Periodontists are specially trained to provide treatments that deal with gum tissue and supporting structures.
These specialists can perform surgical gum treatments, place dental implants, and correct cosmetic concerns like a gummy smile.
When do I need to see a periodontist?
While a general dentist typically refers you to a specialist if you have advanced gum disease or a problematic medical history, a periodontist can address most cases in-house. Periodontists can perform both cosmetic procedures such as gum lifts as well as restorative procedures, including gum flap surgery and bone grafting.
In addition to standard equipment such as probes, periodontists often use advanced imaging technology and state-of-the-art treatment equipment such as dental lasers to make procedures more comfortable.
Periodontists can perform various types of gum surgery to treat both cosmetic and health-related issues. For patients who lose a tooth as a result of gum disease, a periodontist can also replace missing teeth with dental implants.
Many periodontists pair careful technique with state-of-the-art technology to provide advanced procedures for patients. Some notable procedures include:
| - Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation |
| - LANAP Laser Treatment |
| - Laser Dentistry |
| - Piezosurgery |
These procedures are designed with patient comfort in mind and typically require few or no incisions compared to traditional gingival treatment methods. In many cases, this use of technology can expedite your treatment time and speed up your recovery period following a periodontal procedure.
If you've never heard of a periodontist, that's probably because your dentist has never had to refer you to one.
Some general dentists can perform scaling and root planing to treat early gum disease on their own, but most will refer you to a periodontist for more advanced issues. Periodontists are specialists who focus on complex cases which your regular dentist usually does not have the resources or training to address.