What Is a Periodontist and How to Know If You Need One?

A periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in treating disorders of the gum tissue. Gum disease affects about 30% of adults. When gum disease is present, it wreaks havoc on the health of the smile. Individuals can experience a range of symptoms and need to be aware of what to expect so they will know when to seek treatment from a specialist.

What Is a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a specialist who diagnoses, treats, and offers preventative care for gum disease. These dentists go through extensive training to be able to offer a range of treatment options. One of the premiere treatments for periodontal disease is planing and scaling which involves removing plaque and tartar that becomes trapped under the gumline. This procedure is often accompanied by suturing to prevent tooth loosening from continuing.

How to Know If You Need a Periodontist

Being able to recognize the signs of periodontal disease is critical. Should a person experience any of the following, they need to schedule an appointment with a dental specialist immediately. Waiting too long to seek treatment will only lead to increased progression and eventual tooth loosening and loss.

• One of the first symptoms people often notice when they have gum disease is bleeding. Because the gum tissue becomes so swollen and inflamed, it will bleed when brushing and flossing. These are not normal signs and should not be overlooked.
• Individuals will also notice their gum tissue becomes red and swollen. Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that progresses. If the gum tissue is turning red, individuals need to get to a dental specialist right away.
• Bad breath is also a common sign of gum disease. As infection sets in, foul odors can develop. If a person’s bad breath does not respond to good oral hygiene practices, it is time to check for gum disease.
• Gum disease will also cause tooth loosening if it is not treated promptly. As the gum disease progresses, pockets of infection develop that cause the teeth to loosen and begin to shift. Eventually, people will begin to lose their teeth.

How to Find the Right Periodontist

Finding the right dental specialist is critical when individuals have symptoms like those above. The following tips should make finding a dental specialist easier for those who need immediate treatment.

• Asking their dentist for a referral is a solid first step.
• Read patient reviews and research the services offered by the dental professional.
• Visit the office and ask to meet the dentist and staff members. Schedule a tour of the office.
• Make sure the dentist accepts your insurance.

Schedule an Appointment Right Away

Time is of the essence when it comes to treating periodontal disease. Waiting too long can lead to serious negative outcomes, including tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is more easily treated when found in its earliest stages. As the disease progresses, treatments involve scaling and planing and surgical interventions.

If you have noticed any of the signs of gum disease, it is time to take action right away. Schedule an appointment now to get started.