However, oral health is more than just keeping your teeth and smile clean. The gum, bone, and other supporting structures of the teeth also contribute significantly to the maintenance of oral health. When the gum, bone, and other supporting structures of the teeth are compromised, then oral health issues can be quite serious. Here, the role of periodontists becomes important.
What Is Periodontology?
Periodontology is the branch of dentistry that aims to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases of the gums and the structures that support the teeth. This includes the bone that anchors the teeth. One of the most frequent diseases treated by periodontists is gum disease, which is also known as periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease may start without much notice. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, bleeding during brushing, and odour. If left untreated, the disease may advance. This may result in gum recession, bone loss, and eventual loss of teeth. Periodontists specialize in the treatment of such conditions. They help slow the progression of the disease.
Difference between Dentists and Periodontists
General dentists provide routine dental work like cleanings, fillings, crowns, and basic gum care. Periodontists have more extensive specialized education involving several more years of study that is specifically devoted to gums.
If the gum disease reaches an advanced stage or the patient has been experiencing persistent gum issues, dentists may refer them to periodontists. Periodontists are also adept at gum surgery, dental implants, and deep cleaning.
They have the expertise necessary to deal with cases that require something beyond the usual dental treatment, especially when bone loss or chronic inflammation is a factor.
The Importance of Gum Health to the Entire Body
Healthy gums are important not only in taking care of our mouths, but it’s also important to our health in general. There have been many studies that have linked gum disease with other health problems, which include heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. The inflammation in our gums can impact our immune systems.
Periodontists help minimize risks by controlling gum disease in the early stages. They ensure that minor gum problems are not allowed to develop into major health concerns.
Common Cases Handled by Periodontists
Some of the gum and bone disorders that periodontists can treat include:
- Gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease
- Periodontitis, an advanced stage that impacts the bone
- Gum recession, in which the gums shrink away from the teeth
- Bone loss around teeth
- Around dental implants, inflammation can occur
- Oral Infections of the Soft Tissue
Treatment options depend on the extent of the disease. Some people might only need non-surgical interventions, while others would need more specialized treatment.
Role of Periodontists in Oral Health Maintenance
The aim of periodontal treatment goes beyond addressing the problem and aims at achieving stability. Periodontists deal with arresting the progression of diseases as well as maintaining healthy gums.
It may involve:
- Specific gum evaluations and measurements
- Deep Cleaning to remove Bacteria below the Gum Line
- Continuous monitoring & maintenance
- Teaching the patient about oral hygiene practices
- Personalized plans of care tailored to the individual’s risk factors
By treating the underlying causes of gum disease, periodontists enable patients to keep their teeth for as long as possible.
When Should You See a Periodontist?
Some individuals are not sure when to refer a patient to a specialist. Indicators that may show the need to see a periodontist are:
- Bleeding gums that do
- Gum swelling or tenderness
- Loose teeth
- Gum recession or longer-looking teeth
- Continuous bad breath
- Discomfort during chewing
Others who might also be considered high risk include those with a family history of gum disease, smokers, as well as those with other health conditions such as diabetes.
Accessing Specialist Gum Care
Access to periodontal specialists is essential to patients with gum complications. Patients can be referred by their dentists or can seek the services of the specialists on their own. Periodontists practicing in Sydney are dedicated to patients requiring special gum treatment and oral health management.
Getting the right care at the right time can make all the difference in the treatment and comfort level.
The Need for Regular Maintenance
Periodontal diseases often become chronic conditions which need regular follow-up. Periodontists highly emphasize the need for maintenance and prevention. Patients often need a systematic maintenance program after treatment in order to maintain healthy gums and prevent recurrence.
This ensures that the effects of the treatment remain for a long time and that the risk of complications in the future is reduced.
The Smile Specialists Suite represents periodontists located in Sydney and operates with the goal of providing the most advanced gum treatments and support in the field of dental health in the long term. Smile Specialists Suite provides patient-centred treatment and care in diagnosing and treating periodontal diseases and conditions in an effective and professional manner.
