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What Does a Periodontist Do?

The majority of individuals concentrate on their teeth when considering dental health. However, your gums, bones, and connective tissues are equally important. These formations help maintain your teeth’s strength and stability
A periodontist focuses on these supportive components. They identify and address issues that general dentists may not manage. Their efforts extend past standard dental treatment to emphasize the core of your smile.

When Should You See a Periodontist?

Your general dentist handles most routine care. They do teeth cleanings, dental fillings, and basic gum treatments. But some problems need a specialist’s attention.
Your dentist might refer you to a periodontist. You can also seek one out yourself if you notice warning signs.
Watch for these symptoms:

  • Gums that bleed or look swollen
  • Bad breath that won’t go away
  • Teeth that feel loose
  • Gums pulling away from your teeth
  • Pain when you chew
  • Deep pockets between your gums and teeth

Don’t wait if you see these signs. Early treatment prevents bigger problems down the road.

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What Problems Do Periodontists Treat?

These specialists handle several serious conditions:

  • Gum Disease: It starts as gingivitis – mild gum inflammation. Without treatment, it becomes periodontitis. This serious infection destroys bone and tissue around your teeth. Early stages can often be reversed. Later stages focus on stopping further damage.
  • Receding Gums: This isn’t just about looks. Receding gums exposed tooth roots. This makes teeth sensitive and more prone to decay. It can also make teeth unstable. Periodontists use grafting procedures to restore lost gum tissue.
  • Bone Loss: Infections, injuries, or missing teeth can damage the jawbone. Periodontists perform bone grafts to rebuild this foundation. This prepares the area for dental implants or helps save existing teeth.
  • Missing Teeth: Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth. Many periodontists place these implants. They handle the surgical placement and all the planning that goes with it.
  • Smile designing: Some people have gummy smiles or uneven gum lines. Periodontists can reshape gums to improve your smile’s appearance.

How Do They Treat These Problems?

Treatment depends on how severe the problem is. It also considers your overall health.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Early gum disease often responds to deep cleaning. This includes scaling and root planing. Antibiotics might help reduce infection. Some periodontists use laser therapy to target diseased tissue while protecting healthy areas.

Surgical Treatments

Advanced cases need surgery. Options include:

  • Lifting gums to clean deep pockets and reshape bone
  • Placing tissue or bone grafts to rebuild lost structure
  • Preparing the jaw for implants or placing them

These procedures aim to restore stability and stop disease progression.

What Training Do Periodontists Have?

Periodontists complete four years of dental school like all dentists. Then they do three more years of specialized training. This residency covers complex gum disease, surgical techniques, and implant placement.
Some periodontists get board certification. This isn’t required but shows extra commitment to excellence. It involves additional exams and ongoing education.

The Connection Between Gums and Overall Health

Research shows that gum health affects your whole body. Chronic gum disease doesn’t stay in your mouth.

Studies link gum disease to several health problems:

  • Diabetes – Poor gum health makes blood sugar harder to control
  • Heart disease and stroke – Gum inflammation may contribute to artery problems
  • Lung infections – Mouth bacteria can reach your lungs
  • Pregnancy complications – Gum disease links to premature birth and low birth weight
  • Memory problems – Some research suggests connections to Alzheimer’s disease
  • Certain cancers – Links found to pancreatic, kidney, and blood cancers

Treating gum disease might help prevent these other health issues.

Working with Other Dental Professionals

Periodontists work as part of a team. They collaborate with:

  • General dentists who monitor your overall oral health
  • Orthodontists when braces or aligners are involved
  • Prosthodontists who make crowns, bridges, and implant restorations
  • Medical doctors when health conditions affect your mouth

This teamwork ensures you get complete care.

Periodontist vs General Dentist: Key Differences

Aspect Periodontist General Dentist
Focus Specializes in gums, bone, and implants Provides comprehensive dental care
Training Additional 3 years of specialized education Standard dental school education
Procedures Advanced gum surgery, bone grafts, implant placement Cleanings, fillings, basic gum treatment
Technology 3D imaging, laser therapy, regenerative techniques Standard dental imaging and tools
Case Complexity Handles severe gum disease, complex implant cases Refers complex cases to specialists

Cost of Periodontal Treatment at Clove Dental

Treatment costs vary based on the procedure complexity and duration. Here are typical starting ranges:

Treatment Prices
Ultrasonic Scaling Starts at ₹1,790
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) For complex cases, such as periodontitis, it starts at ₹3,390
Bone Grafts ₹2,500 – ₹9,900
Dental Implants ₹30,900 – ₹63,900 per implant

Additional costs may include consultations, dental X-rays, and follow-up visits. Clove Dental clinics offer payment plans to make treatment more affordable.

New Advances in Periodontal Treatment

The field keeps evolving with new technologies:

  • Stem cell treatments to regrow lost tissue
  • 3D-printed materials for bone and gum regeneration
  • Laser procedures that cause less discomfort
  • Probiotics to improve mouth bacteria balance
  • AI tools for early disease detection
  • Personalized treatment based on your genetics and lifestyle

These aren’t just future possibilities. Many are already helping patients today.

How to Find the Right Periodontist

When choosing a periodontist, consider:

  • Experience and credentials: Look for periodontal society certifications and years of practice
  • Technology: Modern equipment improves treatment outcomes
  • Patient reviews: Check testimonials and success stories
  • Consultation approach: They should explain treatment clearly and answer questions
  • Location and accessibility: Convenient access for regular visits

Booking Your Appointment

It’s simple to get periodontal care:

  • Make an appointment online in less than 60 seconds by contacting any of the Clove
  • Dental clinics directly or by searching for “Dentist Near Me.”
  • Give your preferred time and contact details.
  • Fill out any necessary paperwork before your visit.
  • Prepare inquiries regarding your particular worries.
  • Bring any prior Dental X-rays or dental records.

The Significance of Periodontal Care

Healthy gums promote healthy teeth and contribute to overall health. A periodontist offers specialized expertise and equipment, whether you’re dealing with current issues or aiming to avoid them.
Think about visiting a periodontist if you experience ongoing gum issues, require dental implants, or desire specialized assistance for your oral health. It might be among the top health choices you can make.

Verified
Medically Reviewed
Last Reviewed by Clove Clinical Team on June 20, 2025 | Written by Dr. Shreya BDS, PGDCC.
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