A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. These supporting structures include the gingiva (gums), periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone that hold teeth in place. Periodontists receive advanced training beyond dental school in the management of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. This condition involves inflammation and infection of the tissues that support the teeth and can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth mobility if not managed. Periodontal treatment may include procedures such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), periodontal maintenance therapy, gum grafting, regenerative procedures, and surgical treatment to restore or preserve supporting tissues. Periodontists are also commonly involved in dental implant placement and management of tissues surrounding implants. In addition to treating periodontal disease, periodontists evaluate risk factors that may influence gum health, including smoking, systemic conditions such as diabetes, oral hygiene practices, and genetic susceptibility to gum disease.
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Periodontist
Clinical Significance
Periodontists treat conditions involving inflammation, infection, and damage to the tissues that support teeth. Untreated periodontal disease may lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth instability.
Benefits to Treatment
Specialized expertise in gum disease management, treatment of advanced periodontal conditions, improved preservation of supporting tissues, and support for dental implant therapy.
How it Works
A periodontist evaluates the gums and supporting tissues through clinical examination, periodontal measurements, and dental imaging. Based on the findings, the specialist may recommend nonsurgical therapy, periodontal surgery, or preventive care strategies.
What it's Used For
To diagnose and treat gum disease, manage periodontal tissue health, perform gum related surgical procedures, and place or maintain dental implants.
What Patients Can Expect
During a periodontal evaluation, the specialist examines the gums, measures periodontal pocket depths, and reviews dental imaging to assess bone and tissue health. Treatment options may be discussed depending on the condition of the gums and supporting structures.
Downside
Periodontal treatment may involve multiple visits, specialized procedures, or surgical interventions depending on the severity of gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a periodontist specialize in?
A periodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating gum disease and conditions affecting the tissues that support the teeth.
How is a periodontist different from a general dentist?
General dentists treat many oral health conditions, but periodontists receive additional specialized training focused on gum disease, periodontal surgery, and dental implants.
When should someone see a periodontist?
Patients may be referred to a periodontist when they have moderate to severe gum disease, gum recession, bone loss around teeth, or when dental implant treatment is being considered.
Do periodontists place dental implants?
Yes. Many periodontists are trained to place dental implants and manage the surrounding gum and bone tissues that support them.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) may improve with proper oral hygiene and professional care. More advanced periodontal disease may require specialized treatment to manage the condition.