Periodontics Specialist in Texas

Periodontics is a field of dentistry dedicated to the care and management of gum health and the structures that support your teeth. If you’re experiencing symptoms, such as persistent gum swelling, sensitivity, or bleeding, that aren’t resolved with regular dental care, you may be referred to a periodontist.

Periodontists specialize in treating conditions related to gum health, including gingivitis and periodontitis. They also address issues like gum recession, gum infections, and low jawbone density. These dental professionals perform a range of treatments that focus on preventing, diagnosing, and managing gum diseases.

While all periodontists are dentists, not every dentist is a periodontist. General dentists act as primary care practitioners for dental health and can address a broad range of oral care needs. These professionals conduct routine check-ups, cleanings, and are your first stop for common dental issues like cavities, tooth decay, and minor tooth repairs.

On the other hand, periodontists are specialized dental professionals with extensive training in the treatment of gum disease and the supporting structures of the teeth. After completing dental school, periodontists undergo additional years of education focused specifically on periodontal disease and its treatments, including complex surgeries. They’re experts in managing severe gum conditions that require care beyond regular dental cleanings, such as deep scaling and root planing, gum grafts, and the placement of dental implants.

If you’ve noticed concerns such as swollen, bleeding, or receding gums, you should see a dental professional promptly to have your oral health assessed. If your general dentist discovers advanced gum disease or another condition involving the oral supporting structures, they will refer you to see a periodontist for specialized care.

If your dentist refers you to a periodontist, it may be due to several reasons, such as:

• Advanced gum disease – Also known as periodontitis, this condition is characterized by swollen, tender gums that bleed easily. If not properly treated, this condition can result in tooth loss and other complications. Periodontists use targeted therapies such as scaling and root planing and, if necessary, more advanced surgical interventions to manage your symptoms as effectively and gently as possible.
• Gum recession – If you notice your gums pulling back from your teeth, it’s time to have your oral health assessed by a periodontist. Gum recession can expose sensitive roots and lead to complications such as pain, tooth loss, and bone loss.
• Tooth extraction – When a tooth cannot be saved due to severe decay, trauma, or periodontal disease, a periodontist can perform a tooth extraction and help you explore restoration options, such as dentures or dental implants.
• Bone loss – In cases of severe periodontal disease, bone loss occurs around the teeth, which jeopardizes their stability and can cause significant discomfort. Periodontists can address this problem through regenerative procedures that promote bone growth and restore the jaw’s structural integrity.

Periodontists are skilled in a range of procedures for treating gum disease and related conditions and prioritize making the process as pain-free as possible. These procedures include:

• Scaling and root planing – Scaling involves scraping away plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, while root planing smooths out the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth. This process is used by periodontists to stop the progression of gum disease and reduce inflammation.
• Dental implants – Periodontists are experts in dental implant surgery, a procedure in which titanium posts are placed into the jawbone to anchor artificial teeth.
• Flap surgery – For patients with advanced periodontal disease, flap surgery may be necessary. In this treatment, the periodontist lifts the gums off the teeth to treat deep pockets and alleviate pain.
• Bone graft surgery – When periodontal disease causes bone loss around the teeth, bone graft surgery can be performed to restore bone tissue and improve the success of dental implants and other restorations.

If you have signs or symptoms of periodontal disease or are interested in preventive care, schedule a consultation with a periodontist at Gentle Dental Care. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Copperfield Houston TX, Cinco Ranch Katy TX, Magnolia TX, Katy TX, FM Spring TX, Spring TX, Montgomery TX, Westlake TX, Kelliwood TX, Copper Lakes TX, Brenwood TX, The Woodlands TX, Rayford TX, Pine Hurst TX, Egypt TX, Dobbin TX, Conroe TX, Louetta TX, Kohrville TX, Four Corners TX, Howellville TX, and surrounding areas. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online.