When a Periodontist Evaluates the Health of Gums

When it comes to gum health, a periodontist is the right professional to see. Healthy gums are an integral part of your oral health and overall wellness. If you fail to take care of your gums, you can suffer severe consequences. Fortunately, periodontal services can diagnose, prevent, and treat gingivitis and periodontitis. There are times when you would want a periodontist to examine your gums and provide treatment.

The role of a periodontist

In the world of dentistry, there are various dentists who focus on different aspects of oral health. Periodontists are concerned about patients’ gums and the diseases that can afflict this tissue. This dentist will also diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions that affect the bones of the mouth. Most often, these professionals handle issues regarding gum disease.

Patients may get a referral to periodontists from their general dentist. Periodontists will examine the patient and review the person’s health history. Then, this dentist will devise the appropriate treatment plan. The periodontist will communicate the patient’s treatment and care with the person’s family dentist.

An explanation of gum disease

In the early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. This is when the tissue becomes inflamed and infected. The gums may be tender and bleed during brushing. This occurs when bacteria invade the gums due to plaque and tartar on the teeth. As the condition advances, it becomes periodontitis. At this point, the infection spreads to the bone.

The gums can also recede and pull away from the teeth. This may lead to the teeth becoming loose and falling out. Bone loss can also occur. Without treatment from a periodontist, the infection can spread. In severe cases, it can get into the bloodstream and affect the cardiovascular system.

Signs that it is time to get help

Occasional bleeding of the gums during brushing or flossing is not unusual or necessarily alarming. When the bleeding is frequent and heavy, the person may have later-stage gum disease. The bleeding may even happen when the individual is eating. Other symptoms of gum disease include bad breath or sensitive teeth. If any of these signs show up, it is time to see a periodontist.

What periodontists will do for patients

When a patient goes to see a periodontist, there will be a thorough exam. The dentist will look for gum recession and note the inflammation. After diagnosing the patient, the periodontist will prescribe an effective treatment. This may consist of deeply cleaning the teeth of plaque and tartar. Or, the dentist may elect to remove this building from under the gumline. Surgery may be necessary for widespread gum disease.

The right treatment is available to get your gum health back on track

Unhealthy gums can cause significant problems with your oral health. If you have periodontitis, you should see treatment right away. A periodontist can accurately diagnose your condition and stop the progression of this disease. With intervention, you can avoid the consequences that come from this issue, including tooth loss and bone loss. Make an appointment with the periodontist today if you are struggling with gum disease.

Are you considering seeing a periodontist in the Odessa area? Get more information at https://www.westtexasperio.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.