Periodontics

Periodontal or gum disease starts with the accumulation of plaque and calculus on the root surface. If not removed, this buildup causes gingivitis, which manifests itself with bleeding and swollen gums. There is no bone loss associated with gingivitis, though. This stage is reversible, and treatment usually consists of non-surgical therapy, periodic cleanings (maintenance therapy), and good oral hygiene.

If not treated, the plaque and calculus continue to progress down the root surface and bone loss occurs. This stage of the disease is not reversible and treatment ranges from non-surgical therapy to surgical intervention with possible regeneration of lost tissue. Certain factors can exacerbate the manifestations of periodontal disease, too.

The most common factors that can exacerbate gum disease are:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Genetic predisposition
• Certain medications
• Trauma from occlusion
• Pregnancy

A periodontist is a dental doctor who specializes in periodontal or gum disease. Specifically, the periodontist is the member of your dental care team who will diagnose periodontal disease and prescribe a treatment, as well as create a plan to prevent it from occurring if it has not developed yet. In some cases, the periodontist who sees you can be the same person who acts as your general dentist.

Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of gum disease should see a periodontist. As mentioned, common symptoms include irritated or bleeding gums, halitosis (chronic bad breath), loose teeth, and more. If you are attending routine dental examinations, then you can expect that your general dentist will notice these signs and refer you to a periodontist for specialized treatments.

Periodontal treatments performed by a trained periodontist can bring these benefits and more:

• Fresh breath
• Healthy, bright smile
• Gum pain and bleeding relief
• Improved color of affected gums
• Better heart health
• Avoidance of more intense procedures
• Increased self-image and self-confidence

The benefits of periodontal treatments are almost too many to list in any one place. If you have questions about how periodontal care can help you, then we recommend speaking directly to a member of our team, especially because one patient will benefit differently than the next.

A periodontist is a type of dental doctor. All periodontists are dentists, but not all dentists have periodontal training.

During the first visit, a periodontist will want to review your oral health history for signs of gum disease and other issues. There might also be an examination of your gums, followed by a discussion of the next treatment steps.

Periodontal disease in its several forms like gum disease is contagious. It can be spread by sharing food utensils, cups, or toothbrushes, as well as through kissing.

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, then you might have to see the periodontist more frequently than you see your general dentist. It is not unusual to see a periodontist once every three months or even once a month for updates, depending on the severity of the gum disease.

Many dental insurance plans do provide coverage for periodontal treatments, especially those that are recognized as proven dental procedures. If you have any questions about the cost of periodontal care based on your insurance, then we would be happy to talk with you.