Who is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases that affect the teeth' gums and other supporting structures. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Gum treatment often requires specialized care, and periodontists are experts in this field.
When Do You Need to See a Periodontist?
While your regular dentist is great for routine care and smaller dental problems, there are certain cases where you may need to see a periodontist for specialized care for gum tissue disease. The benefit of seeing a periodontist is that they can manage and keep periodontal disease under control.
6 Signs You Need to See a Periodontist
Bleeding Gums when Brushing or Flossing: A top sign of periodontal disease is bleeding gums. If your gums frequently bleed when you brush or floss, it's a good idea to see a periodontist.
Receding Gums: Another common sign of gum disease is receding gums. It occurs when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth root. If you notice your gums are receding, make an appointment with a periodontist.
Persistent Bad Breath: While everyone has occasional bad breath, if you have persistent bad breath that doesn't go away with brushing and flossing, it could be a sign of gum disease.
Loose Teeth: If you have loose teeth, it is a sign that you have periodontal disease, and it's important to see a periodontist immediately. It could signify advanced gum disease and require specialized treatment to save the tooth.
Changes in the Fit of Dentures or Partials: If you wear dentures or partials and notice a change in the fit, it could be due to gum recession. It is another reason to see a periodontist, as they can adjust the fit of your dentures or partials.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Temperatures: If you have sensitive teeth that are painful when exposed to hot or cold temperatures, it could be a sign of gum disease.
If you have any of the above signs, it's time to see a periodontist. A periodontist can assess your case and develop a treatment plan to address your specific needs. Don't wait to see a periodontist – the sooner you seek treatment, the better the outcome will be.
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