Periodontists at Van Nuys Dentistry are dental specialists who focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and supporting tissues surrounding teeth. By combining cutting-edge techniques with a gentle and compassionate approach, periodontists help patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Let’s explore some interesting facts about them!
What is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and supporting tissues surrounding teeth. Periodontists also specialize in the placement and maintenance of dental implants.
Periodontists are experts in the treatment of:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis
- Gum recession
- Bone loss
- Dental implants
- Soft tissue grafting
- Bone grafting
- Crown lengthening
- Gum contouring
How often should you see a periodontist?
The frequency of visits to a periodontist depends on individual needs and circumstances. Generally, patients with a history of periodontal disease or those at high risk of developing it should see a periodontist every 3-6 months for maintenance and monitoring. For patients with dental implants, regular visits to a periodontist are crucial to ensure the longevity of the implant. Typically, implant patients should see a periodontist every 6-12 months. Additionally, if you experience any changes in your oral health, such as bleeding gums, loose teeth, or unusual sensitivity, you should schedule an appointment with a periodontist as soon as possible.
What services do periodontists offer?
Periodontists offer a wide range of services to diagnose, treat, and prevent periodontal diseases and related conditions. These services include:
- Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar
- Gum grafting to repair receding gums
- Bone regeneration to rebuild lost bone tissue
- Dental implant placement and maintenance
- Crown lengthening to expose more of the tooth
- Gum contouring to reshape the gum line
- Soft tissue grafting to repair defects
- Periodontal maintenance therapy to prevent disease progression
- Oral cancer screenings
- Sedation dentistry for anxious patients
- Personalized treatment plans to address unique needs
Are periodontists only for treating gum disease?
No, periodontists are not only for treating gum disease. While they are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases, their expertise extends beyond gum disease treatment. Periodontists are also trained in various procedures related to the gums and supporting tissues, including dental implant placement, bone regeneration, and soft tissue grafting. Additionally, they provide services such as crown lengthening, gum contouring, and oral cancer screenings. Periodontists also focus on preventive care, educating patients on proper oral hygiene techniques and providing personalized maintenance plans to prevent future problems. Furthermore, they often work with patients who require complex dental care, such as those with dental implants, orthodontic appliances, or compromised oral health due to systemic conditions like diabetes.
What is the difference between a periodontist and a general dentist?
The primary difference between periodontists and general dentists lies in their specialized training, expertise, and scope of practice. General dentists receive broad training in various aspects of dentistry, including fillings, crowns, and extractions, and provide routine care for patients’ teeth and gums. Periodontists, on the other hand, receive advanced training in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases, as well as implantology and related surgical procedures. While general dentists can diagnose and treat mild periodontal cases, periodontists are equipped to handle complex cases, perform surgical procedures, and provide specialized care for patients with severe gum disease, dental implants, or other periodontal needs. Additionally, periodontists often work in conjunction with general dentists, referring patients back to their general dentist for routine care after specialized treatment.
Do periodontists treat children?
Periodontists typically focus on treating adults and adolescents with complex periodontal needs, but they may also treat children in certain circumstances. While general dentists and pediatric dentists usually handle routine care for children’s teeth and gums, periodontists may be consulted for young patients with specialized needs, such as:
- Severe gum disease or periodontal defects
- Congenital conditions affecting the gums or teeth
- Trauma-related gum or tooth damage
- Orthodontic-related periodontal concerns
- Developmental anomalies requiring specialized care