Periodontists Are Crucial to Your Oral Health
Every person has a unique smile. But the most appealing smiles have some common denominators: straight, white teeth and the proportionate amount of healthy pink gum tissue that shows them off in their best light. When it comes specifically to your gums, a periodontist is your go-to dental professional.
What does a Periodontist do?
A periodontist’s main focuses are the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the gums and the other elements that reinforce the base of teeth. They: recognize and treat the early stages of gum inflammation before it becomes more advanced; perform minor surgery to resolve complicated cases of periodontitis (severe gum disease); graft gums and employ cutting-edge lasers to reinstate the look of a smile; and, when a tooth is beyond saving, place dental implants in the jaw. To learn more about everything a periodontist can do, check out our article: What does a periodontist do?
What can I Expect From A Visit to My Periodontist?
During your first exam, your periodontist will check for receding gums, loose teeth, and any problems with the alignment of your jaw. He or she will scope out any possible periodontal pockets by using a small instrument that measures how deep the spaces between your teeth and gums are. The periodontist may also take X-rays to determine the well-being of the bones under your gum line. As with conventional plastic surgeons, periodontists can employ a variety of techniques to reshape soft tissue and, in some cases, reconfigure the jawbone.
What Else Does A Periodontist Do?
Periodontists are also involved in the maintenance of their patients’ gums. Keeping gums healthy and free of disease plays a crucial role in good oral health. And because gum disease is the top reason why adults lose teeth, it’s obvious that gums stay in good physical shape.
How do I Know If I Should See A Periodontist?
You should make an appointment to see a periodontist if you have noticed a recent change in your bite when talking, chewing, or brushing, your teeth feel a bit loose, or your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned in our article Should I see a periodontist? you’ll know.