Have you ever noticed bleeding gums while brushing, persistent bad breath, or teeth that seem to be shifting? These could be early warning signs of periodontal disease, a serious infection that can damage the soft tissues and bone supporting your teeth. This is where a periodontist, a dental specialist focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, comes in.

Think of a periodontist as a highly skilled architect and builder for the foundation of your smile – your gums and supporting bone. After completing dental school, a periodontist undergoes an additional two to three years of specialized training in this complex area of dentistry. This advanced education equips them with in-depth knowledge of the intricate relationship between your gums, teeth, and jawbone.

Why See a Periodontist?

While your general dentist plays a crucial role in your overall oral health, there are specific situations where the expertise of a periodontist is invaluable. Here are some key reasons why you might be referred to or choose to see a periodontist:

• Diagnosis and Treatment of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease): This is the primary focus of periodontists. They are experts in all stages of gum disease, from gingivitis (early inflammation) to advanced periodontitis (significant tissue and bone loss). They can accurately diagnose the extent of the disease and develop tailored treatment plans to halt its progression and restore the health of your gums.

• Non-Surgical Treatments: Periodontists utilize a range of non-surgical therapies to manage gum disease. These include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line), antibiotic treatments (to combat infection), and guidance on improving oral hygiene practices.

• Surgical Treatments: When non-surgical approaches are insufficient, periodontists are skilled in various surgical procedures to regenerate lost bone and tissue, reduce deep pockets around teeth, and improve the overall health and aesthetics of your gums. These procedures can include:

  • Flap surgery: Lifting the gums to access and clean the tooth roots more effectively.

  • Bone grafting: Replacing lost bone to stabilize teeth and prepare for dental implants.

  • Guided tissue regeneration (GTR): Using barrier membranes to encourage the regrowth of bone and gum tissue.

  • Soft tissue grafts: Covering exposed tooth roots to reduce sensitivity and improve aesthetics.

• Dental Implants: Periodontists are highly qualified to place dental implants, artificial tooth roots that provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Their expertise in bone health and gum tissue management ensures optimal implant placement and long-term success.

• Cosmetic Periodontal Procedures: Periodontists can also perform procedures to enhance the appearance of your gums, such as correcting gummy smiles (excessive gum tissue display) or addressing uneven gum lines.

• Management of Complex Dental Cases: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, may be more susceptible to periodontal disease. Periodontists are trained to manage the oral health needs of these patients in collaboration with their physicians.

The Importance of Healthy Gums

Healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth and a confident smile. Beyond aesthetics, your gums play a vital role in:

• Supporting your teeth: They act as a protective seal around your teeth, holding them firmly in place.

• Protecting the underlying bone: Healthy gums prevent bacteria from reaching and damaging the jawbone.

• Contributing to overall health: Research suggests a link between periodontal disease and other systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory 1 problems.  

Ignoring the signs of gum disease can lead to serious consequences, including tooth loss, bone damage, and potential impacts on your overall well-being.

Taking the Next Step

If you are experiencing any signs of gum disease or are interested in learning more about maintaining optimal periodontal health, consulting with a periodontist is a wise decision. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

For expert periodontist services, consider visiting Dr. Rosas Dental Clinic, with convenient branches located at:

• BAMC, Taculing, Bacolod City

• Sum-ag, Bacolod City

• Jaro, Iloilo City

Their dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing comprehensive periodontal care to help you achieve optimal oral health.