What Is a Periodontist?

When it comes to oral health, you might be familiar with general dentists who help keep your teeth clean and address cavities, but there’s another specialist worth knowing about: the periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, as well as in the placement of dental implants. They also work to maintain the health of the soft tissue and bones that support your teeth, which play a critical role in your overall oral health.

If you’re dealing with gum-related concerns or considering dental implants, a periodontist has the training and expertise to offer advanced solutions that go beyond general dental care.

Education and Training of a Periodontist

Becoming a periodontist requires years of additional education and training. After completing dental school, periodontists spend three extra years in a specialized residency program focusing on periodontal health and advanced treatment methods. During this time, they gain extensive experience with procedures that address gum disease, soft tissue grafting, and implant placement.

Their training covers a broad range of topics, including diagnosing complex gum conditions, performing surgical and non-surgical procedures, and mastering implant techniques. With this expertise, periodontists are highly skilled in handling even the most challenging cases related to the gums and underlying bone structures. If you need specialized care for gum issues or are considering dental implants, a periodontist is uniquely qualified to help.

Key Services Provided by a Periodontist

Periodontists offer a variety of services that focus on the health of your gums and the structures supporting your teeth. Here are some of the primary services you can expect from a periodontist:

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is one of the most common reasons people visit a periodontist. This condition starts with gingivitis, where the gums become inflamed, red, and may bleed. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the infection extends to the supporting bone structure, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Periodontists offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments to manage gum disease. Non-surgical treatments, like scaling and root planing, help clean below the gum line to remove harmful bacteria and plaque. In more advanced cases, periodontists may perform surgical procedures such as flap surgery, which involves lifting the gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup deep below the gum line. With their specialized training, periodontists are well-equipped to tailor treatments to your specific needs and ensure your gums remain as healthy as possible.

Dental Implants

For those who have lost teeth, dental implants are a popular, long-term solution. Periodontists are experts in placing implants and managing the health of the surrounding gum and bone tissue, which is essential for the success of the implant. Before the implant is placed, a periodontist may perform pre-implant procedures, such as bone grafting, to ensure a stable foundation for the implant.

During the implant procedure, the periodontist places a small titanium post into the jawbone, where it will fuse with the bone over time to create a strong and secure anchor for a replacement tooth. Periodontists are also skilled in managing the recovery and maintenance of implants, ensuring that you achieve the best possible outcome.

Gum Recession and Soft Tissue Grafting

Gum recession can occur for a variety of reasons, including gum disease, brushing too hard, or even genetics. When the gums recede, the roots of the teeth are exposed, increasing the risk of decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. Periodontists use soft tissue grafting techniques to restore receded gums and protect the tooth roots.

Soft tissue grafting typically involves taking a small piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth or another area and attaching it to the affected area. This procedure not only restores the appearance of your gums but also reinforces their ability to protect your teeth. For patients experiencing gum recession, soft tissue grafting is an effective way to restore gum health and prevent further damage.

Bone Grafting and Ridge Augmentation

Healthy bone structure is essential for keeping your teeth secure and stable. If you’ve lost bone due to gum disease, trauma, or tooth loss, a periodontist may recommend a bone graft or ridge augmentation. Bone grafting involves adding bone tissue to areas where it has been lost, which helps restore bone density and provides a strong foundation for dental implants if needed.

Ridge augmentation is another procedure that periodontists perform to rebuild the natural contours of the gums and jaw. This is especially helpful for patients who have lost bone volume and want to improve the look and functionality of their smile. With these procedures, periodontists help maintain the strength and integrity of your jaw, supporting both aesthetics and oral health.

Other Cosmetic and Functional Periodontal Procedures

Beyond these essential treatments, periodontists also offer procedures designed to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your gums and smile. For example, crown lengthening can expose more of the tooth’s surface, which may be necessary for restorative dental work or to create a balanced smile. Additionally, gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the gum line for a more symmetrical appearance.

When Should You See a Periodontist?

There are several signs and symptoms that might indicate it’s time to visit a periodontist:

• Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it could be an early sign of gum disease.
• Receding Gums: Visible recession or longer-looking teeth might indicate gum recession, which may require a periodontist’s expertise.
• Loose Teeth: Teeth that feel loose may be a sign of advanced gum disease affecting the bone structure.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath could be caused by bacteria buildup in the gums.

In many cases, your general dentist may refer you to a periodontist if they see signs of advanced gum disease or other conditions that require specialized treatment. Regular visits to a periodontist can help prevent gum disease, protect your teeth, and support long-term oral health.

Benefits of Seeing a Periodontist

There are distinct advantages to seeing a periodontist for gum-related issues. Periodontists bring expertise and advanced tools to treat conditions that impact not just your gums but the foundation of your oral health—the bone structure. Their specialized focus on periodontal health allows them to provide targeted care that addresses the root causes of gum disease and related issues, ensuring a healthier smile and a more stable foundation for your teeth.

Whether you’re dealing with an advanced case of gum disease, require dental implants, or need help with gum recession, a periodontist’s expertise can make a significant difference in the quality of your care and your long-term oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between a periodontist and a general dentist?

A periodontist specializes in the gums and bone surrounding the teeth, while a general dentist focuses on overall dental health, including cleanings, fillings, and exams.

Is gum disease reversible?

Early stages like gingivitis are often reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene, while more advanced stages require ongoing treatment.

What should I expect during my first visit to a periodontist?

Your periodontist will assess your gum and bone health, review your medical history, and discuss any symptoms. They may perform a deep cleaning or recommend further treatment.