Your smile is one of the first things people notice — and it can be one of your most powerful assets. Unfortunately, around 40% of adults in the United States struggle with some form of gum disease — ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontal disease. While this statistic may seem alarming, there's good news: seeing a periodontist can play a crucial role in preventing gum disease, halting its progression, or even repairing structures damaged by the condition.
Periodontal specialists have the expertise and tools necessary to maintain and restore oral health. But how do you know when it's time to schedule an appointment with a periodontist?
Read on to discover the key signs that you should seek periodontal care and learn where to find the best periodontists in Houston.
What is a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease — as well as aspects of restorative dentistry, including gum grafting or the placement of dental implants. These experts also have extensive training beyond general dentistry, typically completing three additional years of education after dental school.
Why is Periodontal Health Important?
Periodontal health plays a crucial role in the success and longevity of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments such as veneers and dental implants. In the case of veneers, healthy gums are essential for proper placement and aesthetics, as inflamed or receding gums can compromise the appearance and fit of the veneers.
For dental implants, periodontal health is even more critical, as the implant must integrate with the surrounding bone and soft tissue to achieve osseointegration. Periodontal disease can lead to bone loss, which may reduce the available bone for implant placement or compromise the stability of existing implants. Additionally, harmful bacteria associated with periodontal disease can increase the risk of infection and implant failure.
Maintaining good periodontal health before, during, and after these treatments ensures better outcomes, improved healing, and longer-lasting results. It also helps preserve the natural teeth and supporting structures adjacent to the treated areas, contributing to overall oral health and the success of the cosmetic or restorative work.
Five Signs You Should See a Periodontist
While routine dental check-ups with your general dentist are important for maintaining oral health, certain symptoms signal the need for a periodontal expert. Here are five telltale signs that you should consider scheduling an appointment with a periodontist:
1. Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums, especially after brushing or flossing, are often the first visible sign of gum disease. This occurs when plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gum line, causing inflammation and irritation. Healthy gums should not bleed easily, so if you notice pink in the sink after oral care routines, it's a clear indicator that your gums need attention from a periodontist.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
Increased tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures, can be a sign of early gum disease. As gums recede due to inflammation or infection, they expose the sensitive roots of teeth. This exposure can lead to discomfort when consuming certain foods or drinks.
3. Receding Gum Line
A receding gum line, where the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, is a sign of advancing gum disease. This recession exposes more of the tooth surface and can make teeth appear longer. It's often accompanied by increased sensitivity and can lead to further complications if left untreated. A periodontist can assess the extent of gum recession and recommend appropriate treatments.
4. Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath that persists despite good oral hygiene can also indicate gum disease. This symptom occurs when a build-up of bacteria produces foul-smelling sulfur compounds, leading to chronic bad breath. If mouthwash and thorough brushing don't resolve the issue, it's time to seek a periodontist's evaluation for underlying gum problems.
5. Loose Teeth
As gum disease progresses into its most advanced stage — known as periodontal disease — it affects the supporting structures of your teeth, including the jawbone. This deterioration can cause teeth to become loose or shift position. You might notice changes in your bite or spaces developing between teeth where none existed before. These are serious signs of advanced periodontal disease that require immediate attention from a specialist.
Common Treatments for Gum Disease
If you have any of the symptoms listed above, you may wonder about gum disease treatment options. A range of effective treatments aim to halt the progression of the disease, restore damaged tissues, and prevent further complications:
1. Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is often the first line of defense against early to moderate gum disease. This deep-cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, then smoothing out rough spots on the tooth root to eliminate bacteria and provide a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
This treatment is typically performed under local anesthesia and may require multiple visits. This treatment is most effective for patients with gingivitis or early periodontitis, helping to reduce inflammation, shrink pocket depths, and halt the progression of gum disease.
2. Gum Graft
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure used to treat gum recession. During this treatment, the periodontist takes healthy gum tissue from another part of the mouth — usually the palate — and attaches it to areas where the gums have receded. This procedure helps protect exposed tooth roots, reduce sensitivity, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile.
3. Dental Implants
While not a direct treatment for gum disease, dental implants often come into play as a restorative solution after severe periodontal disease has led to tooth loss. These artificial tooth roots, made of titanium, are surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth.
Where to Find the Best Periodontal Care in Houston
With his impeccable reputation and cutting-edge periodontal treatments, Dr. Ernest Erian at Sapphire Smiles has become a trusted expert for gum health in Houston. His advanced techniques and comprehensive approach to treating gum disease make him the go-to periodontist for patients seeking top-quality care and lasting results.
Ready to experience excellent periodontal care from Houston's leading gum specialist?