In addition to dental school, Periodontists have had three years of extensive advanced training in the treatment of periodontal disease. As specialists, they devote their time, energy, and skill to helping people who need periodontal treatment. Periodontics is one of the eight specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Periodontists are Dentists who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gum disease.

2. "Why is my General Dentist referring me to a Periodontist?"

Your General Dentist has determined that your gums require the special care of a Periodontist. By referring you to a periodontist, your General Dentist is showing a strong commitment to your optimal dental care.The short term goal of your General Dentist and Periodontist is to bring you to a state of good oral health, and then help you maintain it. The long term goal is to have your teeth last a lifetime!

3. "What is periodontal disease and what do my gums have to do with this?"

Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial plaque - a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If the plaque is not removed, it hardens into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. Toxins ( poisons) produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums and can make them red, tender, swollen, and more likely to bleed easily.

4. "So what happens if I just ignore this plaque or tartar?"

As the plaque and tartar build up, periodontal disease progresses and the toxins destroy supporting gum tissues around teeth, forming pockets that fill with more plaque. Bad breath often accompanies this condition. Under the surface, bone that supports the teeth may be permanently damaged. Unless treated, the affected teeth can become loose and eventually lost.

5. "How can I prevent periodontal disease?"

Conscientious removal of plaque by brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings can minimize the risks of gum disease. However, other factors can affect the health of your gums, such as hereditary factors, stress, diabetes, and pregnancy.

6. "What will happen during the first visit to my Periodontist?"

After reviewing your medical and dental history, the Periodontist will examine your gums, teeth, and mouth. This examination will include looking at the color and firmness of your gums, studying which teeth are loose, checking for gum pockets, and checking how much gum tissue has been lost. Necessary radiographs (x-rays) may be taken to evaluate the bone supporting the teeth.

After gathering this information, the Periodontist will discuss your condition with you and your General Dentist, and your team will decide upon the best treatment for your dental health.

7. "What does periodontal treatment involve?"

In the earlier stages of gum disease, most of the treatment involves scaling and root planing, which means removing plaque and calculus in the pockets around the tooth and smoothing the root surfaces. In most cases of early gum disease, scaling and root planing and proper daily cleaning of the teeth are all that are required for a satisfactory result.

More advanced cases may require surgical treatment. The goals of this treatment are to remove calculus from deep pockets around the teeth, shrink the pockets, smooth root surfaces, and arrange gum tissue into a shape that will be easier to keep clean.

8. "Does periodontal treatment hurt?"

Modern equipment, local anesthetics, and state-of-the-art techniques make periodontal treatment more comfortable now than ever before. Effective medications (although often not necessary) are available to give you comfort after treatment. Considerations for your comfort during and after treatment will be tailored to best suit your individual needs.

9. "How much will periodontal treatment cost?"

The cost of periodontal treatment will vary depending upon your needs. After the Periodontist has examined you and discussed the treatment options with you and your General Dentist, he or she can provide you with an estimate of the cost. If you have a dental insurance plan, this may provide all or partial coverage for you. Our office will contact your insurance company to make this determination for you.

As you consider this health investment, keep in mind that treating gum disease is less costly and better for your health than replacing natural teeth with artificial ones due to tooth loss from untreated gum disease. In addition, consider the value of having fresh breath in your daily social and business contacts with other people.

10. "Now that I am treating with my Periodontist, do I still need to see my General Dentist?"

Absolutely, yes! Your periodontist may see you periodically for maintenance visits to help ensure your continued periodontal health, but you will still need to see your General Dentist regularly for new or recurrent cavities, changes in fillings, crowns, bridges, and many other conditions in which your General Dentist specializes. "What are the benefits of periodontal treatment?"

Periodontal treatment is an investment in your health. Treating periodontal problems will:

help you achieve a healthy mouth and smile help prevent gum deterioration and tooth loss help eliminate bad breath help your teeth last a lifetime!