Periodontics is a specialty field of dentistry. Is There A Difference Between A Dentist And A Periodontist?
Let’s find out.
Many people wonder what a Periodontist does. If you ever have asked yourself that question, you’re not alone. Dentists diagnose and treat many common and general oral health issues. Periodontists are dentists too, but with exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of gum disease, many are also trained in placing dental implants, and they do a lot more than that. They diagnose, treat, and prevent periodontal disease.
If a dentist wants to become a Periodontist, they must study for three extra years after completing standard dental school. That additional training and education provide the unique expertise and qualify the Periodontist to perform cosmetic and restorative periodontal treatments. In essence, Periodontists are dentists with a very particular knowledge in all matters concerning the health of your gums, soft tissues, and bone that support your teeth.
The work of a Periodontist often involves cleaning an infected area of the root of a tooth. Sometimes a Periodontist must also remove damaged tissue from the root’s surface.
Gum or jaw disease is a serious condition. The consequences, when left untreated, are severe. You could lose one or several teeth; in extreme cases, gum or jaw disease could mean removing a part of your jawline. If you suffer from gum disease and if the disease is already in an advanced stage, then that is truly worrisome. They could be early warning signs of cancer.
You should seek advice immediately if you have some of the signs described below.
1. Periodontics also deals with a change in your bite.
We advise seeing a periodontist if your teeth feel different during chewing, talking, or brushing. If your bite changes, it could point toward specific issues that can cause long-term problems without proper treatment.
2. Are you suffering from red, swollen, and bleeding gums?
That is one of the most telling signs that something is wrong. Pay close attention to see if your gums bleed when brushing or flossing. If they do, ask for advice from a periodontist. That is the best way to deal with relatively minor issues before they develop into larger, more expensive, and more painful problems.
3. Periodontics deals with teeth that feel loose.
Teeth no longer firmly embedded into your bone can point to thinning bone and severe infections, such as periodontitis. Have you noticed that your teeth are starting to feel a little loose? If the answer is yes, you should visit a periodontist as soon as possible because it might be the onset of severe gum disease and underlying bone damage.
4. Are your gums receding?
The older we get, the more our gums recede. It’s normal but is a process that shouldn’t be very noticeable. Do you think your teeth look longer when you check using a mirror? If true, it could be possible that your gums are in a state of advanced recession caused by periodontal disease. You should book an appointment with our Periodontist today to find out if there is anything to worry about.
5. Do you have pain and feel discomfort?
In most cases, pain can be pinpointed to a specific tooth. If you feel discomfort near o below your gums, this could be a sign of a severe issue. Time is of the essence, and you must see a periodontist to check it out. Schedule an examination with us to uncover the reason for the problem, so you can get it treated before things go from bad to worse.
