Periodontics is a sector of dentistry that focuses on the gums and other supporting structures in the mouth. While general dentists are equipped to treat and diagnose minor cases of gum disease, more severe or complex cases need to be addressed by a periodontist specializing in periodontics in NW Calgary. In this blog post, our team at Spy Hill Dental tells you everything you need to know about periodontists and the type of procedures they perform.
What is the Role of a Periodontist?
As mentioned above, a periodontist is a specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum disease. Specialists in periodontics near you receive an additional three years of training and education beyond their dentistry degree.
When Might One Need to See a Periodontist?
The field of periodontics addresses a wide range of dental issues and offers many treatment options. As we all know, brushing and flossing our teeth daily and regularly visiting a dental office in NW Calgary for professional dental hygiene and examination is the best way to maintain excellent oral health. However, it only takes a small amount of unaddressed tartar or plaque to cause periodontal disease. While a general dentist can treat mild gum disease, they will refer you to a periodontist if your gum disease is severe. Still, all periodontists work to restore diseased gum tissue to good health and improve the function and appearance of your smile.
How Do Periodontists Treat Gum Disease?
Treatment for patients with milder forms of gum disease starts with more conservative procedures such as deep cleanings. During pocket reduction surgery, your periodontist will remove the infected portion of your gums, allowing the healthy gum tissue to regenerate and attach to the teeth. However, minor gum pocket surgery may be necessary if periodontal disease has developed further.
If you have more advanced periodontal disease, you may be in danger of dealing with eroded bone and gum tissue in your mouth. In these cases, your dental specialist may need to perform more aggressive procedures that work to regenerate healthy gum tissue and jaw bone tissue. It can be accomplished through gum grafts and bone grafts.
Sometimes, patients who visit our dental office near you look for cosmetic treatments involving their gums. A periodontist can also help with these and perform dental implant surgery to replace missing teeth and crown lengthening surgery to create a more even smile.
Regardless of your need, a periodontist can help you find a solution if it concerns your gum health.
Interested in Periodontics Near You?
If you have gum disease or suspect it, it is very important to address it as soon as possible. When caught early, gum disease can be completely reversed, but it can cause serious oral and overall health problems if left to progress. If your dentist has referred you to a periodontist or wants to learn more about periodontics, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated dental professionals at Spy Hill Dental. We are happy to provide the treatments you need to maintain optimal oral health for years.
