When a Periodontist Is the Specialist to Visit

Seeing a periodontist is a good idea when you are suffering from symptoms of gum disease. These specialists provide extensive treatment options for varying conditions, including gingivitis and periodontal disease. Often, individuals are referred to these specialists when their primary dentist cannot provide enough effective treatment through standard cleaning and repairs. Because of their ability to offer more invasive and even surgical treatments, these professionals can help to restore strength to the soft tissues in the mouth.

Know the Symptoms

Anybody with unhealthy gums should seek help from a periodontist. This includes symptoms such as red, swollen gums that hurt and bleeding while brushing. In addition, the gums may begin to recede, or pull away from the teeth. Since gums help to hold teeth in place, when this occurs, it allows teeth to weaken and become loose.

Additional symptoms include sores in the mouth and persistent bad breath. Sores on the exterior of the mouth may be a type of virus and are not related to gum disease. Bad breath that does not go away with brushing or returns quickly after doing so is an indication of a large amount of progressive bacteria present in the mouth. This bacterium builds the plaque surrounding the teeth and leads to significant damage to the gums, teeth and even to the bones of the jaw.

Those who have loose teeth or teeth that are separating from each other should also seek out this type of specialized help. If you notice that your dentures do not fit well any more or you notice that the teeth do not align when you close your mouth when they once did, this is also an indication treatment may be required.

Services Offered

A periodontist provides a range of services. A deep cleaning technique may be used to clean the root area of the teeth. In addition, you may need surgical procedures to help replace some of the bone loss in extensive and severe forms of this disease. In addition to helping you overcome the current level of gum disease, these specialists can also help you to prevent further issues. It is best to see this professional as soon as you suspect you have moderate to extensive gum disease.

A regular dentist may not be enough. That is when it is a good idea to turn to a periodontist for additional help and guidance in overcoming this health concern. Keep in mind the importance of doing so. Not only could you lose your teeth, but gum disease has been linked to heart disease and an increased risk of strokes in some individuals. Avoid this with treatment.