At Caton J. State, DDS, Periodontics & Dental Implants, our team of periodontists provides a range of services to help our patients maintain healthy gums and teeth. Below, you will find a guide regarding what you need to know about periodontists and when to see one for specialty care. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, contact our Placerville, CA office today!
What Is A Periodontist?
In the dental field, a periodontist is a specialist that has been trained in preventing, diagnosing, and treating various stages of periodontal disease, as well as placing dental implants for patients with missing teeth. They have a high level of experience and training in treating gums, bones, and other tissues that support the teeth.
What Do Periodontists Do?
Periodontists provide a range of services to help patients maintain healthy teeth and gum tissue, including:
- Diagnosis of periodontal disease: A periodontist is trained to diagnose periodontal disease, which is an infection of the gums and the surrounding tissues that support the teeth. They can identify the stage and severity of the disease and develop a treatment plan to help manage and control it.
- Treatment of periodontal disease: A periodontist offers a range of treatment options for periodontal disease, including scaling and root planing, laser therapy, and crown lengthening. They can also perform surgical procedures such as osseous surgery.
- Placement of dental implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are used to secure replacements for missing or damaged teeth. Periodontists are trained to place dental implants and can work with patients to determine the best type of implant for their needs.
- Crown lengthening: Crown lengthening is a procedure in which the gum tissue is reshaped to expose more of the tooth’s surface or to expose more of the tooth in order to properly restore it. This procedure is often done to remove excess gum tissue that contributes to periodontal disease.
- Periodontal maintenance: Periodontal maintenance involves regular cleanings and checkups to help prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. Periodontists can develop a customized maintenance plan to help patients maintain healthy gums and teeth.
- Tooth extractions: Periodontists are also skilled in performing tooth extractions, which may become necessary due to advanced periodontal disease, severe decay, or impacted teeth. Utilizing their specialized training and expertise, periodontists can carefully remove the affected tooth while preserving the surrounding bone and soft tissue.
When To See A Periodontist
If you are experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to visit a periodontist:
- Bleeding gums: Bleeding gums are a common sign of periodontal disease. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, it’s important to see a periodontist.
- Swollen or red gums: Inflamed gum tissue is another sign of periodontal disease. If your gums appear swollen or red, consult a periodontist as soon as possible.
- Receding gums: Receding gums occur when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. As the gums regress, the roots of the teeth become exposed, which can lead to sensitivity and other problems.
- Loose teeth: Loose teeth can be a sign of advanced periodontal disease. As the disease progresses, the bone that supports the teeth can become damaged, causing the teeth to loosen.
- Chronic bad breath: Bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing or mouthwash can be a sign of periodontal disease. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can produce an unpleasant odor.
- Changes in bite: Changes in your bite can be a sign of periodontal disease. This happens when the bone that supports the teeth becomes damaged to the point of affecting their alignment.
If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, or are at an increased risk with a family history of the condition, it’s important to see a periodontist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the progression of gum disease and other dental problems.
At Caton J. State, DDS, Periodontics & Dental Implants, our team of periodontists is dedicated to helping our patients maintain healthy gums and teeth. If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontal disease or have a history of the disease, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our periodontists.
