Periodontal disease affects millions worldwide, leading to tooth loss, discomfort, and systemic health complications. A periodontist specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease. Knowing when to seek expert care can significantly impact oral health and overall well-being.
Periodontal services offered by the dental practice in Pleasantville, NY aim to rejuvenate the health of your gums and underlying jawbone for complete oral rehabilitation.
Who is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease (gum disease) and other conditions affecting the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and bone. Periodontists are experts in the management of soft tissue and bone around teeth, and they receive extensive training beyond dental school in periodontics, implantology, and oral plastic surgery.
Periodontists work closely with general dentists and other dental specialists to provide comprehensive care, ensuring patients receive optimal treatment for maintaining healthy teeth, gums, and overall oral well-being. With their advanced expertise, periodontists play a crucial role in helping patients achieve a beautiful, functional, and healthy smile.
Why should you see a periodontist?
You may require a visit to the periodontist for the following purposes:
Prevent and Treat Gum Disease
- Diagnose and treat periodontitis (gum disease)
- Prevent further gum recession and bone loss
- Manage gingivitis and periodontal inflammation
Improve Oral Health
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
- Gum grafting for recession
- Bone grafting for implant placement
- Periodontal maintenance therapy
Enhance Smile Aesthetics
- Cosmetic gum contouring
- Gum lifting and recontouring
- Soft tissue grafting
Support Dental Restorations
- Implant placement and restoration
- Crown lengthening for restorative procedures
- Ridge modification for implant stability
Address Systemic Health Concerns
- The link between gum disease and heart disease
- Connection to diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and other systemic conditions
- Pregnancy and periodontal health
What are the signs when you need to see a Periodontist?
Here are signs you need to see a periodontist:
Gum-Related Symptoms
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Receding gums or exposed roots
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Loose teeth or shifting bite
Pain and Discomfort
- Painful chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Toothache or dental pain
- Difficulty swallowing
Visible Signs
- Visible plaque or tartar buildup
- Gingival recession (gum pulling away from teeth)
- Uneven gum line or asymmetrical smile
- Loose or missing teeth
Systemic Health Concerns
- Diabetes, heart disease, or other systemic conditions
- Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Family history of gum disease
Dental Restoration Needs
- Dental implant placement or restoration
- Crown lengthening for restorative procedures
- Ridge modification for implant stability
- Bone grafting or tissue regeneration
See a periodontist immediately for the following signs:
- Severe toothache or dental pain
- Swelling or abscess around teeth or gums
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after brushing or flossing
- Trauma to teeth or gums
What are the treatments offered by a periodontist?
Here are treatments offered by a periodontist:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Scaling and Root Planing (deep cleaning)
- Periodontal Maintenance Therapy (regular cleanings)
- Antibacterial Therapy (antibiotics)
- Laser Treatment (for gum disease)
- Occlusal Adjustment (bite adjustment)
Surgical Treatments
- Pocket Reduction Surgery (reduces pocket depth)
- Gum Grafting (for recession)
- Bone Grafting (for implant placement)
- Regenerative Procedures (tissue regeneration)
- Crown Lengthening (exposes more tooth structure)
Implant-Related Treatments
- Dental Implant Placement
- Implant Restoration
- Bone Grafting for Implant Stability
- Sinus Lift Procedure (for implant placement)
Cosmetic Procedures
- Gum Recontouring (aesthetic gum shaping)
- Soft Tissue Grafting (for recession)
- Gingival Contouring (gum reshaping)
- Smile Design
Regenerative Procedures
- Bone Regeneration (for implant placement)
- Tissue Regeneration (for gum growth)
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
- Stem Cell Therapy
Other Treatments
- Periodontal Plastic Surgery
- Oral Pathology Diagnosis and Treatment
- TMJ Disorder Treatment
- Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment
Don’t wait until it’s too late – recognize the signs and seek expert care from a periodontist. Protect your smile, overall health, and well-being by prioritizing periodontal health.