If you’re wondering what makes periodontists any different from general dentists, it all boils down to specialization. Periodontists have extended education and specialized training and are focused on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of any disorder, trauma and illnesses associated with the periodontal area, which basically refers to the tissues and bone around and supporting the teeth. Yes, a general dentist also treats periodontal or gum diseases but it takes the expertise of a periodontist in Spring or elsewhere to handle advanced cases. In addition, periodontists are also experts in the placement of dental implants as a solution to missing teeth.
Gum Disease:
Think about this. If a part of your body bleeds, like your hand, you normally are concerned, right? The same thing should apply when you notice your gums bleeding especially when you brush or floss. Ironically, a lot of people think this is quite normal. Swollen and bleeding gums can be early signs of periodontal disease. When you do nothing, the bacteria infecting your gums can spread out. While there are various types of gum or periodontal diseases, the effects are the same thing. Eventually, you’ll suffer from tooth or multiple teeth loss. In the past, there’d been a lot of studies on the cause of periodontal diseases. Today, it has been accepted that the main culprit can be the bacteria in dental plaque often caused by poor dental hygiene. And before you ignore it, you have to understand that an infection in your gums can have an impact on your overall health.
When To Visit A Periodontist:
Treating periodontal disease largely depends on its cause. This is why proper and accurate diagnosis is crucial. As mentioned, most early signs of the disease can be handled by a common dentist. However, moderate to advanced cases which normally require surgical treatment, should be treated by a periodontal expert. Commonly, when you suspect that you are suffering from gum disease, you go first to your dentist. If he feels that your condition is beyond his realm, he will gladly refer you to a specialist, usually a periodontist. Periodontists often work along with other dental specialists as part of a team to diagnose and treat dental problems. On the other hand, if you have any periodontal concern and at the same time you are also suffering from other medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, etc. you should consider going to a periodontist right away. Just like with other medical conditions, early detection and diagnosis can often lead to a successful and less expensive treatment.
Worried that you may have gum disease? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS of Houston Dental Implants Oral Surgery today for proper diagnosis and evaluation.
Gum Disease:
Think about this. If a part of your body bleeds, like your hand, you normally are concerned, right? The same thing should apply when you notice your gums bleeding especially when you brush or floss. Ironically, a lot of people think this is quite normal. Swollen and bleeding gums can be early signs of periodontal disease. When you do nothing, the bacteria infecting your gums can spread out. While there are various types of gum or periodontal diseases, the effects are the same thing. Eventually, you’ll suffer from tooth or multiple teeth loss. In the past, there’d been a lot of studies on the cause of periodontal diseases. Today, it has been accepted that the main culprit can be the bacteria in dental plaque often caused by poor dental hygiene. And before you ignore it, you have to understand that an infection in your gums can have an impact on your overall health.
When To Visit A Periodontist:
Treating periodontal disease largely depends on its cause. This is why proper and accurate diagnosis is crucial. As mentioned, most early signs of the disease can be handled by a common dentist. However, moderate to advanced cases which normally require surgical treatment, should be treated by a periodontal expert. Commonly, when you suspect that you are suffering from gum disease, you go first to your dentist. If he feels that your condition is beyond his realm, he will gladly refer you to a specialist, usually a periodontist. Periodontists often work along with other dental specialists as part of a team to diagnose and treat dental problems. On the other hand, if you have any periodontal concern and at the same time you are also suffering from other medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, etc. you should consider going to a periodontist right away. Just like with other medical conditions, early detection and diagnosis can often lead to a successful and less expensive treatment.
Worried that you may have gum disease? Visit Dr. Holly Gregory, DDS of Houston Dental Implants Oral Surgery today for proper diagnosis and evaluation.