A periodontist is a specially trained dentist who focuses on the gums. If you’re struggling with bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or have been diagnosed with advanced gum disease, a periodontist can provide specialized treatments that go beyond a regular cleaning.
These experts complete 3+ years of training beyond dental school, mastering technical procedures like gum grafting, bone regeneration, and periodontal surgery. Their purpose is to heal inflamed gums and save deteriorating teeth that generalists may not be able to treat.
While mainly treating gum issues, periodontists also place dental implants, perform laser gum therapies, and address cosmetic concerns. My last visit was for a deep cleaning, and my gum health is now better than it’s been in years thanks to my periodontist’s expertise.
Education and training of periodontists
Periodontists complete 4 years of regular dental school, then take on an intense 3-year residency focusing entirely on treating advanced gum disease. Their specialized training covers complex procedures like gum grafting, bone regeneration, soft tissue laser treatments, and full-mouth reconstruction for severe cases.
In order to become licensed specialists, periodontists must also pass rigorous board exams. And through continuing education, they stay updated on the latest tech and science in their field – like high-magnification microscopes for finding root issues. This level of commitment is unique.
What services do periodontists provide?
Beyond deep cleanings and surgery for gum inflammation, periodontists also offer:
- Gum grafting for recession
- Precision implant placement
- Supporting bone grafts
- Cosmetic procedures like crown lengthening for uneven gums
- Cutting-edge laser gum therapy
They possess the whole array of tools, technology and knowledge to transform even severely compromised smiles.
How periodontists can help with dental implants
The key to implant success lies in the density and volume of jawbone and gums. Periodontists are specialists in assessing unique anatomy and tissue health needs – grafting bone or gums way in advance if necessary. This makes the implantation process smoother and helps long-term stability dramatically.
Seeing a periodontist from the start prevents issues down the road like bone loss near implants. Their expertise gives patients the best chance possible for completely integrated, lasting tooth replacements.
Cosmetic periodontics treatments
Ever admire celebrity smiles that seem so perfectly uniform and bright? Turns out periodontists help create those cover-worthy makeovers! One of their cosmetic superpowers is transforming “gummy” smiles. If too much upper gum and not enough pearly whites show when you grin, periodontists can work some magic. Using precise lasers and scalpels, they carefully trim excess gum tissue and reveal more of that natural tooth enamel dazzle underneath.
Periodontists’ role in gum disease prevention
Even with good oral hygiene, gum disease can sneak in over time and seriously damage tissues and bone structure. Thankfully, periodontists specialize in both treatment and prevention. Through professional cleanings and early intervention, they stop mild cases from becoming severe. And they coach patients like me on home care – flossing properly, using antibacterial rinses, coming back consistently to maintain gum health. An ounce of prevention really does beat needing pounds of restorative dentistry down the line! So, if you’re worried about gum disease risks, schedule an exam with your trusted periodontist.
