Like most professions, it is broken down in a number of specialties. You would never expect a criminal lawyer for example to help you with succession planning nor would you allow a general practitioner to undertake delicate heart surgery. Dentistry is no different; it too is a profession that is broken into specialized areas, one of which is periodontal care.
What is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dental specialist that focuses on that which supports teeth; bone, gum and the tissues that support the teeth, basically everything that attaches and supports your teeth. These specialists are expert in diagnosing and treating gum disease and tooth implants.
The term “periodontal disease” covers a number gum disorders. These disorders are generally caused by plaque and tartar that forms around the teeth; this is caused by a lack of daily dental hygiene and the person’s immune system.
What does a periodontist do?
Obviously a periodontist treats patients that suffer from periodontal disease. To do this they use X-Rays to assess the condition of the bones under the gums. The most common periodontal disorders include:
* Gingivitis
* Bleeding gums
* Loose teeth
The periodontist in Chicago has a number of treatments and surgeries that he or she uses in the treatment of periodontal disorders:
* Root Planning and scaling: This procedure is used to remove bacteria and clean the pockets between teeth
* Gingivectomy: Thos procedure is used when it is necessary to repair a receding gum line
* Dental implants: Dental implants are prosthetic teeth, they look, feel and function exactly like regular teeth. The implant acts as a replacement tooth root, a crown is attached to the implant to form a fully functional replacement tooth.
Gum disease is the foremost cause of adult tooth loss. The best way to avoid periodontal disease is to maintain rigid oral care; brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for annual checkups.
A periodontist in Chicago is the dental specialist that deals with gum disease and dental implants. For further information and a complete checkup you are invited to make an early appointment with Dental Specialists of South Loop & North Shore.
