According to the World Health Organization, periodontal disease affects almost 10% of the world’s population.
This oral disease builds up slowly over time, which can make it hard to notice unless you’re getting your regular check-ups. Luckily, a seasoned periodontist can help diagnose and treat the condition—before it gets out of hand and ruins your pearly whites!
But if you’ve never heard of this condition or type of specialist before, you may have a few questions. What is periodontal disease, anyway, and what does a periodontist do to help? We’ve got the answers you need, so read on to learn how to take better care of your oral health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease infects the tissues surrounding your teeth and keeping them in place.
In earlier stages, periodontal disease is known as “gingivitis.” This condition can happen if you have poor brushing and flossing habits that let sticky plaque build up on the surface of your teeth. Over time, this condition can make your gums red and swollen, and it can even cause bleeding.
“Periodontitis” is the more severe form of the disease. During this stage, your gums can start to pull away from your teeth, which can cause them to grow loose or even come free. You may also start to lose bone structure in your mouth.
What Is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist specializing in the field of gum care. As the name suggests, they’re adept at identifying periodontal disease, making them invaluable if you’re worried about your oral health!
Periodontists are so effective because of their extensive training. This includes three or more additional years of study after dental school to enhance their expertise.
What Does a Periodontist Do?
There are a few key ways that periodontist procedures can help protect your gum health:
- Preventative cleanings: A periodontist can do preventative cleanings for heavy tartar deposits
- Gum disease treatment: As you might guess, a periodontist dentist can perform specialized cleanings for those with gum disease, including scaling, root planing, and localized antibiotic treatment
- Gum graft surgery: For severe gum disease, periodontists can perform surgery to restore receded gum tissue
- Crown lengthening: This procedure removes excess gum tissue to allow the tooth’s natural structure to become more visible
- Plastic surgery: To fix uneven gum lines, a periodontist can perform special plastic surgery treatment
- Pocket reduction: This periodontist treatment folds back your gum tissue so that bacteria and plaque can be removed
- Laser treatment: Though this field is still being researched, some periodontists can perform therapy via a dental laser
If you’re curious about how periodontist treatments can help, check out this link to view more of their services.
Get the Periodontal Treatment You Need
When you’re stressed about the possibility of gingivitis and the more severe periodontitis, you don’t have to worry about it alone. Now that you can answer the question “What does a periodontist do?” you can reach out for the expert treatment you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a periodontist in your area for support! (cosmopolitanme.com)
If you’re looking for more of the insights you need for health and beyond, check out our other blog posts for more tips.
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