What is the Difference Between a Dentist and Periodontist?

If you’re wondering what a periodontist does, you’re not alone. While traditional dentists are able to diagnose and treat a wide range of oral health issues; periodontists specialize in the placement of dental implants and the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease.

To become a periodontist, dentists must attain three extra years of education beyond standard dental school. This gives them expertise in performing cosmetic and restorative periodontal procedures that prioritize both aesthetics and function. 

In addition to being gum specialists, periodontists are able to offer a broad array of treatments, including scaling and root planing, during which they clean the infected surface of a tooth’s root. They also perform root surface debridement, where they remove damaged tissue. 

Periodontist Balwyn

Periodontists must anticipate future gum and tooth issues, treat current ones, and repair prior ones. The job of a periodontist is to protect all the support structures of your teeth. These professionals train to make sure that your gums, jawbone, and connective gum tissue are operating at optimal capacity. When a periodontist notices a problem with any of these elements, the need for action is immediate.

When left untreated, gum damage can cause you to lose a tooth or, in extreme situations, suffer a gum or jaw disease that could require the removal of a part of your jawline. That’s why periodontists have a reputation as the plastic surgeons of dentistry. These professionals often work to correct soft tissue issues in your mouth before they become a larger problem. Prevention is a key part of this job, but surgery is also needed in many instances.

The worst cases of periodontitis require this surgery. The advanced stages of gum disease are worrisome. They are sometimes early warning signs of cancer, especially in adult males. A periodontist protects a person’s well-being by diagnosing and treating these early issues. The dentist will also test for cancerous cells. Should the patient lose one or more teeth, the periodontist will also suggest a course of action to hide the situation. Replacement implants are usually the best option, and this process is generally quick and painless.

In some instances, traditional dentists can treat minor gum issues; however, they will usually refer patients to periodontists for more severe problems.

Periodontist Deepdene

When to See a Periodontist

According to the Australian Government Department of Health, moderate or severe periodontitis (gum disease) is present in 22.9 per cent of the Australian population. Periodontitis is strongly linked to age, with older generations having a much higher prevalence of periodontitis than younger people.  In some instances, a family dentist can effectively treat early symptoms of gum disease and other related oral issues, as long as the problem hasn’t advanced past a certain point. If you’re not sure whether your oral health issue is serious enough to require treatment from a periodontist, look for the following 5 signs:

1. You have noticed a change in your bite.

If your teeth feel different while chewing, talking or brushing, you should see a periodontist. Different bite patterns can point toward specific issues that can cause long-term problems without proper treatment. Our periodontist in Balwyn can determine the reasons for these changes and suggest appropriate treatment options that can help solve the problem.

Periodontist Mont Albert

 

2. You have red, swollen or bleeding gums.

This is one of the most obvious signs that you should see a periodontist. Watch closely to see if your gums bleed when you floss or brush. If they do, seek input from a qualified periodontist, so you can address relatively minor issues before they evolve into expensive and painful problems.

3. Your teeth feel loose.

Loose teeth can be a sign of thinning bone and serious infections, such as periodontitis. If you have noticed that your teeth have begun to feel a little loose, you should definitely visit a periodontist. Even if you think it is just your imagination, it’s a good idea to schedule an examination, since this could be a very early sign of serious gum disease and underlying bone damage.

Periodontist Camberwell

 

4. Your gums are receding.

Although our gums naturally recede as we age, it shouldn’t be very noticeable. If you think your teeth look longer when you look in the mirror, this could be a sign of advanced gum recession resulting from periodontal disease. Book an appointment with our periodontist near Surrey Hills today to find out for sure.

 

5. You have pain and discomfort.

Oral pain can usually be traced to a specific tooth. If you notice discomfort within, around or underneath your gums, however, this could be a sign of a serious issue. Schedule a comprehensive examination with us to uncover the root of the problem, so you can get it treated in time. Your general dentist can recommend the best next steps and whether or not you should visit a periodontist.

 

Periodontist Hawthorn

 

How Does a Periodontist Appointment Work?

The start of your first periodontist appointment is just like any other dental visit. You’ll check in at the front desk and then wait for your turn. When you get called back to the exam room, the dentist will review your medical charts. You should alert your caregiver if you have any allergies to medicines. You should also inform the periodontist if you have heart problems, diabetes, or any other condition like pregnancy that could impact treatment options.

Periodontist Kew

 

You may need to get x-rays during your appointment. The periodontist wants to have the most current medical information before making any decisions. The dentist will check the records and x-rays and then do a routine check of your mouth, jaw and gums. Afterward, you’ll receive an update the state of your mouth. The periodontist will tell you if you need any procedures done. If not, the periodontist will suggest some dental practices you should do daily to improve your situation.

A periodontist is one of the most important kinds of dentists. You may never need to visit one, but if you do, you’ll know that this person has the specialized training needed to treat your gums and mouth.

If you feel that you may need to consult with our Periodontist please call Tower Dental on 03 9817 7144.