A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants.

 

Patients exhibiting lesions, pocketing, frequent bleeding, excessive gum tissue, or find that thir gums are receding need to see a periodontist. Periodontists receive extensive training in all of these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosoing and treating periodontal disease. In addition they can preform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire. Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when their periodontal disease is advanced. However, you dont need a referal to see a periodontist. In fact, there are occasions when you may choose to go directly to a periodontist or to rever a family member or friend to your own periodontist.

Anyone who has a  problem with their gums should see a specialist, and not just any specialist a periodontist!

 

Your bone and gum tissue should fit snuggly around your teeth like a turtleneck around your neck. When you have periodontal disease, this supporting tissue and bone is destoryed, forming "pockets" around the teeth. Over time, these pockets become deeper, providing a larger space in which bacteria can live. As bacteria develop around the teeth, they can accumulate and advance under the gum tissue. These deep pockets collect even more bacteria, resulting in further bone loss and tissue loss. Eventually if too much bone is lost the teeth will need to be extracted.

 

Is periodontal diesease genetic?

Research says that up to 30% of the population mya be genetically susceptible ot gum disease. Even with aggressive oral hygeine if you are genetically predispositioned towards it you may be up to six times more prone to developing periodontal disease. Identifying yourself as a possible genetic candidate may lead you to visit the periodontist without a referal, to make sure that you are not exhibiting signs or sypmtoms, and that potential problems are resovled prior to a more aggressive form developing.

 

No. This is likely a sign of gum disease. Gum tissue is similar to other tissue like that of your hand. If your hands bled every time you washed them you would know you had a problem. Bleeding can also be a sign of infection. If your gums bleed only when you floss dont back off of the flossing! In fact it means that bacteria is lingering in your mouth after your home care and that you need to floss more. The best way to solve these problems is to see a specialist.

 

Can I pass periodontal disease to others?

According to the Journal of the American Dental Association periodontal disease can be passed from parents to children and between couples. Research suggests that this is done through the saliva, and so transfer is possible between non family members as well, by sharing glasses or other forms of saliva contact. Dont share drinking glasses with others without proper sterilization! In fact the AAP recommends that if a family member has severe periodontal disease all members be checked by a professional.

 

Insurance plans cover many peridontal procedures, some insurances even cover implants. To see if we are a preffered provider for your insurance company click on this link: Insurance Options. Our consult is free so come in today and we can help determine how much your insurance will cover and what payment options you have. Your periodonal health is important so talk to our office staff about your insurance. Our staff will work with your insurance company to secure maximum benefits.