A periodontist is a dental professional specializing in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. These structures include the gums, bone, and ligaments that hold teeth in place.
Defining the Periodontist’s Role
Periodontists possess highly specialized knowledge and skills that differentiate them from general dentists. Their practice centers exclusively on the health of the periodontium, which encompasses the gingiva (gums), periodontal ligament, cementum (a layer covering tooth roots), and the alveolar bone that contains tooth sockets.
Becoming a periodontist involves significant additional training beyond the four years of dental school. After earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, they complete an additional three years of specialized education in an accredited residency program. This extensive post-doctoral training equips them with advanced expertise in both surgical and non-surgical periodontal procedures.
Common Conditions and Treatments
Periodontists primarily address common conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis, both forms of gum disease. Gingivitis represents the earliest stage, characterized by inflamed, red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums, often due to plaque and tartar buildup. If left unaddressed, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced infection where inflammation spreads to the bone supporting the teeth. This progression can lead to the destruction of gum tissue and underlying jawbone, potentially resulting in tooth loosening or loss.
Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical methods are often the initial step, with scaling and root planing being a primary procedure. This deep cleaning removes plaque and hardened tartar from tooth surfaces both above and below the gumline, and then smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach to the teeth. In some cases, local antibiotics may be applied or prescribed to help control bacterial infection.
When non-surgical treatments are insufficient, periodontists perform various surgical procedures. Gum grafting is a common technique used to treat gum recession, where tissue is taken from another area of the mouth, such as the palate, and placed over exposed tooth roots to cover them and prevent further damage. Bone regeneration procedures aim to rebuild bone and supporting tissues lost due to periodontal disease. This can involve placing bone graft materials or membranes to encourage the natural growth of new bone. Periodontists also specialize in the surgical placement of dental implants, which serve as artificial tooth roots to support replacement teeth.
When to Seek Periodontal Care
Bleeding gums, particularly when brushing or flossing, can indicate an early stage of gum disease. Persistent bad breath that does not improve with regular oral hygiene may also signal a deeper issue, as periodontal infections can produce unpleasant odors.
Other indicators that may prompt a visit to a periodontist include receding gums, which make teeth appear longer and can lead to sensitivity, or the sensation of loose teeth. These symptoms often suggest that the infection has progressed to affect the bone supporting the teeth. While general dentists can manage mild cases of gum disease, they often refer patients to a periodontist for more advanced or complex conditions, or when specialized procedures like dental implants are considered.