What Type of Procedures Does a Periodontist Perform?
Posted on 3/1/2024 by Weo Admin
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease. Also called periodontal disease or gingivitis, this refers to infections affecting the gums and bones that surround and support your teeth. If untreated, gum disease can lead to issues like painful chewing, persistent bad breath, and eventual tooth loss. Periodontists have extra training to provide both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.
Deep Cleanings for Gum Disease
The most common procedure a periodontist performs is deep cleaning for gum disease, often called scaling and root planing. First, they numb your gums so you remain comfortable. Next, they use special tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar above and especially below the gumline. This gets rid of bacteria and allows the gums to heal. The deep cleaning may take place over multiple visits, depending on severity. Expect to return for follow-up appointments every three months after deep cleaning to ensure proper healing.
Flap Surgery
If nonsurgical treatment fails to curb infection, periodontists can provide periodontal surgery. One option is flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back, allowing periodontists to remove infected tartar and bacteria more easily. Gums are then sutured back in place to fit tightly around each tooth.
Tissue Grafts
Another surgical procedure performed is tissue grafts, where healthy gum tissue is taken from elsewhere in your mouth and grafted into areas where gum recession has occurred. This protects vulnerable roots from further exposure.
Bone Grafting
Periodontists also perform bone grafting by placing bone or bone-like matter where erosion has happened to stimulate regrowth. Common materials used include synthetic bone, donated bone, or proteins that nurture bone cells.
Dental Implants
Finally, periodontists can place dental implants, which are titanium posts surgically embedded into the jawbone that act as replacement tooth roots. Restorations like crowns or dentures are later attached to provide functional, durable replacement teeth.
Caring For Your Mouth After Treatment
Proper at-home oral hygiene is vital before and after periodontal procedures. Always follow the recommendations of your periodontist, like using antibacterial rinses or carefully brushing and flossing affected areas. Though scheduled visits may increase treatment costs, they ensure lasting results from both nonsurgical and surgical interventions. Reach out with any questions about procedures a periodontist can provide for gum disease.
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A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease. Also called periodontal disease or gingivitis, this refers to infections affecting the gums and bones that surround and support your teeth. If untreated, gum disease can lead to issues like painful chewing, persistent bad breath, and eventual tooth loss. Periodontists have extra training to provide both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.