Your oral health is vital. People have different dental problems, so the dentists they need to see are also different. Some people will not require a specialist periodontist because their situation is minor and can be treated by a general dentist. If you’re not sure who to see, this article will continue to discuss when to see a periodontist.
A periodontist is someone who specializes in gum health and dental implants. They receive extensive training in both these areas doing an additional 3 years of dental school.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are quite a common problem. However, while they may be caused by something as simple as brushing too hard, bleeding gums could also indicate the presence of gum disease.
Diseases like Gingivitis (gum inflammation) and Periodontitis (infection of the soft tissues around your teeth) can cause your gums to bleed when brushed or flossed. These infections are more likely to develop in smokers, diabetics, and those with weak immune systems, but essentially anyone can get them.
The best way to prevent these conditions is through good oral hygiene – this includes brushing two times a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once every day. Your dental hygienist should also check for signs of gum disease at your regular checkups.
However, if you are experiencing bleeding gums, it is best to see a periodontist for an evaluation. Periodontists have additional training in diagnosing and treating gum disease. Treatment may include a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) or antibiotics if the infection has spread to the bone.
It’s important to note that early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease can prevent further damage and even tooth loss. So don’t wait – if you are concerned about your gums, see your periodontist today!
If you have Red and Swollen Gums
If you notice red and swollen gums, it's critical to make a meeting with your periodontist at the earliest opportunity. Red and swollen gums are regularly an indication of gum disease or gingivitis; however, they could likewise be side effects of something more genuine. For example, in uncommon cases, swollen red gums can be a symptom of oral malignant growth.
The ideal approach to guarantee great dental well-being is visiting your periodontist consistently for routine checkups. By getting regular exams from a dental professional who spends significant time treating periodontal illness, both severe and vital issues can be identified early on before they deteriorate into increasingly dangerous health conditions like coronary illness or diabetes. Gum infection has additionally been connected to throat and lung infections, so you must get your red, or swollen gums looked at as quickly as time permits.
Lost Teeth Due to Gum Disease
If you aren't sure when to see a periodontist and whether you should go to a specialist or not, loss of teeth is a clear sign that it's time to seek help. Teeth can be lost due to gum disease, and if you notice any looseness or discomfort in your teeth, it's essential to get checked out by a specialist.
As mentioned on this page: Periodontal Specialists, the earlier gum disease is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome will be. Left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, bone damage, and even heart problems.
If you Just Had Dental Implants
If you have dental implants placed by another dentist for one reason or another, they must be cared for properly, not to damage them further. You may think that having a general dentist handle this procedure is enough, but we recommend having an experienced Periodontologist handle implant placement if possible.
If you have Bad Breath That Doesn't Go Away
While bad breath is usually nothing serious, it can sometimes signify periodontal disease. If your bad breath doesn't go away after brushing and flossing, or if it gets worse, you may need to see a periodontist.
You don't have to wait until you have pain or bleeding to see a periodontist. It's often best to catch gum disease early when it's easier to treat.
If your Dentist Advises you to do so
Dentists are the first line of defense when it comes to oral health. They can spot early signs of gum disease and other problems that may need the attention of a specialist. If your dentist advises you to see a periodontist, then there’s probably a good reason for it.
Some common reasons why your dentist might refer you to a periodontist include:
- Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Sensitive teeth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment with a periodontist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in preventing more severe damage from occurring.
High Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Food
Over time, the inflammation caused by gum disease can spread to the bone that supports your teeth, called the alveolar bone. This can cause sensitivity to hot or cold food.
The sensitivity is caused by the thinning of the alveolar bone, which exposes more of your tooth’s roots. Your root has a cementum layer that can be worn down over time and cause you to feel pain or temperature changes as it rubs against your nerves.
You may see a periodontist for this kind of sensitivity if your gum disease has been left untreated for some time. However, if caught early, then brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste can help reverse gum disease before it becomes more serious.
Painful Jaws
Nothing is as awful as waking up one day with a jaw that feels like it's on fire. If you're experiencing pain in your jaw, especially when chewing, it may be indicative of something more serious- such as gum disease.
You don't have to wait until the pain becomes unbearable to see a periodontist. It's better to get ahead of the problem. Gum disease can cause your teeth to loosen and eventually fall out when ignored.
Final Word
Periodontists are experts in the field of periodontal treatment. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent gum diseases caused by bacteria or plaque. As explained above, certain signs and symptoms indicate you should see a periodontist. If you are experiencing any of these, do not hesitate to make an appointment. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in preventing more severe problems down the road.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your periodontist. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
