What Do Periodontists Do for Their Patients?
The gums are essential supportive tissues and a key element of oral health. Recent studies suggest a close connection between your oral health and your systemic health. Periodontists are specialists in the field of dentistry who are concerned with the soft tissues of the mouth. Their specific education and training qualify periodontists to treat all stages of gum disease as well as perform procedures such as dental implantation.
A periodontist offers more treatment options than a general dentist. Gum grafts, crown lengthening, pocket reduction, and regenerative procedures all fall under the expertise of a periodontist. Any procedure requiring modification to the soft tissues in the mouth benefit greatly from periodontal expertise. When the gums become inflamed, a periodontist has the knowledge to pinpoint the source of the problem and treat it accordingly.
A periodontist can perform intensive deep cleanings to improve gum health. These delicate procedures are the only way to halt the progress of advanced gingivitis. When plaque and tartar accumulate under the gum line, they cause inflammation and infection. With their specialized tools and training, periodontists carefully remove these deposits.
For patients dealing with advanced gum infection, antibiotics may be necessary to clean out the infection completely. This method is sometimes administered orally or topically on the gums.
The Benefits of Visiting a Periodontist for Implant Surgery
While some general dentists have taken continuing education courses to provide implant placement services, a periodontist receives years of specialized training that allows them to perform more advanced oral health procedures.
Periodontists are specialists in the field of gum tissue, underlying bone structure, and how the health of one affects the other. After an implant is placed into the jaw, the bone bonds with the implant post to provide a durable, long-lasting replacement for a missing tooth.
For more information on periodontal health, feel free to call the office of Dr. David Cote, DDS. He and his team at The Dental Office at River House offer periodontal services to patients in Arlington and beyond.