where the teeth are grounded.
Periodontists are the premier experts when it comes to such categories of oral health as they require an additional three years of education past the basic dental requirements which is already a four year program.
Periodontist not only are skilled with the most advanced periodontal disease treatment techniques, but also are qualified to perform a wide array of cosmetic procedures.
Signs You Need A Periodontist
The most common way appointments are scheduled with Periodontists is due to dental referrals, where if during the process of a regular dental cleaning, the dentist has reason to suspect gum disease they will refer you to a periodontist. Though by referral is the most common way to get into a periodontist, it is not the only way, as self-referrals are also accepted. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, it is recommended that you contact a periodontist at your earliest convenience.
| • | Gum recession: If you notice that your teeth are beginning to look a bit longer than they used to, or perhaps that the gums appear to be “pulling back” you should contact a periodontist immediately. The recession of the gums signals bone loss as a result of gum disease. |
| • | Loose teeth: If your teeth feel loose or you notice that they appear to have shifted you should contact a periodontist immediately as such is an indication of bone loss and damage to the jawbone. |
| • | Bad breath: Bad breath or regular halitosis despite the very best oral hygiene practices is indicative of infection, gingivitis or periodontitis. |
| • | Bleeding of the gums: One of the most indicative signs of gum disease is that of unexplained bleeding gums. If you notice that throughout the course of the day your gums start to bleed you should contact a periodontist immediately. |
Upon visiting a periodontist, he/she will do a thorough examination during which time they will either officially diagnose gum disease or clear you. If diagnosed they will present to you a number of both non-surgical and surgical procedures aimed at helping stop the progression of the disease.
Please contact us if you have any questions about periodontists.