Why Should You See a Periodontist Instead of a Regular Dentist?

When there’s a problem with your smile, your first instinct is naturally going to be to call a dentist. While there’s nothing wrong with that, there are quite a few cases where you’re better off getting in touch with a specialist instead. If you notice signs of gum disease in your mouth or are planning on getting a dental implant, you should find a reliable periodontist in Huntington Beach as soon as you can. Read on to learn the difference between a periodontist and a dentist – and why seeing a specialist for specific oral health problems could make all the difference.

What is a Periodontist?

Periodontics is one of 10 specialized areas of dentistry that focuses on the health of the gums, the jawbone, and other supporting structures for your teeth. As such, a periodontist is a special kind of dentist who generally focuses on treating gum disease and placing dental implants; they might also offer some advanced treatments for saving teeth, and they may even perform a few cosmetic procedures such as perio plastic surgery.

How are Periodontists Different from Dentists?

A regular dentist can also offer gum-related services, but if they want to call themselves a periodontist, they need do undergo some additional education and training. Specifically, after earning their dental degree, they must train in periodontics for another 2 to 3 years, during which time they’ll gain experience in specific non-surgical and surgical procedures, including dental implant placement and periodontal treatment.

Advantages of Seeing a Periodontist

When it comes to treating infected gums and services related to dental implants, periodontists have a level of expertise that regular dentists can’t match. Not only have they trained more extensively in these procedures, but they also perform them on a far more regular basis, making them significantly more experienced. Dentists will often refer you to a periodontist if your case is too complex or severe for them to treat on their own, or if they simply do not offer the kind of treatment that you need to restore your overall oral health.

When Should You Call a Periodontist?

The most obvious reason to visit a periodontist is when you’re experiencing the symptoms of gum disease, which might include:

• Red or inflamed gum tissue
• Bleeding easily when you brush or floss
• Experiencing pain while chewing
• Receding gum tissue (meaning it’s pulling away from your teeth)
• Bone loss in the jaw

Healthy teeth and gums are extremely important; to keep them safe, you need to make sure that your smile is in the best hands at all times. If any of the above symptoms sound familiar, get in touch with a periodontist near you today to learn more about the services they offer so that you know who to call when the worst happens.

About the Author

Dr. Justin Braga has over 15 years in the field of dentistry, and he feels very blessed to have the knowledge and training that allows him to save his patients’ teeth or set the foundation for new teeth. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and has been Board-Certified in Periodontics and Dental Implant Surgery. To schedule an appointment at his practice, Huntington Beach Periodontics & Dental Implants, visit his website or call (714) 587-9094.