Ankeny dental specialists are trained periodontists who focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including gums, cementum (outer layer of tooth root), periodontal ligament, and the alveolar bone.
This informative blog will help you understand the dental services offered by periodontists to maintain good oral health.
Who is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental professional, preferably a gum specialist who focuses on treating conditions that affect the tissues supporting the teeth (the gums and jawbone). They receive special training to offer a comprehensive approach to gum diseases.
The common conditions treated by a periodontist
Periodontists specialize in gum health by treating the following conditions:
- Gingivitis
- The early stage of gum disease-causing inflammation.
- Symptoms include red, swollen, inflamed, and bleeding gums.
- Periodontitis
- A more advanced stage of gum disease involves irreversible damage to the gums and supporting bone.
- Symptoms include loss of gingival attachment and loose teeth.
- Gum recession
- The gradual loss of gum tissues that pull away from the tooth surface exposing the roots.
- Gum disease associated with systemic conditions
- Systemic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease can influence your gum health.
The types of procedures offered by a periodontist
To maintain the vitality, and integrity of your gums, periodontists offer the following procedures:
- Teeth cleaning (supragingival)
- Deep scaling (subgingival)
- Root planing (smoothening the root surfaces)
- Antibiotic therapy
- Periodontal surgery such as flap surgery, gum grafts, bone grafts, crown lengthening, smile lift, frenectomy
- Patient education about ways to keep your gums healthy through good oral care, proper nutrition, and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
- Dental implant surgery
Useful tips to prevent periodontal disease
You can adopt the following tips in your routine life to prevent periodontal disease:
- Brush and floss your teeth twice daily
- Use a soft-bristled brush
- Avoid brushing with a lot of force
- Eat a healthy balanced diet
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
- Rinse your mouth after consuming sugary, starchy, or acidic foods and drinks
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Visit your dentist at regular intervals of at least 6 months
Takeaway
Optimal gum health is crucial and usually depends on healthy teeth. Periodontists, specializing in gum and surrounding tissue care, play a pivotal role. Your general dentist may recommend you to consult a periodontist while facing dental issues like gum disease, or compromised bone health. These specialists possess comprehensive expertise, training, skills, and experience to address concerns and aid in sustaining optimal oral health.