PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Who Is a Periodontist

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease such as scaling and root planing, soft tissue grafts and regenerative procedures. In addition, they can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire.
 
 A periodontist will evaluate your unique condition, and offer the treatment that is best for you; one that is supported by both science and experience. Your periodontist, Dr Mehta can also answer any questions that you may have about alternate treatment options.

Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when periodontal disease is present. However, you don't need a referral to see a periodontist. In fact, there are occasions when you may choose to go directly to a periodontist or to refer a family member or friend to periodontist.


Seeing a periodontist can help you keep your teeth for a lifetime, restore confidence in your smile and 

positively impact overall health.


Periodontal care is for everyone

When should I see a periodontist?

If you value your oral as well as overall health, anytime is a good time to see a periodontist for a periodontal evaluation. Sometimes the only way to detect periodontal disease is through a periodontal evaluation. A periodontal evaluation may be especially important if you:

 ✜Notice any symptoms of periodontal disease, including:

• Gums that bleed easily, such as during brushing or flossing

• Red, swollen or tender gums

• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

• Persistent bad breath

• Pus between the teeth and gums

• Loose or separating teeth

• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

✜ Are thinking of becoming pregnant.

About half of women experience “pregnancy gingivitis.” However, women who have good oral hygiene and have no gingivitis before pregnancy are very unlikely to experience this condition.

✜Have a family member with periodontal disease. Research suggests that the bacteria that cause periodontal disease can pass through saliva. This means the common contact of saliva in families puts children and couples at risk for contracting the periodontal disease of another family member.

✜ Have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis. Ongoing research is showing that periodontal disease may be linked to these conditions. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can travel into the blood stream and pose a threat to other parts of the body. Healthy gums may lead to a healthier body.

✜ Feel that your teeth are too short or that your smile is too “gummy.” Or, if you are missing one or more of your teeth and are interested in a long-lasting replacement option. are not satisfied with your current tooth replacement option, such as a bridge or dentures, and may be interested in dental implants.

✜ Have a sore or irritation in your mouth that does not get better within two weeks.