Periodontists specialize in the treatment, diagnosis, and preventive management of the periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is an inflammatory disease that mainly affects the gums, but might also progress to the supportive jawbone. Periodontists will typically undergo extensive education and training in the management of these diseases, going through additional years beyond dental school. While some dentists might be able to treat or prevent less serious cases of periodontal disease, most will refer you to a periodontist if the case becomes more advanced.
Diagnosis
The first step when you visit a periodontist will be the diagnosis. To determine whether one has periodontitis and how severe it is, your periodontist will begin with a thorough evaluation of your medical history. This includes an analysis of the key factors that might contribute to your symptoms, including smoking or taking certain medications that might cause your mouth to dry.
The periodontist will also conduct a physical examination of your teeth, looking for plaque or tartar buildup or whether there are signs of gum bleeding. These are the most common tell-tale signs of gum disease. One of the specialized tools most periodontists will use to determine the extent of the gum disease is a dental probe. These probes measure the depth of the groove between your teeth at several sites of the mouth. Healthy teeth will typically have a pocket depth of between 1 and 3 mm. Anything deeper than 4mm might be an indication of periodontal disease.
Treatment
The main aim of the treatment of periodontal disease is to clean the pockets around the teeth and prevent further damage to the surrounding bone. Treatment is typically administered by the periodontist, but can also be done by a dentist or dental hygienist. You have a better chance of success if you also maintain strict dental hygiene.
Do you have any questions about the care and treatment of periodontitis? Call us today to schedule an appointment with our dentist.
Dental Implants Hattiesburg, MS | About Pine Belt Perio At Pine Belt Perio, our experience and expertise can help you improve or maintain your periodontal health, especially if you suffer from gum disease. Call today! Pine Belt Periodontics, 9 Medical Blvd., Hattiesburg, MS 39401 / (601) 255-9929 / drbrianpitfield.com / 9/24/2023 / Related Terms: Periodontist Hattiesburg MS /
Periodontists specialize in the treatment, diagnosis, and preventive management of the periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is an inflammatory disease that mainly affects the gums, but might also progress to the supportive jawbone. Periodontists will typically undergo extensive education and training in the management of these diseases, going through additional years beyond dental school. While some dentists might be able to treat or prevent less serious cases of periodontal disease, most will refer you to a periodontist if the case becomes more advanced.