Gum disease can be serious — it can destroy gums and supporting tissues and even cause tooth loss. As gum disease is such a widespread problem, there are dentists that specialize in periodontics Mississauga. These periodontists receive an extra three years of dental training.
What Does a Periodontist Treat?
Periodontists treat gum disease through scaling and root planing (to clean infected roots) and root surface debridement (to remove damaged tissue). They also carry out regenerative procedures to recover bone and tissue.
As well as treating periodontal disease, periodontists specialize in prevention and diagnosis of both gingivitis and periodontitis, treating oral inflammation, and placement, repair, and maintenance of dental implants and other cosmetic restorations for periodontitis.
When Is It Necessary to See a Periodontist?
Your general dentist can manage your gum disease if it is mild. However, only a periodontist can treat more complex cases, such as if you need surgery or have a complex medical history. They have a better understanding of how the disease impacts other areas of the body and how gum disease is linked to aging. Often, a periodontist will work with a general dentist for optimal understanding of a patient’s case.
What Happens at a Visit to a Periodontist?
Your visit will begin with a review of your dental and medical history. The periodontist needs to know what medications you are currently taking and if you have any condition that could impact treatment, such as a heart problem, diabetes, or pregnancy.
The next stage is the examination. The periodontist will look at gum recession by placing a probe between your gums and teeth to measure periodontal pockets. He or she will also look for loose teeth, check your bite and the overall condition of your gums, and may take X-rays to examine the bone and teeth below the gum line.
