What is a periodontist?

A periodontist is a registered dental specialist. Their focus is the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the structures holding your teeth and implants in place. These include the gums, jawbone, and ligaments that surround the teeth. After spending five years at university to qualify as a dentist and at least two years in general practice, a practitioner must return to university for a minimum of three years to specialise as a periodontist. In addition to this, they frequently go on to complete multiple post-graduate training programs.

 

What is periodontitis (gum disease)?

Periodontitis is a chronic immuno-inflammatory response to the presence of plaque and calculus on the teeth. This disease results in the destruction of the bone and gums holding your teeth and implants in place and can cause them to become loose or even fall out over time.

Increased susceptibility to periodontitis can be caused by a wide variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, diabetes and other systemic diseases, medications, smoking and stress. To holistically treat periodontitis, your periodontist needs to have an in-depth discussion with you and develop a profile of your individual risk factors.

The earlier gum disease is detected, the easier and more cost-effective it is to treat.

 

DO YOU HAVE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS?

  • swollen red gums that bleed easily
  • gums that have shrunk away from the teeth
  • persistent bad breath
  • a bad taste in your mouth
  • pus oozing from between teeth and gums
  • loose teeth

If so, then you may need to see a periodontist. With the help of our periodontists and a targeted home care routine, it is possible to keep your teeth for life.

 

Why is it important to get my gum disease treated?

The health risks of gum disease go far beyond the loss of teeth. There is a connection between gum disease and several serious medical conditions. People with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease and have nearly twice the risk of having a fatal heart attack. Gum disease has also been linked to other health problems, including diabetes, respiratory disease, Alzheimer’s disease, certain cancers, stroke, osteoporosis, and many others.

Please feel free to contact us to discuss your oral health needs.