What kind of dentist treats gum disease, specifically addressing whether it’s a general dentist, a specialist, or both, and what factors might influence when a patient is referred to a specialist for gum disease treatment?
Answer
A periodontist is the type of dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease (gum disease) and in the placement of dental implants.
Periodontists receive extensive training, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. This specialized training focuses on the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, including bone. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of procedures, such as:
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Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
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Pocket Reduction Surgery (Flap Surgery): Involves lifting the gums to remove bacteria and tartar from deep pockets around the teeth, then repositioning the gums to reduce the size of the pockets. Sometimes bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration techniques are used in conjunction with flap surgery to help regenerate lost bone and tissue.
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Gum Grafting: Used to cover exposed tooth roots, protect teeth from sensitivity, and prevent further gum recession. Gum tissue can be taken from the palate (roof of the mouth) or another donor site.
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Bone Grafting: Used to replace bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease. Bone grafts can be made from the patient’s own bone, donor bone, or synthetic materials.
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Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): A procedure used to regenerate bone and tissue that have been lost due to periodontal disease. It often involves the use of a membrane to separate the gum tissue from the bone, allowing the bone to regenerate more effectively.
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Dental Implants: Periodontists are often involved in the placement of dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge.
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Crown Lengthening: A surgical procedure that exposes more of the tooth structure to allow for a better fit of a crown or filling.
- Periodontal Maintenance: Regular cleanings and examinations to help prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. Periodontists will also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices at home.
While general dentists can diagnose and treat mild cases of gum disease (gingivitis), they often refer patients with moderate to severe periodontitis to a periodontist for specialized care. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing tooth loss and maintaining overall oral health.