What is a periodontist?- The ultimate guide!

Table of contents

• What is a periodontist?
• Why have I been referred to a periodontist?
• Can you cure gum/periodontal disease?
• What if I leave my gum disease untreated?

What is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a dentist who specialises in treating gum conditions. Periodontists work by identifying the type of bacterial infection responsible for the problem, prescribing a treatment plan, and providing information on good dental hygiene.

Since gum conditions can range from mild to severe, periodontists create treatment plans that not only manage existing gum conditions but also prevent them from occurring in the future.

Periodontists can carry out non-surgical and surgical treatments. Some of these include scaling, grafting, and gum grafts.

On some occasions, periodontal disease can be treated by a regular dentist or hygienist. However, if your condition has not responded well to past treatment or if it is severe or extensive, you may benefit from a referral to someone who can provide more advanced care.

Here at RW Perio, our wealth of experience allows us to treat even the most advanced cases of gum diseases. To find out more about how we can help you, click here!

Why have I been referred to a periodontist?

Your dentist may have referred you to a periodontist if they are unable to adequately heal your infection. This could be due to a bacterial infection, or any underlying infections that you may have which would make collaboration with a periodontist the most optimal healthcare treatment for you.

These could include any of the following:

• Early onset of periodontal diseases (prior to the age of 35)
• Unresolved inflammation at any site (e.g., bleeding upon probing, pus, and/or redness)
• Pocket depths >5 mm
• Vertical bone defects
• Radiographic evidence of progressive bone loss
• Progressive tooth mobility
• Progressive attachment loss
• Anatomic gingival deformities
• Exposed root surfaces
• A deteriorating risk profile

Can you cure gum/periodontal disease?

You can never really ‘cure’ gum/periodontal disease, but you can treat and stabilise it. Once treated and the gums are healthy, you need to ensure life-long regular maintenance at home and with your hygienist to ensure you minimize any chances of relapse.

Here at RW Perio, we work with you to provide a long-term hygiene and treatment plan that allows you to manage your gum disease. To find out more about how to maintain healthy gums, check out our 10-step guide to healthy gums here!

What if I leave my gum disease untreated?

If your gum/periodontal condition is left untreated, this can result in your teeth loosening up and eventual tooth loss. Other associated symptoms may also start to develop, including bleeding gums, gum boils, bad breath, bad taste, and painful gums/teeth. You may get very little symptoms until it is advanced, so it is important to catch it early, as it’s a preventable and treatable condition.

To check whether you need to see a dentist, check out our recent article here!

Get in touch and start your journey to optimal gum health today!