What Is A Periodontist?
Periodontists are specialists in the field of dentistry. Instead of focusing on the treatment of teeth as most dentists do, periodontists treat problems that arise in the gum tissue and underlying bone. The most common problem seen in the gum tissue and underlying bone is periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. As a result, a periodontist is a type of dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. While dentists treat the teeth, periodontists focus on the tissues that support the teeth.
Dr. Shaunda Thomas answers the question: What is a periodontist?
Areas of expertise
Periodontists are experts in the following treatments:
• Periodontal Maintenance (Periodontal Cleaning): Periodontal maintenance, also known as periodontal cleanings, is an essential element in the treatment of gum disease. Without regular periodontal cleanings, dormant gum disease will return, and existing gum disease will worsen. Periodontal maintenance treatment is so important because it provides periodontists with the opportunity to address gum disease problems before they worsen.
• Gum Disease Surgery: Periodontists perform gum disease surgery in cases where the patient’s periodontal disease or gum recession requires immediate intervention. Sacramento Periodontics is unique in this area because we offer both traditional periodontal surgery and LANAP laser gum surgery. Both periodontal treatments produce excellent results, but laser gum surgery involves less pain and recovery time.
• Dental Implants: Periodontists are responsible for placing the dental implant fixture. This fixture is placed into the jawbone and acts like the roots of a tooth in that it supports the crown and ensures that it stays in place. While there are several options for replacing missing teeth, dental implants provide the most natural experience.
• Cosmetic Dentistry: Periodontists also perform a variety of cosmetic dental procedures, such as crown lengthening, cosmetic gum grafts, and gingivectomy, that are designed to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, general dentists and orthodontists focus on the appearance and alignment of the teeth, while periodontists specialize in perfecting the appearance of the gum tissue.
Why schedule an appointment with a periodontist?
There are several reasons to schedule an appointment with a periodontist. Most importantly, a periodontist can assess your oral health situation and provide a treatment plan if you have any problems that need to be addressed. Periodontists can provide periodontal disease diagnosis and treatment, cosmetic dentistry assessment and treatment, advanced gum treatment, gum recession treatment, dental implants, jawbone health assessment and treatment, as well as other oral health and systemic health treatments.
Sacramento Periodontics is the periodontist for you
Sacramento Periodontics is unique when compared to other periodontal practices. Our periodontists and staff take the time to get to know you and your dental health history. We offer individualized dental consultations as well as sedation dentistry and LANAP laser dentistry. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve optimal oral health.