The is more to the dental sciences than many of us realize. After the completion of the four-year undergraduate dental sciences program, the student then can choose to study for an addition three years earning further education in a specialty area. Periodontistry is just one of nine such specialties. A periodontist focuses on and specializes in the soft gum tissues in your mouth. They frequently will help you with either the prevention of gum disease or the treatment of the gum disease. They work extensively in identifying and diagnosing the disease and the extent of the infection. Most periodontists are trained to perform a cosmetic procedure called crown lengthening and also to surgically place dental implants. Let us look at these specialties.
Gum Disease or Periodontal Disease
Almost half of the American adults over the age of 30 have some stage or form of gum disease. With that many people affected you can see the need for periodontists. Even though there can be various causes for gum disease, the single most prominent cause is simple neglect, or bad oral hygiene habits at home. The health industry strongly recommends we brush twice a day for two minutes each time. If you do not brush a clear sticky substance instantly forms on your teeth carrying damaging bacteria. The acids in the plaque attack the tooth enamel resulting in decay and cavities. When the plaque comes in contact with the soft tissue of the gums it results is an immediate infection. In the initial stage, the gum disease is called gingivitis which can be reversed quickly and easily with a deep teeth cleaning. The periodontist uses a handheld tool to scale the teeth beneath the gumline, even the roots if necessary, removing the source of the infection. With the source gone the tissue will return to normal health in a few days. If the disease has progressed into the next stage, or periodontitis, the intensity and extent of the scaling and deep root planing is more severe. Treating gum disease is a big part of the periodontic education.
Crown Lengthening
When you smile you should see a visual balance of teeth and gums. If you see more gum soft tissue than white crowns this cosmetic condition is called a gummy smile. The periodontist, after administering a local anesthetic, can easily remove some of your gums with either a surgical scalpel or laser to expose more of each tooth. When the gums heal the visual proportions have been normalized. This is a frequent, common, and simple procedure.
Dental Implants
If you have lost a tooth, either from an extraction or an accident, it leaves an obvious gap. If you do not fill this space soon the neighboring teeth will drift and shift into the space affecting your bite pattern. You can choose a traditional dental bridge or the new gold standard for a tooth replacement, a dental implant. A tiny titanium post is implanted into your jawbone in the space. Once fused to the bone an artificial crown is attached. The implant functions like a tooth root providing stability.
Your Family Dentist and Your Periodontist
Your family dentist identifies gum disease often and will include a periodontist depending on the severity of your disease. Family dentists and periodontists have good strong working relationships because they share the concern for your healthy smile.
