Periodontics
Periodontists are specially trained to provide treatments that deal with gum tissue and supporting structures.
These specialists can perform surgical gum treatments, place dental implants, and correct cosmetic concerns like a gummy smile.
When do I need to see a periodontist?
- Bad Breath (Halitosis)
- Bone Loss in Jaw
- Exposed Roots
- Gingivitis
- Gummy Smile
- Gum Recession
- Impacted Teeth
- Infected Gum Pockets
- Long Teeth
- Loose Tooth
- Missing Teeth
- Peri-implantitis
- Periodontal Abscess
- Periodontitis
- Swollen and Bleeding Gums
Speciality Training Makes Periodontists the Authorities on Gum Health
Comprehensive Gum Care
While a general dentist typically refers you to a specialist if you have advanced gum disease or a problematic medical history, a periodontist can address most cases in-house. Periodontists can perform both cosmetic procedures such as gum lifts as well as restorative procedures, including gum flap surgery and bone grafting.
Advanced Technology
In addition to standard equipment such as probes, periodontists often use advanced imaging technology and state-of-the-art treatment equipment such as dental lasers to make procedures more comfortable.
Surgical Capabilities
Periodontists can perform various types of gum surgery to treat both cosmetic and health-related issues. For patients who lose a tooth as a result of gum disease, a periodontist can also replace missing teeth with dental implants.
- Bone Graft
- Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique
- Crown Lengthening
- Dental Implants
- Gingivectomy
- Gum Flap Surgery
- Gum Graft Surgery
- Gum Lift / Cosmetic Gum Contouring
- Gum Tissue Regeneration
- LANAP Treatment
- Laser Gum Treatment
- Periodontal Surgery
- Piezosurgery
- Pocket Reduction
- Ridge Augmentation
- Root Surface Debridement
- Scaling and Root Planing
- Socket Preservation
- Sinus Lift
- Tooth Extraction
Advanced Technology Can Make Treatment Less Invasive and More Comfortable
Many periodontists pair careful technique with state-of-the-art technology to provide advanced procedures for patients. Some notable procedures include:
- Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation
- LANAP Laser Treatment
- Laser Dentistry
- Piezosurgery
These procedures are designed with patient comfort in mind and typically require few or no incisions compared to traditional gingival treatment methods. In many cases, this use of technology can expedite your treatment time and speed up your recovery period following a periodontal procedure.
"Patients who present with moderate or severe levels of periodontal disease, or patients with more complex cases, will be best managed by a partnership between the dentist and periodontist." - American Academy of Periodontology
Patients Don't Typically Begin Periodontal Treatment with a Periodontist
If you've never heard of a periodontist, that's probably because your dentist has never had to refer you to one.
Some general dentists can perform scaling and root planing to treat early gum disease on their own, but most will refer you to a periodontist for more advanced issues. Periodontists are specialists who focus on complex cases which your regular dentist usually does not have the resources or training to address.
Visit a Periodontist If Your Gums Need Expert Care
If you have advanced gum disease, missing teeth, or are unhappy with the look of your gums, trust your results to a specialist with advanced training. You do not need to be referred to a periodontist. Schedule an appointment with one today.
