What Does A Periodontist Do?

Many people are familiar with dentists and how they take care of your oral health. However, not as many people are aware of the various types of specialties in dentistry – Periodontics being one of them. While a general dentist is trained to treat a multitude of dental problems, dental specialists focus only on a specific area of specialization related to dentistry. 

So, what does a periodontist do, and how does this specialty improve your oral health and well-being?

Continue reading to find out!

What is a Periodontist?

A periodontist is a specialist dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of problems related to the gums and the structures that are present around the tooth roots. 

So, is a periodontist also a dentist? Yes. A periodontist is a dentist who has undergone three or more years of specialized clinical training to become certified dental specialists. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, Periodontists are not only trained in managing different types of gum and periodontal disease, but they also specialize in performing different cosmetic periodontal procedures. 

What Does a Periodontist Do?

Management of Periodontal Problems 

Periodontists specialize in treating different types of gum problems. For mild to moderate gum disease, periodontists normally use non-invasive procedures such as teeth cleaning and oral hygiene instructions. During teeth cleaning, a dentist or periodontal specialist will use an ultrasonic scaler that vibrates at very high frequency and removes plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth and below the gumline. 

In the case when the gum disease has progressed further and created “pockets” between the tooth and gums, a periodontist will perform a pocket reduction procedure. This procedure involves raising a surgical flap to remove the plaque and tartar deposits and re-attach the gums back to their original position. 

In advanced stages, when the bone tissues get destroyed and the teeth become mobile, your periodontist will use various regenerative procedures to regrow the bone and gum tissue around the tooth.  

Cosmetic Periodontal Procedures 

Periodontists also perform cosmetic procedures to improve smiles and facial aesthetics. One of the most commonly performed procedures is gum-recontouring – a procedure in which the dentist or periodontal specialist reshapes to gum to restore improve your appearance and smile. Crown lengthening is another procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue that caused the tooth crowns to appear shorter. Periodontists also specialize in replacing missing teeth with dental implants. 

Periodontists employ different techniques and procedures to treat gum problems. The ultimate goal of treatment, however, remains the same; to improve your oral health and to give a lasting and beautiful smile. If you are experiencing swelling, pain, or bleeding around your gums, then you must visit a periodontist immediately. Delaying your treatment can result in various complications and may even cause tooth loss. The earlier you seek treatment, the higher are the chances of complete recovery.