Understanding the Role of a Periodontist and Their Importance
The periodontal disease destroys attachment fibers and supporting bones in the mouth. An excess of plaque and tartar is the main reason people develop this condition. Plaque is a colorless and sticky substance that forms on the teeth due to oral hygiene and eating habits. When it remains long enough, it turns into hard mineral deposits known as tartar.
How a Periodontist Can Help
Like many people, you may not have heard of this dental specialty. A periodontist is a dentist who has obtained additional training in preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease. He or she can also install dental implants for patients. One of the most common duties of a periodontist is the treatment and prevention of gum disease.
What You Need to Know About Gum Disease
Plaque and bacteria can attack the gums, leaving them red, irritated, tender, and bleeding. While those are the most common signs of gum disease, some people don’t realize they have it at all. That’s why keeping up with preventive care exams with your regular dentist is so important. Gum disease can cause pockets to form along your gum line. When the gum pockets become infected, it can affect the stability of your permanent teeth.
Scaling and root planing is a common procedure used to treat gum disease. Another name for it is deep cleaning. Dental hygienists use special cleaning methods to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and break up gum pockets. They then educate you on home care so you can avoid needing the procedure again in the future.
Do You Suspect Gum Disease? Set-up a Consultation Today
Now that you know what a periodontist is, don’t hesitate to contact your dental provider for an evaluation if you feel you could have gum disease or another common dental health problem. While gum disease is highly treatable in the early stages, it can contribute to significant health issues such as diabetes and heart disease if left untreated.
Suburban Essex Dental located in West Orange, NJ is a periodontist and highly experienced in the periodontal field of dentistry. Contact Suburban Essex Dental today to get a full dental examination. Let us help you prevent periodontal disease.
