What does Periodontist do - Everything you need to know

Who are Periodontists?

Periodontists are dental professionals who specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum diseases. They are experts in periodontology, which studies the supporting structures of teeth, including gums, bones, and ligaments.

Periodontists in Houston undergo extensive training beyond dental school to become specialists in their field. They receive three additional years of education and clinical experience in periodontology, learning advanced techniques for treating gum disease and placing dental implants.

Gum disease can cause inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Periodontists play a crucial role in preventing and treating gum disease by providing patients with personalized care and treatment plans tailored to their needs.

Difference between dentists and periodontists.

Dentists are general practitioners who focus on overall oral health. They provide routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and other basic procedures. They also diagnose and treat dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay.

On the other hand, periodontists specialize in treating more complex issues related to the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. They receive additional training beyond dental school to become experts in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Periodontists also perform surgical procedures such as gum grafts, contouring, and dental implant placement. They are equipped to handle cases that involve advanced gum disease or damage caused by trauma or injury.

It’s important to note that while dentists and periodontists both play crucial roles in maintaining oral health, their focus areas differ. Dentists in Houston, TX, prioritize preventative care and identifying early signs of common dental issues. In contrast, periodontists concentrate on treating and preventing more serious problems related to the gums and bone surrounding teeth.

A key difference between these two professionals is the level of specialized training they receive. Choosing whether to see a dentist or a periodontist depends on your oral health needs. If you’re experiencing gum pain, swelling, or bleeding, schedule an appointment with a periodontist. However, a general dentist can typically handle routine check-ups and basic dental procedures.

Types of procedures They Perform

Dentists focus primarily on preventing and treating cavities and maintaining overall oral health. They offer routine cleaning services, fillings, crowns, and bridges. Additionally, many dentists provide cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers.

On the other hand, periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.

General dentists are dental professionals specializing in preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral health issues. They offer a range of procedures to ensure your teeth remain healthy and strong throughout your life.

One of the most common procedures offered by general dentists is dental cleanings which involve removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Another important procedure is filling cavities caused by decay with a filling material such as composite resin or amalgam.

General dentists also perform root canal therapy which involves treating an infected or inflamed pulp within the tooth. Other common procedures include tooth extractions, crown placements, and bridges for replacing missing teeth. General dentists can also provide cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening or veneers to improve the appearance of your smile.

While general dentists can handle most basic dental procedures, certain conditions may require specialized care from a periodontist.

What Type of Procedures Do Periodontists Offer?

Periodontists specialize in treating periodontal (gum) disease, a major cause of tooth loss in adults. The primary focus of their practice is the soft tissue surrounding the teeth, bones, and gums that support them.

A periodontist offers various types of procedures depending on the severity of your condition. For instance, scaling and root planing is a non-surgical treatment that removes bacteria and calculus buildup below the gum line. If surgery is required, several options are available, including flap surgery.

In addition to treating gum disease, a periodontist may perform cosmetic procedures to enhance the smile’s appearance. These may include gum contouring, which involves reshaping the gums to improve the symmetry and proportion of the teeth, or crown lengthening, which exposes more of the tooth structure to support restorative treatments like crowns or veneers.

Schedule an Appointment

Overall, visiting dentists and periodontists is important in maintaining optimal oral health. By working with a dentist, you can prevent and treat gum disease, preserve their natural teeth, and achieve a beautiful, healthy smile they can be proud of. Visit Rosary Dental for more information about periodontal and general dentistry procedures.