Our Blog
13
May
When Should You See a Periodontist?
A periodontist is a specialist in conditions of gum disease and gum or jawbone-related concerns and treatments. A periodontist can help when you have serious gum conditions that may threaten your teeth or your overall health.
Why a Periodontist?
As a specialist, a periodontist is better trained and equipped to handle procedures related to the gums and other tissues. In addition to some focused treatment during dental school, periodontists have taken three additional years of focused training on gum conditions.
In addition to their training before they become certified, periodontists gain additional knowledge over the course of their practice. By focusing on gums and related conditions they have additional opportunities to gain focused knowledge on unusual circumstances and conditions. This makes them best suited to treating serious gum-related conditions.
When to See a Periodontist
Although there are many minor gum conditions that your dentist is capable of handling on their own, when a major situation arises, you should see a periodontist.
Examples of serious gum disease include:
- Loose teeth
- Damage to tooth below the gum line
- Exposed bone in the mouth
- Gum disease that worsens despite treatment
- Gum disease is associated with complicating conditions like diabetes
If your dentist wants to perform root scaling and planning, you may want to ask about seeing a periodontist who will have greater experience and expertise in this area.
You should consider seeing a periodontist for many types of oral surgery, such as dental implant surgery. Although many general dentists may offer to perform dental implant surgery, your odds of success are much higher when an experienced periodontist performs the procedure.
When choosing a dentist, it’s best to choose one who works regularly with specialists, because this is a dentist that you know prioritizes ensuring the highest quality care for patients.
If you are looking for a periodontist in Beverly Hills, please call (310) 275-5325 for an appointment at Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD.