What Is A Periodontist? What Do They Do?

Do you know what a periodontist is? What do they do? Why would you see a periodontist? What is periodontics? Should you be concerned if you’re referred to a periodontist? If you need a periodontist in Utah, we have offices in Salt Lake City and South Jordan and offer competitive pricing!

What is a periodontist? 

A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the gums, bones, and tissues supporting the teeth. A general family dentist focuses on preventative and restorative treatments such as teeth cleanings, filling cavities, and dental crowns. In the U.S., a general dentist must graduate from a four-year dental school before receiving his/her license to practice. A periodontist, however, must receive three additional years of training before earning his/her license to practice periodontics in the U.S.

What is periodontics? 

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions that affect the gums, the supporting bone, and other tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Periodontics also addresses issues like gum disease, gum recession, and the management of dental implants. Periodontics also involves surgical procedures, such as bone grafts and gum grafts.

What does a periodontist do?

Here are some of the key services and procedures a periodontist provides:

• Treating Gum Disease:

Periodontists diagnose and treat various stages of gum disease, from gingivitis (early stage) to periodontitis (advanced stage), which can both lead to tooth loss if untreated.

• Scaling and Root Planing: 

This non-surgical deep cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and beneath the gum line (scaling) and smoothing the roots of teeth (planing) to help the gums reattach to the teeth. These procedures help to treat early to moderate gum disease.

• Gum Grafting:

In cases of gum recession (when gums pull away from teeth), gum grafts can be taken from the roof of the mouth or from a donor source to cover exposed tooth roots. This helps to protect the tooth roots, reduce sensitivity,and restore a more aesthetically pleasing gum line.

• Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery):

If deep pockets between the teeth and gums do not improve with scaling and root planing, a surgeon may perform flap surgery. The gums are lifted back to remove tartar, and the pockets are reduced. This helps reduce the depth of periodontal pockets and promotes better oral hygiene.

• Dental Implants: 

Periodontists are highly trained in placing dental implants and ensuring the health of the bone and tissues surrounding the implant.

• Bone Grafting:

In cases of bone loss, a periodontist may perform bone grafting to restore the jawbone and make it suitable for implants or to support existing teeth. Its purpose is to stimulate bone growth and to restore the foundation for teeth, especially around the roots.

• Guided Tissue Generation: 

This procedure involves placing a special membrane between the gum and bone to guide the regrowth of lost bone and tissue. It helps to regenerate tissue and bone that were lost due to severe periodontal disease.

• Crown Lengthening: 

A surgical procedure that removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure, often in preparation for restorative work (like crowns and bridges). 

• Soft Tissue Grafting:

Similar to gum grafting, this procedure uses soft tissue from another area of the mouth or a donor source to cover exposed tooth roots or to improve the appearance of the gum line. It helps to prevent further gum recession.

• Periodontal Maintenance:

Regular cleanings and check-ups after initial periodontal treatment to maintain the health of the gums and prevent recurrence of disease. This Is typically performed every 3-4 months.

Why would you see a periodontist?

If your general dentist refers you to a periodontist, it’s simply because the periodontist has the special skills, knowledge, and experience to provide you with the type of periodontal treatment or implant procedure you need.

Seeing a periodontist for dental implants

Seeing a periodontist for dental implants is quite common and often recommended since periodontists specialize in the health of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth, both of which are crucial for the success of dental implants. 

Should you be concerned if you’re referred to a periodontist?

It’s natural to feel concerned when your dentist refers you to a periodontist, but it’s important to understand that these referrals are usually made in order to ensure the best care for your specific oral health needs. Here’s what you should know:

Reasons For Referral:

• Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis): If your dentist sees signs of gum disease that may require more specialized treatment (like deep cleaning, surgery, or grafting), they might refer you to a periodontist.

• Gum Recession: If you have noticeable gum recession or gum loss around your teeth, a periodontist can assess and potentially treat the issue with procedures like gum grafting.  

• Tooth Mobility or Bone Loss: If your teeth are loose or there’s significant bone loss around your teeth, a periodontist can help regenerate bone or stabilize your teeth with surgical interventions.

• Implant Considerations: If you’re considering dental implants or need implants placed, periodontists are experts in this area.
• Complex Conditions: If you have a complicated case of gum disease or other periodontal issues that might require surgery or advanced treatments, a periodontist is the right person to see since he/she specializes in these surgeries and treatments.

While being referred to a specialist can feel intimidating, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is very serious. In fact, it can be a positive step toward getting the targeted care you need. Dentists routinely refer patients to periodontists for conditions that go beyond what a general dentist typically handles, and periodontists are specifically trained to address complex gum and bone issues. Rather than worrying, think of the referral as a way to receive expert care. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for more details about why they think a periodontist is necessary for your case. Often, addressing gum health early can prevent more complex issues later.

If you have questions about your gum health or are in need of any periodontic services, give us a call at Centers for Periodontal and Implant Therapy to request your appointment today. Our doctors are experienced Utah periodontal specialists who specialize in a variety of services including dental implants, crown lengthening, gum grafting, bone grafting, and more. Whether you live in Bountiful, Sandy, West Valley, or Herriman, we have offices conveniently located near you. Click the button below to schedule an appointment!